





*..*" 

''5'^^ 

•^ ^ 






\V 



^ %p^-".^ 









0°^.°* 

',^=?^-.-.'= 



v-^ 






/: 










V 




~ 
4' 




o 

^0 






,^^~/ ' 




X^^ 
^-^'"< 













' A^' 



.,G~'' 









-"■< - 











*> 




■^ ' • "' <^ 






•*.^*^ 



.\'.>' 


















^^ 







•^^ 



■x^'\ 



K^^' 



/ -.^ 



. ^^ 



•>\ .^ 



'^^^V^^ ,<i5^ '^^ *. 






'% 



V 









.&'% 



-^^'0* 



p-r 












>. 



s>' -J;. 



'^c 






^. *^ 



^<^. .->* 



The History of 

Orange County 

New York 






EDITED BY 

RUSSEL HhADLEY 



PUBLISHED BY 

VAN DEUSEN AND ELMS 

MIDDLETOWN. NBW YORK 

19 8 



0^ • 



^ 3 .3-V<3^-f 
/ 



PREFACE 

In presenting this new History of Orange County to the ])ubHc, we 
do so in the earnest hope that it will prove to be the most complete com- 
pilation of local chronicles that has up to this time been offered to our 
citizens. The authenticity of the facts contained in the various articles 
is as absolute as the utmost care could make it. The data have been 
procured from the best known authorities, and the sketches, when com- 
pleted, have been subjected to the most searching examination for veri- 
fication and correction. That no errors will be discovered in this pro- 
duction, is too much to hope for; but we do most certainly trust, that if 
any such errors there be. neither in number nor by their nature, will 
they be found to be sufficiently important to detract from that char- 
acter for reliability, which it has been our constant aim and endeavor to 
impart to this history. 

In this new work the design has been, to make clear the development 
of ideas and institutions from epoch to epoch ; the social and economic 
conditions of the people have been preserved in the narrative, and much 
attention has been paid to describing the civil characteristics of the 
several towns and cities, both in the conduct of their local affairs and also 
in relation to each other and the county at large. 

It is a well-known fact that considerable prejudice exists among a 
great body of the people toward county histories in general, for the reason 
that some such compilations in the past, have been composed of fact and 
fiction so intermingled, as to render it a difficult matter to know what 
was true and what was false. It has been our object in this work to 
hew straight to the line, satisfied to simply furnish such information as 
we were able to gather concerning each important matter or interesting 
event ; and where the desired materials were lacking, we have not at- 
tempted to supply that lack, by filling in the vacant niches with products 
of the imagination. We have not striven for effect, but our object is 
merely to give an authentic account of facts recent and remote, so dis- 
posed in a proper and orderly manner, as to enable our readers to clearly 
understand the history of their county from its origin down to the present 
dav. 



6 PREFACE. 

It is the limitation attached to all works devoted to general history, that 
from their very character only a superficial knowledge of the men and 
their times can be derived from them, while on the other hand, that which 
tfiey lack is supplied by local histories of this nature, whose great value 
in adding to the fund of human knowledge cannot be overestimated ; 
for they are the only mediums through which we can get the whole story 
of the economy of life, practiced by those men and women in every county 
in our broad land, which eventually resulted in transforming a wilderness 
into a garden, and from a weak and needy folk, creating a rich and 
mighty nation. It has long been recognized by every scholar, that the 
knowledge of such humble elements is absolutely essential, in order that 
the mind may intelligently grasp the potent factors which go to make 
up history. Hence, our correct understanding of the advancement and 
growth of a people varies in just such proportion as the narrative of their 
daily lives is full or incomplete. 

The history of our own county cannot be studied too often ; for it is 
one of great interest, and the record revealed is a proud one. There is no 
section of the country possessing more of historic interest, nor does one 
exist, as closely identified with those crucial events connected with the 
formative period of the Republic. In this county was held the last 
cantonment of the Revolutionary army, here Washington passed a large 
portion of his time, and within our borders he rendered his greatest ser- 
vice to our country. 

At the time the army went into winter quarters at Little Britain in 
1782, although peace was not declared vmtil the following year, yet it 
was well understood that the long war was over and the States were at 
last independent of Great Britain. The knowledge of this fact naturally 
inclined the minds of men to a consideration of the form of government 
to be adopted for the infant commonwealth, and now^iere did the matter 
receive more attention than in that encampment, and from those soldiers 
whose deeds in arms had made the happy consummation possible. 

The leisure entailed from the long relief from active duty which ensued 
after going into camp, afforded ample opportunity for both the officers 
and men of the army to discuss this question in all its bearings. It must 
be borne in mind that republics were not much in favor at that period, 
while the incompetent and discreditable manner in which Congress had 
conducted the national affairs for years, had created profound distrust 



PREFACE. 7 

and widespread discontent. Under the circumstances it is not so sur- 
prising that, beheving nothing but chaos and ruin would be the lot of the 
country should the form of government then in force be continued, the 
army should have finally declared for a limitcfl monarchy, and desired 
Washington as king. 

The deputation of Colonel Nicola to present the subject to Washington 
does not require repetition here, nor the details of the manner in which 
that great man resolutely put aside all feelings of personal ambition, and 
so sternly repressed the movement for all time, that our present form of 
free government became an assured fact. These events are merely men- 
tioned to bring vividly to the mind the recollection of the important 
connection our county sustained toward that great drama, and also to 
bring clearly home the fact, that even though the sun of liberty rose 
first from the green at Lexingtcn or the bridge at Concord, the gestation 
of the Republic occurred on the banks of the Hudson in the old county of 
Orange. 

Some criticism of this work has been occasioned through the inclusion 
therein of biographical sketches ; but we are certam that upon calm re- 
flection it will be seen that such objections rest upon no substantial 
foundation. The narratives of the lives of men and their acts constitute 
all there is of history. If it be true that all that our county shows in the 
way of growth and development, is entirely due to the men and women 
W'ho originall}' ]>eopled this region, and w^orthily performed those parts al- 
lotted to them in the general scheme of life, during their existence here, it 
is equally true that their successors who still abide with us. took up the 
burden where it fell from the hands of the fathers, aufl most signally 
continued the work, and carried it forward to success. If the works them- 
selves are deserving of commendation, surely the workers and finishers 
thereof are entitled to the honor of some mention. 

In sending forth this volume, we trust that in addition to its value as 
a depository of accurate information and useful knowledge, it will also 
prove an effective instrument in creating a more active public sentiment 
regarding historical subjects, and especially foster an interest in the an- 
nals of our own county. 

The editor would be wanting in gratitude did he fail to acknowledge 
his obligations to the well-known writer, the late Mr. Edward M. Rutten- 
ber. The whole historical field comprising that perio<l prior to the Revo- 



8 PREFACE. 

lutionary era, has been so carefully gleaned over by that indefatigable 
and accurate historiographer, that there remains little or nothing that 
is new, to reward any subsequent investigator into the history of that 
era, and therefore all who include that epoch in any sketch, must per- 
force draw largely from the store of valuable materials gathered by him. 
The editor also desires to return his sincere thanks to our numerous 
contributors, for their cheerful assistance, and especially for the pains- 
taking care exhibited by them in the preparation of those articles which 
appear herein, and whose excellence constitutes the chief merit of this 
work. 

That the efforts of myself and associates have fallen short of the high 
standard we had set up for ourselves at the inception of our labors, we 
are well aware ; but we do at least claim, that we have in some material 
degree, contributed in this volume to the "rescuing from oblivion and 
preserving the services which others have performed for God and country 
and fellow men." If the public by its verdi'-,t allows this claim to stand, 
our reward will be ample and we shall rest well content. 

RussEL Headley. 

Dated, July 14, .1908. 



22C 



CONTENTS 

PART I. 

CHAPTER 1-X PAGE 

The County of Orange 

CHAPTER XI. 
The Town of Blooming Grove By Benjamin C. Sears I30 

CHAPTER Xn. 

, ^, . ^ . By Frank nnrlan<I l4o 

The Town of Chester "> 

CHAPTER XHI. 

r ^ .11 Bv E. M. V. McClean ... .165 

The Town of Cornwall ^y ^■ 

CHAPTER XIV. 

^ r n (r.,-A Bv J. Erskine Ward . . i»3 

The Town of Crawford oy j. >^ 

CHAPTER XV. 

The Town of Deer Park 

CHAPTER XVI. 

-The Town of^Goshen, By George F. Gregg 

CHAPTER XVII. 

^ ^ •„„ Bv Charles E. Stickney 239 

The 1 own of Greenville ^y 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

r ,T *..„K„rorV, Bv Margaret Crawford Jackson 250 

The Town of Hamptonburgh oy ^*^'"« 

CHAPTER XIX. 

, „. ., ,, Bv Captain Theodore Fanrot 201 

The Town of Highlands ^^ ^ » 

CHAPTER XX. 

.,,.-•,. By Chrxrles E. Stickney 

Tho Town 01 \ri.iiMnk ^y 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Bv M. .\'. l<;i"«- -"^^ 

The Town of Monroe 

CHAPTER XXII. 

. , c Rv David A. Morrison 

71,.. -l,,vvr, ot Montcoinery ^y i^*'^'" ^• 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

-T Rv Wickham T. Shaw 

The Town of Mount Hope «> Wick nam 

C.IAPTER XXIV. 
Thf Town of Xewburgh i 



76 



301 



.•^25 



lo CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXV. page 

The City of Newburgh 348 

CHAPTER XXVI. 
The Town of New Windsor By Dr. C. A. Gorse 381 

CHAPTER XXVn. 
The Town of Tuxedo 397 

CHAPTER XXVHI. 
The Town of Wallkill By William B. Royce 405 

CHAPTER XXIX. 
The Town of Warwick By Ferdinand V. Sanford 427 

CHAPTER XXX. 
-The Town of Wawayanda , By Charles E. Stickney 454 

CHAPTER XXXI. 
The Town of Woodbury 460 

CHAPTER XXXII. 
The Bench and Bar By William Vanamee 466 

CHAPTER XXXIII. 
The Medical Profession By John T. Howell, M.D 560 

CHAPTER XXXIV. 
The Schools ^ By John M. Dolp'h 600 

CHAPTER XXXV. 
The Churches By Rev. Francis Washburn 623 

CHAPTER XXXVI. 
Agriculture By David A. Morrison 638 

CHAPTER XXXVII. 
Journalism By W. T. Doty 653 

CHAPTER XXXVIII. 
Freemasonry By Charles H. Halstead 736 

CHAPTER XXXIX. 
Horse Breeding By Guy Miller 751 

CHAPTER XL. 
Dairying 761 



PART II. 
Biographical Sketches 77^ 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 



CHAPTER I. 
COUNTY, PRECINCTS AND TOWNS. 

ORANGE was one of tlie earlic>t counties of the State, 'lating back 
to 1683. when it \\as organized by a colony law. It was ajso one 
of those foniied by a general act of organization in 1788. when 
it included the present county of Rockland, and was described as extend- 
ing from the limits of East anrl West Jersey on the west side of the Hud- 
son River along the river to ^Murderer's Creek, or the bounds of Ulster 
County, and westward into the woods as far as Delaware River — that is, 
all that part of the state south of an easterly and westerly line from the 
mouth of Murderer's Creek to the Delaware River or northerly line of 
Pennsylvania. In 1797 Rockland county was set off from it, and five 
towns from I'lster were added. Its boundaries were definitely fixed by 
an act of the New York legislature adopted April 3rd, 1801. The previ- 
ous act of April 5th, 1797. provided that five towns, then a part of the 
County of Ulster, should be annexed to the county of Orange, and thai 
the courts should hold their sessions alternately at Newburgh and Goshen. 
Two days afterward another act was passed defining the boundary lines 
of the towns composing the newly-constructed county, and naming them 
as follows: Blooming Grove, Chesekook, Deer Park. Go.shen. Minisink, 
Montgomery. New Windsor, Newburgh. Wallkill -wv] Warwick. There 
were subsequent changes, and the following is a list of the present towns, 
with the years of their erection, and the territories from which they were 
taken : 

Blooming Grove, 1799, taken from Cornwall; Cornwall. 1788. as New 
Cornwall, and changed to Cornwall in 1797; Chester, 1845. taken from 



i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Goshen, Warwick, Monroe and Blooming Grove; Crawford, 1823, taken 
from Montgomery; Deer Park, 1798, as a part of Ulster County and 
taken from Mamakating; Goshen, 1788; Hamptonburgh, 1830, taken 
from Wallkill, Goshen, Montgomery, Blooming Grove and New Windsor ; 
Monroe, 1799, taken from Cornwall, original name Chesekook, changed 
to Southfield in 1802, and to Monroe in 1808, and divided in 1890 into 
Woodbury and Tuxedo; Montgomery, 1788; Mount Hope, 1825, taken 
from Wallkill, Deer Park and Minisink, original name Calhoun; New- 
burgh, 1788; New Windsor, 1788; Wallkill, 1788; Minisink, 1788. 

There are three cities in Orange County, Newburgh in the town of 
Newburgh ; Middletown, in the town of Wallkill, and Port Jervis, in the 
town of Deer Park. Newburgh was chartered as a city in 1865, Middle- 
town in 1888, and Port Jervis in 1907. 

The irregular county thus constituted is bounded on the northwest and 
north by Sullivan and Ulster Counties, on the east and southeast by the 
Hudson River and Rockland County, on the southwest and west by New 
Jersey, Pennsylvania and Sullivan County. It has nearly half a million 
square miles. 

The towns along the northwestern and northern border are Deer Park, 
Mount Hope, Wallkill, Crawford, Montgomery and Newburgh. 

Along the Hudson are Newburgh, New Windsor, Cornwall and High- 
lands. 

Next to Rockland County are Highlands, Woodbury and Tuxedo. 

On the New Jersey line are the point of Tuxedo, Warwick, Minisink, 
Greenville, and a section of Deer Park. 

The most western town is Deer Park which lies along New Jersey, the 
Delaware River and Pennsylvania on the southwest and Sullivan County 
on the north. 

In the interior are the towns of Wawa\anda, Goshen, Hamptonburgh. 
Blooming Grove, Chester and Monroe. 

The postoffices of the county as distributed in the several towns are 
named as follovv's : 

Blooming Grove : Salisbury's Mills, Washingtonville, Blooming Grove, 
Oxford Depot, Craigsville. 

Chester : Chester, Greycourt, Sugar Loaf. 

Cornwall: Cornwall, Cornwall-on-Hudson, Cornwall Landing. Idle- 
wild, Mountainville, Orrs Mills, Meadowbrook, Firthcliffe. 



COUNTY, PRECINCTS AND TOWNS. 19 

Crawford : Bullville, Pine Bush, Thompson Ridge. 

Deer Park: Cuddebackville, Godeffroy, Huguenot, Port Jervis, Rio, 
Sparrowbush. 

Goshen : Goshen. 

Greenville : Greenville. 

Hamptonburgh : Campbell Hall, Burnside. 

Highlands: Highland Falls, Fort Montgomery, West Point. 

Middletown : Middletown. 

Minisink: Minisink, Johnson, Westtovvn, Unionville. 

Monroe: Monroe, Turner. 

Montgomery: Walden, Montgomery, Maybrook. 

Mount Hope : Otisville, Guymard. 

Nevvburgh : Newburgh, Middle Hope, Liptondale. Cedarcliff, Cro- 
nomer Valley, Savilton, Orange Lake, Roseton. 

New Windsor: Little Britain, Rocklet, Vail's Gate, Moodna. 

Tuxedo: Arden, Southfields, Tuxedo Park. 

Wallkill : Middletown, Circleville, Stony Ford, Howells Crystalrun, 
Fair Oaks. 

Warwick: Edenville, Warwick, Florida, Pine Island, New Milford, 
Wisner Lake, Bellvale, Greenwood Lake, Amity, 

Wawayanda: New Hampton, Ridgebury, Slate Hill, South Centreville. 

Woodbury: W^oodbury Falls, Highland Mills, Central V^alley. 

To go back and particularize more fully : In 1686 the town of Orange 
was organized, and soon afterward adjoining patents were attached to 
it for jurisdiction and assessment. In 1719 the northern settlements were 
separated into the precinct of Orange, with Tappan as its center, and the 
precinct of ITaverstraw. with "the <^7hristian patented lands of Haver- 
straw" as its center. In 1714 the precinct of Goshen was organized, and 
included the entire county except the Orangetown and Haverstraw dis- 
tricts. In 1764 it was divided by a straight line, all the lands west of the 
line constituting the precinct of Goshen and all the lands east, the pre- 
cinct of .X-ew Cornwall. The four precincts named were the political 
divisions of the county until after the Revolution. In 1788 the towns of 
Warwick and Minisink were erected from Goshen, and in 1791 the towns 
of Clarkstown and Ramapo were erected from Haverstraw. In 1797 the 
name of the town of New (^trnwall was change 1 to Cornwall. 

In the southern towns of the County of Ulster, afterward transferred 



20 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

to Orange, changes were made in 1709. The precincts of Highlands and 
Shawangiuik were attached to New Paltz, and^' th€ :.present Orange 
County towns of Montgomery, Crawford and Wallkill were then em- 
braced within its Hmits. These division^ continued until 1743, when they 
were changed to three precincts — Wallkill, Shawangunk and Highlancfs. 
There was also the precinct of Mainakating west of the precincts of 
Wallkill and Shawangunk, the northern part of which was made a part 
of Deer Park in 1798 by the law annexing the Ulster County towns. In 
1762 the precinct of Highlands was divided into the precincts of New- 
burgh and New Windsor, and in 1772 the precinct of Newburgh was 
divided so as to form another precinct on the north, named New Marl- 
borough. The same law divided the precinct of Wallkill so that its north- 
ern section became the precinct of Hanover. In 1782 the name of this 
precinct was changed to Montgomery by permission of the Provincial 
Convention of the State. By the general act of 1788 the Ulster County 
precincts which have been named were erected into the towns of New- 
burgh, New Windsor, New Marlborough, Shawangunk and Mont- 
gomery. 

In the winter of 1797, after much opposition to plans for changing the 
boundaries of Orange and Ulster Counties, two bills were agreed upon 
by a Convention of Delegates from the several towns interested, and these 
were presented to the Legislature and passed. One of them set off from 
Orange the present County of Rockland, and the other annexed to Orange 
Cotmty the towns of New Windsor, Newburgh, \\^allkill, Montgomery 
and Deer Park, then the southern section of the county of Ulster. 

In 1 801 a general law dividing the State into counties fixed the tlien 
somewhat undefined boimdaries of Orange, and another law adopted 
the same year fixed the boundaries of its towns as they now are, with 
the exception of Woodbury and Tuxedo, into which Monroe was sepa- 
rated in 1890. 

The first Board of Supervisors of the present county, which met in 
Goshen in 1798, was composed as follows: John Vail, Goshen; Francis 
Crawford, New Windsor ; Reuben Tooker, Newburgh ; Anselem Helme, 
Cornwall; Jacob Post, Warwick; Nathan Arnont, Minisink: James Finch. 
Deer Park; David Gallatin, Montgomery: Andrew McCord, Wallkill. 

Since that time the three towns of Greenville, Wawayanda and High- 
lands have been erected. 




9 



(0 

3 

no 

(0 



EAKL\ 1X1)1. \.\ CHARAC'H-:k AXl^ COXDL'CT 21 



CHAPTER II. 
EARLY INDIAN CHARACTER AND CONDUCT. 

AMONG the surprises experienced by Columbus and the e.xplurcrs 
who sailed up and down the coast of North America soon after 
his great discover)-, were the characteristics of the newly-found 
race of native Indians. Their tribal differences were comparatively slight, 
and although uncivilized, many of them exhibited traits which indicated 
a remote ancestry above savagery, and caused speculation which has not 
yet ceased. 

Hendrick Hudson, from whom the magnificent Hudson River takes 
its name, has given us in his journal the first information alx)ut the tribes 
at its mouth and along its shores. Sailing from Amsterdam in the ship 
Half-Moon in 1609, he first landed near Portland,* JMe., on July 19th. 
Thence he sailed south to Chesapeake Bay, thence north to Delaware Bay, 
and thence to Sandy Hook, anchoring, probably off Coney Island. Sep- 
tember 3(1. Here and on the New Jersey coast Indians came to the ship 
in canoes, and bartered green corn and dried currants for knives, beads 
and articles of clothing. He wrote that they behaved well, but when 
he sent out a boat on the 6th to explore the Narrows, his men were at- 
tacked by twenty-six natives in two canoes, who killed one of his crew 
with an arrow and wounded two others. On September nth he sailed 
through the Narrows and found a good protected harbor. Here his ship 
was again visited by many natives, who brought Indian corn, tobacco and 
oysters for barter, and (lisi)laycd copper pipes, copper ornaments, and 
earthen pots for cooking. 

Hudson started on his vo\age up the river September 12th. and began 
his return September 22d. His ship stopped near the present city of 
Hudson, but he proceeded much farther in a small boat — as far, it is 
supposed, as Albany. About 25 miles below Alba^iy an aged chief enter- 
tained him hospitablv. and the Indians oft'ered in barter tobacco and 

* To avoii! circnnilocution prestnt names will be generally iiseil fo imlicale localities. 



22 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

beaver skins. Here the Indians of the Hudson, and probably of all 
North America, first tested the white man's Hquor. Hudson gave them 
some to see how they would act under its influence. Only one drank 
enough to become intoxicated, and when he fell down in a stupor the 
others were alarmed, but after he became sober the next day their alarm 
ceased, and they manifested a friendly spirit. This was on the east side 
of the river. Below the Highlands on the west side the natives were of 
a different disposition, and shot arrows at the crew from points of land. 
For this they were punished by Hudson's men, who returned their fire 
and killed about a dozen of them. Hudson's journal says that above the 
Highlands "they found a very loving people and very old men, and were 
well used." One of his anchoring places had been the bay at Newburgh, 
and here he wrote prophetically : "This is a very pleasant place to build 
a town on," and the handsome and prosperous City of Newburgh shows 
that he judged well. At this point many more Indians boarded the ship, 
and did a brisk business in exchanging skins for knives and ornamental 
trifles. 

At several anchorages the Indians brought green corn to Hudson's 
ship, and it was one of the agreeable surprises of the crew at their meals. 
Com was generally cultivated by the Hudson River tribes, and grew 
luxuriantly. Ruttenber says it was long supposed to be native, but 
investigation shows it was transplanted from a foreign shore. It is cer- 
tain that the early explorers knew nothing of it until it was brought to 
them by the Indians, and that it had been cultivated by the latter from 
immemorial times. 

Hudson wrote that some of the Indians whom he met along the river 
wore mantles of feathers and good furs, and that women came to the ship 
with hemp, having red copper tobacco pipes and copper neck ornaments. 
Verrazano, who sailed along the North American coast 33 years after 
Hudson's expedition, said the Indians were dressed out in feathers of 
birds of various colors. He mentioned "two kings" who came aboard 
his ship in Narragansett Bay as "more beautiful in stature than can possi- 
bly be described," and characterized them as types of their race. One 
wore a deerskin around his body artificially wrought in damask colors. 
His hair was tied back in knots, and around his neck was a chain with 
stones of different colors. The natives who accompanied the chiefs were 
of middle stature, broad across the breast, strong in the arm? and well 



EARLY INDIAN CHARACTER AND CONDUCT 23 

formed. A litilc later Roger Williams was welcomed as a friend by an 
old chief, Canonnieus, and his nephew, and he described the Indians who 
accompanied them as of larger size than the whites, with tawny com- 
plexions, sharp faces, black hair, and mild, pleasant expressions. The 
women were graceful and beautiful, with tine countenances, and of 
modest appearance and manner. They wore no clothing, except orna- 
mental deer skins, like those of the men, but some had rich lynx skins 
on their arms, and various ornaments on their heads composed of braids 
of hair which hung upon their breasts. These Indians were generous 
in their disposition, "giving- away whatever they had." 

Later the Indians were classed from language into two general divi- 
sions — the Algonquins and the Iroquois — terms given them by the Jesuit 
missionaries. The Iroquois occupied central and western New York, 
including the ^Mohawk River, the headwaters of the Delaware, the Great 
Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. The Algonquins included all the In- 
dians of Eastern New York, Eastern Canada, New England, New Jersey, 
Eastern Pennsylvania, and Eastern Virginia. Several tribes in the west 
Hud.son River counties constituted the Lenni-Lenape nation, which held 
its council fires on the site of Philadelphia. Some of their names were 
Waoranecks, Haverstroos, IMinisinks and Waranawonkongs. When Hud- 
son came the Lenapes were the head of the Algonquin nations, but wars 
with the Iroquois and the whites so weakened them that they became 
the subjects of the Iroquois confederacy for eighty years previous to 1755. 
Then they rebelled, allied themselves with other tribes, Ix-camc the head 
of the western nations and successfully contested nearly all the territory 
west of the Mississippi. Dur-ng the period of their subserviency thev 
were known as the Delawares. The Mohawk^ were the most eastern 
nation of the Iroquois, and were called Maquas by the Dutch, and a 
branch on the Delaware, Minquas. The Iroquois, first known as the Five 
Nations, later received the Tuscaroras of North Carolina, who removed 
to New York, and with the Chcrokees and other southern Indians became 
the sixth nation of that great Indian confederacy, to which they also 
.were related by language. 

Both the Algonquin and Iroquois confederacies were divided into 
tribes and sub-tribes of families, each with a head who was the father or 
founder. These combined for mutual defense and the heads elected one 
of thc-r number chief sachem, regarding themselve^^ a^^ a nation to make 



24 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

laws, negotiate treaties, and engage in wars, the wars being mostly be- 
tween the Algonquins and Iroquois. 

The Esopus Indians occupied parts of Orange and Ulster Counties, and 
their war dances were held on the Dans Kamer. a high promontory north 
of Newburgh. Their rule extended to other families east and west of 
the Hudson, but their territory cannot be clearly defined. 

Regarding Indian character, there have been presented by our his- 
torians some contrasting but not wholly irreconcilable views. E. M. 
Ruttenber, in his valuable contribution to the History of Ulster County, 
edited by Hon. A. T. Clearwater, says : 

"When they were discovered the race had wrought out unaided a de- 
velopment far in advance of any of the old barbaric races of Europe. 
They were still in the age of stone, but entering upon the age of iron. 
Their implements were mainly of stone and flint and bone, yet they had 
learned the art of making copper pipes and ornaments. This would rank 
their civilization about with that of the Germans in the days of Tacitus 
(about the year 200 A.D.). They had, unaided by the civilization of Eu- 
rope, made great progress. , They had learned to weave cloth out of 
wild hemp and other grasses, and to extract dyes from vegetable sub- 
stances ; how to make earthen pots and kettles ; how to make large 
water casks from the bark of trees, as well as the lightest and fleetest 
canoes; h?d passed from the cave to the dwelling house; had established 
the family relation and democratic forms of government ; their wives were 
the most faithful, their young women the most brilliant in paint and gar- 
ments and robes of furs ; they carved figures on stone, and wrote the 
story of their lives in hieroglyphics, of which some of the finest speci- 
mens in America are preserved in the senate house in Kingston ; and most 
remarkable of all, and that which carries back their chronology to a 
period that cannot be defined, they had developed spoken languages that 
were rich in grammatical forms, differing radically from any of the 
ancient and modern languages of the old hemisphere, languages which 
were surely ingenious, and of which it was said by the most expert philol- 
ogists of Europe that they were among 'the most expressive languages, 
dead or living.' . . . Thev were savages or barbarians, as you may 
please to call them, men who wrote their vengeance in many scenes of 
blood, the recital of which around the firesides of the pioneers became 
more terrifving bv renetitimi ; nevertheless they were representatives of a 



EARI.^' IXDIAX CIIARACTKR AXI) COXDUCT 25 

race whose civilization, though it was 1200 years behind our own, had 
no faults greater than were found in the races from which we boast our 
lineage." 

In Samuel Eager's "History of Orange County," published in 1846-7, 
are found statements presenting a different conception of Indian quali- 
ties. It says : 

"The Indian character in this State is well known, and we have no 
reason to believe that the character of the Indians of Orange was mate- 
rially different. If you know one you know the general character of 
those who compose his wigwam, 'and knowing this you know that of his 
tribe. They are all alike— dirty, slothful and indolent, trustworthy and 
confiding in their friendships, while fierce and revengeful under other 
circumstances. Their good will and enmity are alike easily purchased. 
All have the war dance before starting upon and after returning from 
the warpath, and bury the dead standing, with their instruments." Their 
known rule of warfare is an indiscriminate massacre of men, women and 
children, and they are cruel to their captives, whom they usually slay 
with the tomahawk or burn up at the stake. They believe in a future 
state of rewards and punishments, and sacrifice to a Good Spirit — an un- 
known god. We have the testimony of Hendrick Hudson that the In- 
dians above the Highlands were kind and friendly to him and his crew, 
and the more so the further they proceeded up the river. This, we pre- 
sume, related to those on both sides of the river, though below the High- 
lands they were of a more hostile character. W'c have understood, as 
coming from the early settlers, who first located in Westchester and 
Dutchess and afterwards removed here, as many of them did. that the 
impression was very general that the Indians on that side of the river 
were less hostile and more friendly to the white settlers than those on the 
west; and this was given as a reason for settling there, which accounts in 
some measure for the earlier settlement of that side of the river. We 
infer, from the absence of written accounts of anything very peculiar 
or different in the habits and customs of the Indians of the county from 
others in the State, and from the poverty of tradition in this respect 
that there were no such peculiar dift'erences. but they were similar and 
iilentical with those of the heathen Indians at Onondaga and Buffalo be- 
fore modified and changed by white association." 
.These somewhat coutrndic tory views of the Indian race seem to be 



26 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

a little too sweeping on both sides, they being neither so good nor so bad 
as represented. The native Indians have been both kind and cruel to one 
another and the whites. Their instincts are not unlike those of civilized 
peoples, but there are less control and restraint in savagery than civiliza- 
tion. Their tribal differences of conduct towards the whites depended less 
upon natural disposition than leadership and provocations. Vindictiveness 
towards real or fancied enemies seems to have prevailed everywhere 
among the North American tribes, and this was undoubtedly increased 
towards the whites by the latter's aggressions and by the former's indul- 
gence in the intoxicants furnished them by their white neighbors. But 
cruelty is ingrained in the barbarian character almost everywhere, and 
often is manifested in communities called civilized. The tortures of the 
middle ages in the name of religion were as painful as those inflicted in 
the eighteenth century by our Indians, and both seem almost im- 
possible to the philanthropist of to-day. Not until minds have 
been softened by such teachings as those of the Founder of Chris- 
tianity, and extremes of bigotry have given place to tolerance and char- 
ity, is the natural disposition of the average man to give pain to 
antagonists dissipated. 

There has been no more intellectual nation among the aborigines of 
America than the Senecas of Western New York — the most original 
and determined of the confederated Iroquois — but its warriors were 
cruel like the others, and their squaws often assisted the men in torturing 
their captives. When Boyd and Parker were captured in the Genesee 
Valley in the Sullivan campaign of 1779, Brant, the famous half-breed 
chief, assured them that they would not be injured, yet left them in the 
hands of Little Beard, another chief, to do with as he would, and the 
prolonged tortures to which he and his savage companions subjected 
them were horrible. After they had been stripped and tied to trees, and 
tomahawks were thrown so as to just graze their heads, Parker was un- 
intenlionally hit so that his head was severed from his body, but Boyd was 
made to suffer lingering miseries. His ears were cut off, his mouth 
enlarged with knives and his severed nose thrust into it, pieces of flesh 
were cut from his shoulders and other parts of his body, an incision was 
made in his abdomen and an intestine fastened to the tree, when he was 
scourged to make him move around it, and finally as he neared death, was 
decapitated, and his head raised on a pole. 



EARLY INDIAN CHARACTER AND CONDUCT 27 

Similar tortures were not uncommon among both the Iroquois and 
Algonquins when they made captives of the whites. 

Returning to the Lenni-Lenape of the Hudson River's western lands, 
there is in Eager's history an account by a Delaware Indian of the recep- 
tion and welcome by the Indians of the first Europeans who came to 
their country — on York Island — whicli is here condensed. 

Some Indians out fishing at a place where the sea widens saw some- 
thing remarkably large floating on the water at a great distance, which 
caused much wondering speculation among them. The sight caused great 
excitement, and as it approached news was sent to scattered cliiefs. They 
fancied that it was a great house in which the Mannitto (Great Spirit) 
was coming to visit them. Meat for sacrifices and victuals were pre- 
pared. Conjurors were set to work, and runners were sent out. The 
latter soon re])orted that it was a great house full of human beings. When 
it came near it stopped, and a canoe came from it containing men, one 
elegantly dressed in red. This man saluted them with a friendly counten- 
ance, and, lost in admiration, the Indians returned his salute. They saw 
that he glittered with gold lace and had a white skin. He poured some- 
thing from a gourd into a cup. drank from it, filled it again, and handed 
it to a chief. It is passed around, and the chiefs smell of it, but do not 
drink. At last a resolute chief jumps up and harangues the others, saying 
that they ought to drink, as the ^lannitto had done, and he would dare to 
drink, although it might kill him, as it was better that one man should 
be destroyed than that a whole nation! should die. Th«n he drank, soon 
began to stagger, and finally fell to the ground. He fell asleep, and his 
companions thinking that he was dead, began to bemoan his fate. But 
he awoke, and declared that he had never before felt so happy as when 
he drank from the white man's cup. He asked for more, which was 
given him, and the whole assembly imitated him and became intoxicated. 
After they became sober they were given presents of beads, axes, hoes 
and stockings. Then the Dutch made them understand that they would 
not stay, but would come again in a year, bring more presents, and 
would then want a little land. They returned the next season, began cul- 
tivating the grounds and kept bargaining for more land until the Indians 
began to believe that they would soon want all the country. 

The scenes thus described by the Delaware Indian were probably soon 
after the vovagfe of discovery In- Hendrick Hudson. 



28 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The. Esopus Indians, according to early records, represented four sub- 
tribes — the Amangaricken, Kettyspowy, Mahon and Katatawis. In 1677' 
their chief deeded a large tract of land lying along the Hudson in Ulster 
and Orange Counties and extending back to the Rochester hills, to the 
English Government. The tract cannot be clearly defined. Previous 
negotiations and fighting led to this transfer. In 1663 Wildwijk (Kings- 
ton), where an infant colony had been started, was set on fire, and the 
colonists were attacked and murdered in their homes with axes, toma-' 
hawks and guns. They finally rallied and drove the Indians away, but not 
until twenty-five of them had been killed and forty-five made prisoners. 
The New Village, as it was called, was annihilated, and of the Old Village 
twelve houses were burned. When Peter Stuyvesant heard of the calamity 
he sent a company of soldiers from New Amsterdam to assist the settlers. 
They were commanded by Captain jMartin Kregier, arrived at Wildwijk 
July 4, and a few days afterward Kregier had a conference with five Mo- 
hawk and IMohican chiefs who came from Fort Orange. He induced them 
to release some of their captives, but his negotiations with the VVarrana- 
wonkongs were less successful. They were the proprietors of lands in 
the vicinity of Newburgh, and for some distance above and below the 
Lenni-Lenape confederacy. They would not agree to terms of peace 
unless the Dutch would pay for the land called the Groot Plat or Great 
Plot and add presents within ten days. Kregier would not agree to this,- 
and on July 25th followed them to their castle. They abandoned it, and 
fled to the Shawangunk Mountains, taking their captives with them. 
They were followed, and again retreated. Kregier burned their palisaded 
castle, cut down their cornfields and destroyed about a hundred pits full 
of corn and beans which were a part of the harvest of the previous year, 
'ihen Kregier returned to Wildwijk and guarded the settlers while they 
harvested their grain. He resumed ofiensive operations in September, 
sending out about fifty men to reduce a new castle which the Indians were 
building "about four hours beyond the one burned." The Indians were 
surprised, but fought fiercely as they retreated, killing and wounding 
three of the Dutch soldiers. Thirteen Indians were taken prisoners and 
twenty-three Dutch captives released. The Indians fled to the mountains, 
the uncompleted fort was destroyed, and the soldiers carried away much 
spoil. Another force was sent to the same place October ist, when the 
Indians retreated southward, and the Dutch completed the work of de- 



l■:.\kl.^■ INDIAN ( ii.\k.\rTi:K and (.ondict 29 

structioii. including crops and \vig\vani,> an)und the fori. Later the In- 
dians solicited peace and an armistice was granted. They had sutYered 
severely, and felt crushed, and their allies, the Waoranecks, were also 
subdued, although their lerritury had not been invaded. "The embers 
of their forest worship, which had for ages been lighted on the Dans 
Kamer, were extinguished forever." In the following May of 1664 they 
sought and executed a treaty with the Dulch at l<"ort Amsterdam, whereby 
the lands claimed and con{|uered by the Dutch were to remain the pro]i- 
erty of the conquerors, and the Indians were not to approach the Dutch 
settlements with arms. The ratification of the treaty was celebrated, and 
thus was closed the struggle of the Indians for the possession of their 
lands on the western slope of the Hudson from the Catskills to the 
ocean. The Minsis remained in the western part of Orange and some 
adjoining territory, and in i(m)2 and 1694 were strengthened by additions 
of large colonies of Shawanoes. For nearly a hundred years after the 
treaty there was but little trouble between the Indians and the settlers 
of Orange County. 

The incursions during the I'rench and Indian and the Revolutionary 
Wars properly belong to the military chapter of this history. 



30 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER HI. 
FIRST SETTLEMENTS AND SETTLERS. 

THERE is a tradition, supported by some evidence, that the first 
settlement of Orange County was in the old Minisink territory 
along the Delaware River. Although the supposed settlement 
was mostly in Pennsylvania, the reported excavations, roads and other 
work of the settlers were mostly in Orange County. The story of the 
tradition, and evidence that it has a basis of fact, are given in a letter 
by Samuel Preston, Esq., dated Stockport, June 6, 1828, which is pub- 
lished in Samuel W. Eager's county history of 1846-7, and reproduced in 
Charles E, Stickney's history of the Minisink region of 1867. Eager 
says the letter "will throw light upon the point of early settlement in the 
Minisink country," and Stickney assumes that its second-hand satements 
are substantially true. But Ruttenber and Clark's more complete history 
of the county, published in 1881, discredits them. The essential parts of 
Preston's letter are here condensed. 

He was deputed by John Lukens, surveyor general, to go into North- 
ampton County on his first surveying tour, and received from him, by 
way of instruction, a narrative respecting the settlements of Minisink on 
the Delaware above the Kittany and Blue Mountain. This stated that 
John Lukens and Nicholas Scull — the latter a famous surveyor, and the 
former his apprentice — were sent to the Minisink region in 1730 for the 
government of Philadelphia ; that the Minisink flats were tlien all settled 
by Hollanders ; that they found there a grove of apple trees much larger 
than any near Philadelphia, and that they came to the conclusion that 
the first settlement of Hollanders in Minisink was many years older than 
William Penn's charter. Samuel Depuis, who was living there, told them 
that there was a good road to Esopus, near Kingston, about a hundred 
miles from the Mineholes, which was called the Mine road. Preston was 
charged by Lukens to learn more particulars about this Mine road, and 
obtained some from Nicholas Depuis, son of Samuel, who was living in 
great affluence in a spacious stone house. He had known the Mine road 



FIRST SETTLL:.\11£XTS AXD SI£TTLEKS. 31 

well, an.l before a boat channel was opened to Foul Kilt, used to drive on 
It several times every winter with loads of wheat an.l cider to buy silt 
and other necessaries, as did also his neighbors. He repeated stories with 
out dates that he had heard from older people. They said that in some 
lormer aj-e a companv of mniers came there from Holland- that tliev 
worked two mines, and were very rich; that they built the Mine road 
with great labor, and hauled their ore over it; that they bought the im 
provements of the native Indians, the most of whom moved to the Sus- 
quehanna. 

In 1789 Preston began to build a house in the Minisink. and obtained 
more evidence from Gen. James Clinton, the father of Gov Dewitt Clin 
ton. and Christopher Tappan, Recorder of Ulster County, who came there 
on a surveying expedition. They both knew the Alineholes and the Mine 
road, and were of the opinion that they were worked while New York 
belonged to Holland, which was previous to 1664. Preston did not learn 
what kind of ore the mines produced, but concluded that it was silver He 
went to the Paaquarry Alineholes, and found the mouths caved full and 
overgrown with bushes, but giving evidence of a great deal of labor done 
there in some former time. 

Ruttenber and Clark's history, as stated, discredit the tradition regard- 
ing the early settlement of the Minisink bv HoUan.lers, as accepted by 
Clinton, lappan, Depuis, Preston and others. It represents the Mine 
road to be simply an enlargement of an old Indian trail, and the mines to 
have been of copper and locate<l in what is now the town of Warren 
Sussex County, X. J. It says that the Dutch at Esopus during the war 
of 1660-63 liad little knowledge of the countrv. even east of tlie Shawan- 
gunk, and that if the Alinisink was penetrated at a much earlier period it 
was by wav of the Delaware River. The historian discusses the subject 
further, and concludes that the first settler of the Minisink was William 
Tietsoort. a blacksmith from Schenectady, who barelv escaped the slaugh- 
ter at that place in 1689. and went to the Minisink countrv from I^-sopu. 
by invitation of friendly Indians, and purcha>ed lands of them in ( )ctoIx'r 
1689. "Ihere is little doubt that he was the first settler ,>n the western 
border," says the history. 

But Stickney. after recapitulating the traditions and evidence of the 
early settlement of the region. >ays : '"Here generations live.l the fleeting 
span of liie ni blissful i-norance of anv outer .m- happier world beside. 



T^2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and were alike unknown outside the boundaries of their own domain 
until some wanderer chanced to come across their settlement, and went on 
his way, thereafter to remember with gratitude and envy the affluence 
and comfort that marked their rough but happy homes." 

If Tietsoort was the first white settler of the Minisink, Arent Schuyler 
was probably the second, as he settled there in 1697, having been granted a 
patent of 1,000 acres of its lands by Governor Fletcher. The governor had 
sent him there three years before to ascertain whether the French in 
Canada had been trying to bribe the Indians to engage in a war of ex- 
termination against the New Yorkers from their fastnesses in the Shaw- 
angunk Mountains. 

The earliest land transfers and titles were so thoroughly investigated 
by Ruttenber and Clark that we cannot do better, perliaps, than condense 
mostly from their history. 

Warranawonkong chiefs transferred to Governor Stuyvesant the Groot 
Fiat or Great Plot, as it was called, in which Kingston is now situated. 
These lands are said to be the first for which Europeans received a title 
from the Indian^,-, and are somewhat indefinitely described in the treaty 
with them of 1665 to which reference has been made. They were con- 
quered by Captain Kreiger in 1663, and embraced three townships in 
southwestern Ulster. Chronology next takes us to the extreme south of 
Orange County. Here Balthazar DeHart and his brother Jacob, purchased 
of the Indians "the Christian patent lands of Haverstraw." They were 
on the south side of the Highlands and extended from the Hudson west- 
ward to the mountains. On the presumption that they were included in 
the boundaries of New Jersey, the Harts soon transferred them to Nich- 
olas Depues and Peter Jacobs Marius, and purchased another tract north 
of them in 1671, which was bounded by the Hudson River on the east 
and the mountains on the south. This became the property of Jacobs. 
They also purchased a tract north of the previous purchase, and including 
a part of it, which was called Abequerenoy, and passed from them to 
Hendrick Ryker. 

On the north a Huguenot, Louis Du Bois, with some friends who had 
been driven from France by religious persecution, located first at Esopus 
in 1660; and in September, 1667, after purchase from the Indians, twelve 
of them became patentees of a tract of 36,000 acres lying north of the 
Redonte Creek, as the Warranawonkong was then called. The patent was 






'■11 



n 





[•"ikST si'/rriJ-.Mi-.xrs axd si-.ti-ij-.ks. 



33 



obtained from Governor Andros in the names of l.ouis \)u IJois. Christian 
Doyan. Abraham Hasbroueq. Andre Le I-'ebYre. jean Ilasbroucq, Pierre 
Dovan. Louis lieviere, Antliony Crespel, Abraham l)u IJois, Hayne Frere. 
Isaac Du IJois and Simon Le Febvre, "tlieir lieirs and others." Nine 
fann'lics immethattly settled on ihe la'id and founded New I'altz. 

lletwecu I la\-crslra\v and New I'altz I'atriek Mac (jregorie. David 
I'Vjsbruck, his brother-in-law. and twenty-five others, who were mostly 
Sooteii Presbyterians, occupied lands at the moutii of the Waoraneck. and 
Mac Gregorie purchased for them 4,000 acres on both sides of Murderer's 
Creek, on which they settled. Mac Gregorie built his cabin on Plum Point, 
then called Conwanham's Hill, and the cabins of his associates were in 
the vicinity, and on the south side of the creek David Toshuck. the 
brother-in-law. who subscribed himself "Laird of Minivard." established 
a trading post. "Within the bounds of the present county of Orange this 
was the first European settlement," says the historian, but the precise 
<Iate is not given. Stickney thinks the year was 1684, but it was probably 
a little earlier, as about that time Mac Gregorie entered into the military 
service of the State without perfecting his patent, mistakenly trusting Gov- 
ernor Dongan to protect his interests, who, in 1684, obtained from three 
Indian owners their title to a tract extending from New P'altz along the 
Hudson to Murderer's Kill, thence westward to the foot of the high hills, 
and thence southwesterly along the hills and the river Peakadasank to a 
pond; and the same year added by deed from several Indians another 
large tract of the land called Havei straw. These lands included a part 
of those which the Indians had previously sold to Mac Gregorie, and 
others which they had sold to Stephanus \'an Cortlan.dt. The latter had 
preserved his deed, and succeeded in obtaining a i)atent attachmg them to 
h.is manor across the river. Mac Gregorie was killed in the Leslie revolu- 
tion of 1691. Governor Dongan sold his two purchases to John Evans in 
ir.94, and the latter then proceeded to disjxissess Mac Gregorie's widow 
and her family of their home, when he granted only leases to them and 
the other Scotch settlers. After some years, however, the Mac Gregorie 
heirs, in consideration of their original claim, obtained a patent of the 
Plum I'oint farm and a mountain tract. 

The fourth and largest settlement was made ;idjoining "the Chn-ii.ui 
patented lands of Haverstraw" by emigrants frciui Holland, mostly of 
the Keforme<l Dutch Church. They were grante 1 a towuslup p.itent \n 



34 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

March. 1686, under the name of the town of Orange. There were sixteen 
trustees of this grant, which began at the mouth of the Tappan Creek, ex- 
tended north to Greenbush, and thence easterly and southerly back to 
Tappan Creek. The center of the township was Tappan, where a church 
was organized. The trustees of the grant were Claessen Cuyper, Daniel 
De Clercke, Peter Harnich, Gerritt Stenmetts, John De Kries, Sr., John 
De Kries, Jr., Claes Maunde. John Stratemaker, Staaes De Groot, Aream 
Lammatees, Lamont Ariannius, Huybert Gerryts, Johannes Gerryts, Ede 
Van Vorst, Cornelius Lammerts. 

A vast tract of land immediately west of Haverstraw was conveyed to 
Daniel Honan and Michael Hawdon, January 25, 1696. Adjoining this on 
the south were certain tracts containing 2,000 acres which were granted 
to Samuel Bayard. The Indian deed for this and other purchases was 
covered by Lucas Tenhoven and embraced 100,000 acres, for Vv'hich no 
patent was issued. 

Between the Haverstraw lands and the township of Orange was the 
rocky bluff known as \'^erdrietig Hook, including Rockland Lake, which 
became the subject of controversy between the John Hutchins Company 
and Jarvis Marshal & Company, both parties having obtained deeds, but 
that of the latter proved to be of prior date (Sept. 27, 1694). A feu- 
years later, in 1708, a patent was issued to Lancaster Syrus, Robert 
Walters and Hendrick Ten Eyck, ' covering the vacant river point de- 
scribed as beginning at the south bounds of Haverstraw. extending west 
to Welch's island, thence southerly to the lower end of the island, thence 
east to the creek running from the pond of Verdrietig Hook, and thence 
north to the place of beginning, "except the grant of Honan & Hawdon." 

Ruttenber and Clark's history states that the indicated foregoing patents 
covered the entire district from the New Jersey line to New Paltz and 
west to the line of the Shawangunk Mountains. 

Here is the proper place for some statements made by David Barclay 
in his paper on Balmville read before the Newburgh Historical Society in 
1899. He said that Captain John Evans in 1694 obtained from Colonel 
Fletcher, then Governor of New York, a patent for a tract of land on 
the west shore of the Hudson, extending from Stony Point to the south 
line of New Paltz. and westward to the Shawangunk Mountains, including 
two-thirds of Orange County and parts of Ulster and Rockland Counties, 
and estimated to contain 650.000 acres. The only settlement thereon at 



FIRST SETTLl-LMKX TS AXD SETTLERS. 35 

that time was that of Major Gregorie's heirs and followers at Murderer's 
Creek in the present towns of Cornwall and New Windsor, The patent 
was afterward annulled by an act of the assembly, which was confirmed, 
and the title reverted to the crown. Included in these lands must have 
been those unjustly transferred to Evans in 1694 by Governor Dongan 
"under the title of the lordship of the manor of Fletcherdom." Ruttenber 
says that the Evans patents, with others, were for a long time a disturbing 
element, and were entirely undefined except in general terms. 

Near tlie close of the ijtli century there was active competition in the 
extinguishment of the Indian titles and obtaining patents, and several 
patents were granted. Three of them, to associations, were issued at the 
following dates: Chesekook, December 30, 1702; Wawayanda, March 5, 
1703; Minisink, August 28, 1704. 

The Chesekook patent was included in a purchase from five Inflian 
proprietors to Dr. John Bridges, Henry Ten Eyck, Derick Vandenburgh, 
[ohn Cholwell, Christopher Dean, Lancaster Syms and John Merriit. The 
Wawayanda patent was a purchase from twelve Indians by the same 
parties, and five more, namely, Daniel Honan, Philip Rokeby, Benjamin 
Aske, Peter Mathews and Cornelius Christianse. The Minisink patent 
was to Mathew Ling, Ebenezer Wilson, Philip French, Derick Vanden- 
burgh, Stephen De Lancey, Philip Rokeby, John Corbett, Daniel Honan, 
Caleb Cooper, William Sharpass, Robert Milward, Thomas Wearham, 
Lancaster Syms, John Pearson, Benjamin Aske, Pctrus Bayard, John 
Cholwell, Peter Fanconier, Henry Swift, Hendrick Ten Eyck, Jarvis 
Marshall, Ann Bridges, George Clark. 

This last purchase was of parts of Orange and Ulster Counties, begin- 
ning in Ulster at Hunting House, on the northeast of Bashe's land, run- 
ning thence north to the Fishkill River, thence southerly to the south end 
of Great Minisink Island, thence south to the land granted John Bridges 
& Company (Wawayanda), and along that patent northward and along 
the patent of John Evans to the place of beginning. There is no record 
that the purchasers received a deed from the Indians, and it was re- 
porter!, probably correctly, that when Depuis obtained the Minisink lands 
from the Indians, he got them drunk and never paid them the money 
agreed upon — treatment which they resented for a long time afterward 
in hostility to the white settlers. 

The Chesekook patent was bounded north by the patent line of Evans, 



36 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

west by Highland Hills, south by Honan and Hawdon's patent, and east 
by "the lands of the bounds of Haverstraw and the Hudson." 

The Wawayanda patent was bounded eastward by "the high hills of 
the Highlands" and the Evans patent, north by the division line of the 
counties of Orange and Ulster, westward by "the high hills eastward of 
Minisink" and south by the division line of New York and New Jersey. 

The boundary lines of the three patents w^ere defined in such general 
terms that for a long time they caused trouble as to titles, and in the 
final adjustment the territory claimed by the Wawayanda patentees was 
cut o&, while on the west a tract called the Minisink angle, embracing 
130,000 acres, was formed. 

The English government began investigating the patents of such im- 
mense tracts in 1698, and the next year caused the Evans patent to be 
annulled, after which the territory covered by it was conveyed in small 
tracts issued at different times up to 1775. These conveyances, exclusive 
of those outside of the present county, were as follows : 

1. Roger and Pinhorne Mompesson, 1000 acres, March 4th, 1709. 

2. Ebenezer Wilson and Benjamin Aske, 2000 acres, March 7th, 1709. 

3. Rip Van Dam, Adolph Phillipse, David Provost, Jr., Lancaster Symes and 

Thomas Jones, 3000 acres, March 23. 1709. 

4. Gerardus Beekman, Rip Van Dam, Adolph PhilHpse, Garrett Brass, Servas 

Vleerborne, and Daniel Van Vore, 3000 acres, March 24th, 1709. 

5. Peter Matthews, William Sharpas, and William Davis, 2000 acres, Sept. 8th, 

1709. 

6. William Chambers and William Southerland, 1000 acres, Sept. 22, 1709. 

7. Samuel Staats, June 5th, 1712. 

8. Henry Wileman and Henry Van Bael, 3000 acres, June 30th, 1712. 

9. Archibald Kennedy, 1200 acres, Aug. nth, 1715. 

10. Alexander Baird, Abner Van Vlacque, and Hermanus Johnson, 6000 acres, 

Feb. 28th, 1716. 

11. Jeremiah Schuyler, Jacobus Van Courlandt, Frederick Phillipse, William 

Sharpas, and Isaac Bobbin, loooo acres, Jan. 22d, 17 19. 

12. Fdward Gatehouse, 1000 acres, Jan. 22, 1719. 

13. Cornelius Low, Gerard Schuyler, and John Schuyler, 3292 acres, March T7th, 

1719. 

14. Thomas Brazier, 2000 acres, March 17th, 1719. 

15. Phineas Mcintosh, 2000 acres, April 9th, 1719. 

16. John Lawrence, 2772 acres, April 9th, 1719. 

17. John Haskell, 2000 acres, April 9th, 1719. 

18. James Alexander, 2000 acres, April 9th, 1719. 

19. Cadwallader Colden, 2000 acres, April 9th, 17 19. 

20. David Galatian, 1000 acres, June 4th, 1719. 

21. Patrick McKnight, 2000 acres, July "th, 1719. 

22. Andrew Johnston, 2000 acres, July 7th, 1719. 

23. Melchoir Gilles, 300 acres, Oct. 8th, 1719. 

24. German Patent, 2190 acres, Dec. 18th, 1719. 

25. John Johnston, Jr., two tracts, Feb. 3d, 1720. 




Thomas Darlington, Esq. 





/-^i^n^^^ ><y/^^-«>^^^u^^/l- 



j-iRST settli:mi:.\j"s and settlers. 2,7 

26. Tlionias \oxon, 2000 acres, May 2Sth, 1720. 

27. William Iluddk-ston, 2000 acres, Juno 2d, 1720. 

28. Vincent Matthews, 800 acres, Jime I7tli, 1720. 

29. Richard Van Dam, 1000 acres, June jotji, 1720. 

30. Francis Harrison, Oliver Schuyler, and Allen Jarratt, 5000 acres, July 7th, 1720. 

31. Phillip Schuyler, Johannes Lansing, Jr., Henry Wileman, and Jacobus Bruyn, 

8000 acres, July 7th, 1720. 

^2. Patrick ALicGrcgorie, two tracts, 660 acres, Aug. 6th, 1720. 

a. Mary Ingoldsby and her daughter, Mary Pinhorne, and Mary Pinhornc and 

\Vm. Pinhorne, her children, two tracts, 5360 acres, Aug. nth, 1720. 

34. Jacobus Kipp, John Cruger, Phillip Cortland, David Provost, Oliver Schuyler, 

and John Schuyler, 7000 acres, Oct. 17th, 1720. 

35. Lewis Morris and Vincent Pearce, two tracts, 1000 acres each, July 21st, 1721. 
T^. John Haskell, 2000 acres, August 24th, 1721. 

37. Patrick Hume, 2000 acres, Nov. 29th, 1721. 

38. James Henderson, two tracts, one not located, 1600 acres, Feb. 12th, 1722. 

39. Jacobus Bruyn and Henry Wileman, 2500 acres, April 25th, 1722. 

40. James Smith, 2000 acres, Dec. 15th, 1722. 

41. Charles Congreve, 800 acres. May 17th, 1722. 

42. Ann Hoaglandt, 2000 acres. May 24th, 1723. 

43. Francis Harrison, Mary Tathani, Thomas Brazier, James (iraham, and John 

Haskell, 5600 acres, July loth, 1714. 

44. William Bull and Richard Gerrard, 2600 acres, Aug. lOth, 1723. 

45. William Bull and Richard Gerrard, two tracts, 1500 acres, Dec. 14th, 1724. 

46. Isaac Bobbin, 600 acres, March 28th, 1726. 

47. Edward Blagg and Johannes Hey, two tracts, 2000 acres each, March 28th, 

1726. 

48. Nathaniel Hazard and Joseph Sackett, two tracts, 4C00 acres, Jan. nth, 1727. 

49. William Bradford, 2000 acres, Sept. ist, 1727. 

50. John Spratt and Andries Marschalk, 2000 acres, April 12th, 1728. 

51. James Wallace, 2000 acres, March 2d, 1731. 

■-52. Gabriel and William Ludlow, six tracts, 4000 acres, Oct. i8th, 1731. 

53. Thomas Smith, 1000 acres. May 8th, 1732. 

54. Daniel Everett and James Stringhani, 3850 acres, Jan. 17th, 1736. 

55. Elizabetli Dennc, 1140 acres, Dec. 12th, 1734. 

56. Joseph Sackett and Joseph Sackett, Jr., two tracts, 2000 acres, July 7th, 1736. 

57. Nathaniel Hazard, Jr., 2000 acres, Aug. I2th, 1736. 

58. Thomas Ellison, three tracts, 2000 acres. May 13th, 1737. 

59. Joseph Sackett, five tracts, 2000 acres, Sept. ist, 1737. 

60. Ann, Sarah, Catherine, George, Elizabeth, and Mary Bradley, two tracts, 4690 

acres, Oct. 14th, 1749. 

61. Cornelius DuBois, two tracts, one not located, July 2d. 1739. 

62. Richard Bradley, 800 acres. May 17th, 1743. 

63. Jane and Alice Colden, two tracts, 4000 acres, Oct. 30th, 1749. 

64. John Moore, 280 acres, Oct. 30th, 1749. 

65. Peter Van Burgh Livingston and John Provost, 3000 acres. May 26th, 1750. 

66. George Harrison, three tracts, 2000 acres, July 20th, 1750. 

6y. Jacobus Bruyn and George Murray, 4000 acres, Sept. 26th, 1750. 

68. Thomas Ellison and Lawrence Roome, six tracts, 4000 acres, Nov. 12th. 1750 

69. Alexander Phoenix and Abraham Bockel, 1000 acres, July 13th, 1751. 

70. Thomas Ellison, 1080 acres, Dec. ist, 1753. 

71. John Nelson, 550 acres. Oct. 4th, 1754. 

72. James Crawford, Jr., Samuel Crawford, James White, and David Crawford, 

4000 acres, May 17th, 1761. 

73. Cadwallader Colden. Jr., and Daniel Colden, 720 acres. June 20th, 1761. 



38 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

74. Vincent and David Matthews, 1800 acres, Nov. 26th, 1761. 

75. John Nelson, 1265 acres, Oct. 4th, 1762. 

76. Thomas Moore and Lewis Pintard, 2000 acres, Dec. 23,d, 1762. 
TJ. Peter Hassenclever, March 2Sth, 1767. 

78. William Smith and Edward Wilkin, 2000 acres, April 17th, 1768. 

79. William Arisen and Archibald Breckenridge, 400 acres, 1770. 

80. Daniel Horsemanden, Miles Sherbrook, Samuel Camfield, and William Sid- 

ney, 3210 acres, 1772. 

81. Thomas Moore and John Osborne, 2000 acres, March 14th, 1775. 

82. Henry Townsend, 2000 acres. 

Only a small part of the Minisink patent was in the present county of 
Orange, but the Wawayanda and Chesekook patents were wholly within 
its limits, and covered its most fertile sections. The Wawayanda patent 
.caused much trouble, and was unoccupied by settlers until 171 2, when tlie 
surviving shareholders — Christopher Denne, Daniel Cromeline and Benja- 
min Aske — determined to make settlements thereon, and to facilitate their 
ends were made justices of the peace. Parties were sent out by each of 
them, and these began the settlements of Goshen, Warwick and Chester, 
where houses were soon completed and occupied. The agent who pre- 
ceded Denne into the wilderness was his adopted daughter, Sarah Wells, 
then only 16 years old, who was accompanied only by friendly Indian 
guides. She married William Bull, the builder of Cromeline's house, and 
lived to the great age of 102 years and 15 days. 

Soon after the settlement thus started in 1712 John Everett and Samuel 
Clowes, of Jamaica, L, I., took charge of the patent, and proved to be 
enterprising and efficient agents. Recorded sales to settlers and others 
prior to 1721, as well as to Everett and Clowes, were as follows: 

1. Philip Rokeby sold his undivided twelfth part to Daniel Cromeline, John 
Merritt, and Elias Boudinot, June loth, 1704. Merritt sold his third to Cromeline 
in 1705. Boudinot sold his third to George McNish, who sold to Clowes, Feb. Sth, 
1714, for £150. 

2. Cornelius Christianse sold to Derrick Vandenburgh, Sept. 8th, 1704, all his 
twelfth part. Vandenburgh sold to Elias Boudinot, and the latter sold one-sixth 
of same to Everett and Clowes, July 20th, 1714, for i66 13s. Boudinot's heirs sub- 
sequently sold five-sixths to Everett and Clowes for £41 13s. 4d. This tract em- 
braced New Milford, in the present town of Warwick. 

3. Hendrick Ten Eyck sold his twelfth part to Daniel Cromeline, Dec. 8th, 1704. 
Cromeline, who also owned two-thirds of the Rokeby share, sold to Everett and 
Clowes, Jan. ist, 1714, the sixth part of his interest for £83 6s., excepting two 
tracts, one of which contained three thousand seven hundred and six acres. This 
tract was principally in the present town of Chester, and embraced the site on 
which he had made settlement and erected a stone dwelling, and to which he had 
given the name of "Gray Count." 

4. Ann Bridges sold to John Van Home, merchant, of New York, July 4th, 1705, 




:q 



u 
o 

a 



o 

J 



FIRST SETTLEMENTS AND SETTLERS. 



39 



all the equal undivided twelfth part held by her husband, Dr. John Bridges for the 
sum of £250. Van Home was also the purchaser of a part or the whole o another 

Da?['foTl8°6s ?d S'.v"^ Clowes one-sixth part of one-sixth of one-thrr"een 1 
part lor tso os. jsd. Amity was m Bridges s parcel 

5- Daniel Honan sold to John xMerritt, 1705, all his twelfth part. Margery Mer- 
ritt widow, and John Merritt, son, sold to Adrian lloaglandt one-half and to 
Anthony Rutgers one-half. Rutgers sold to Everett and^'lowes one twelfth ^f 
letter! ApnlitTA'/forVs "°^e'^"^^' '^^^ '^ ^^^^ ^'''"^^ Pities one-twelfth, thl 

6 Derrick Vandeiiburgh died holding his original share, and his wife, Rymerich 
and h.s son Henry, his heirs, sold the same to Elias Boudinot. Aug 8471707 
Boudinot sold his entire share to Clowes, Oct. 27th, 1713. for £355 This oa reel 
embraced what is called m the old deeds the "Florida (ract;" the 'name 'TlJrida" 
15 siiii rcLHiiicci. 

7. John Chohvell sold his twelfth part to Adrian Hoaglandt, Oct. 5th, 1706 for 
£350. Anna Hoaglandt, his widow, sold to Everett and Clowes one-siith of the 
share, and the remainder descended to Christopher Banker and Elizabeth his wife 
h?;"hdr^'"''" ^''^ ^' ''''^'' ''"'^ ^'*"'' ^"^eers and Helena his wife,' 

8. John Merritt held his share at the time of his death, and his heirs, Margery 
flT m ''' '""i"^ Joh" Merritt, eldest son, sold one-half to Adrian Hoaglandt 
John (then a resident of New London) sold to John Everett, Feb. 2Sth 1714 the 
remaining half for ii20. ^ ' ' ^' 

9. Benjamin Aske sold to Everett and Clowes, July 20th, 1714, one-sixth of his 
thirteen h part for £50 He subsequently sold a portion to LawJ^nce Decker? Feb 
28th, 1,19, another to Thomas Blain, May 20th, 1721 ; and another to Thomas De- 
Kay, Dec. 8th 1724. In all cases the land conveyed is described as part of his 
farm, called \\ arwick and in all cases the parties to whom the deeds were made 
were described as residents of the county and upon the land conveyed 

his°thiJi:eSr;arff"?^i50.'' '' ^^"^^^^ ^"^ ^^°^^-^^' ^''^ --'^- ^^14, one-sixth of 

11. Peter Matthew-s, then living in Albany, sold all his thirteenth part to Clowes 
reb. nth, 1713, for £200. *^ v-»">to, 

12. Christopher Denne sold, July 20th. 1714. to Clowes an.l Everett one-sixth of 
his share for £50. He also sold to Robert Brown three hundred and tenacres 
bept. 3rd, 1721. Elizabeth Denne sold to William Mapes, Joseph Allison Tohn 
Yelverton, Ebenezer Holley, Joseph Sears, John Green, and John Worlev, theAIapes 
deed bearing date March ist, 1729. The remainder of her interest in the patent 
passed by her will to Sarah Jones, spinster, of New York, and Vincent Matthews 
Sarah Jones afterwards married Thomas Brown. 

13. Dr. Samuel Staat's thirteenth part descended to his children, Gerturv wife 
of Andries Codymus; Sarah, wife of Isaac Gouverneur; Catalyria wife of Ste- 
vanus Van Cortlandt ; Anna, wife of Philip Schuyler; Johanna White, widow 
and Iryntie Staats, who sold to Clowes and Everett one-sixth of said nart for 
£50, Sept. 2, 1720. ^ 

By these conveyances Everett and Clowes came into possession of lands 
equaling four of the thirteen parts, and, as required by the terms of tlieir 
deeds, laid out the township of Go.shen in 17 14. divichng it into farms and 
opening roads, and assigned 200 acres of land for the support of a min- 
ister. 

Some of the first settler'^— tliose of i7i4_xvcrc:- ^Tichael Dimninf^ 



40 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Johannes Wesner, Solomon Carpenter, Abraham Finch, Samuel Seeley 
and John Holley. 

The most prolonged and bitter contest of titles was between settlers of 
Orange County, mostly in the original Minisink region, and settlers of 
Northern New Jersey. This was continued for sixty-seven years with 
occasional border frays. The dispute had reference to the boundary line 
between New York and New Jersey. King Charles II of England in 
March, 1663, gave to his brother, the Duke of York, a patent of all lands 
"from the west side of the Connecticut River to the east side of Delaware 
Bay." The following year in June the Duke of York granted release of all 
the territory now known as New Jerse\- to Lord Berkley and Sir George 
Carteret. The northern line as described in this grant extended from 
"the northwardmost branch" of the Delaware River, "which is in latitude 

41 degrees 40 minutes and crosseth over thence in a straight line to the 
latitude 41 degrees on Hudson's River." Sir Carteret took the east half 
.of the province and Lord Berkley the west half. In 1673 the Dutch 
reconquered New York from the English, but on February 9, 1674, in a 
treaty of peace between the two nations, it was restored to England. Sir 
Carteret immediatcl}' took the precaution to have a new patent made out, 
which defined the boundaries in about the same general terms as before. 
Then came controversies as to whicli should be called "the northwardmost 
branch" of the Delaware. The point of 41 degrees on the Hudson was 
agreed to, but the New Y^orkers insisted that the line should touch the 
Delaware at the southern extremity of Big Minisink island, and the Jer- 
seymen that the point should be a little south of the present Cochecton. 
This difference made the disputed triangular territory several miles wide 
at the west end. Under the New Jersey government the land was parceled 
out in tracts to various persons, and when these came to take possession 
the men who had settled upon them long before, resolutely maintained 
their claims. In the border war that resulted numbers of the Minisink 
people were captured and confined in New Jersey prisons. The first 
series of engagements resulted from efforts to obtain possession of the 
lands of a Mr. Swartout,, who was a major in the militia of Orange 
County. One day the Jersey men surprised him and put his family and 
household goods out doors. He went to Goshen for help, and a formid- 
able company returning back with him, they in turn put the New Jersey 
occupants and their goods out of the house, and restored it to the major. 



FIRST SETTLE.MI-XTS AND SETTLERS. 41 

'ilieii a spy was employed to watch the Jerscymcii. ami ihrouj^h the iiiiDr- 
mation which he continually fuinished, their future operations were gen- 
erally frustrated. Ahout 1740 the "Jersey lilues" made another attempt 
upon the major and his possessions, but they were anticij^ated and driven 
or frightened back, no one, however, being killed. In 1753 a [ersey raid 
was made to get possession of the lands of Thomas De Key, colonel of 
the Orange County militia and a justice of the peace. He tried to nego- 
tiate with them, and induce them to wait until the boundary question was 
determined, but they refused, and he then barricaded himself in his house, 
and threatened to shoot the first man who tried to enter, and they finally 
retired vowing that the\ would bring a larger force. The last important 
raid was in 17^)5. on a Sunday, when the Jerseymen came in considerable 
torce resolved to capture Major and Captain Westbrook. Thev sur- 
rounded the church where the Westbrooks were worshiping, and when 
the service was over there was a fight, amid the screams and sobs of 
women, with fists and feet, in which the Jerseymen, being the more nu- 
merous, conquered and captured the \\'estbrcx)ks. They were confined 
in the Jersey colon}' prison awhile, and then released. 

In 1767 hostilities were suspended, and commissioners were appointed 
to run a boundary line, and soon afterward the territory was surveyed, 
and about e(|ually divided between the claimants, ami j)eace thenceforth 
was established between the two sections. 

In 1683, when the county was organized, it did not contain more than 
twenty families. In 1698 a first census was ordered by Governor Rellmont. 
and it showed the po])uIation to consist of 20 men. 31 women. 140 children 
and 19 negro slaves. In i860 the population had increased to 63.812; in 
1880. it was f<H.22o: in Kjoo. io3.85(). and according to the last census of 
TO05. our population was 108,267. 



42 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER IV. 
TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY. 

ORANGE County is unsurpassed by any other in the Empire State 
in variety of surface features and picturesque beauty of scenery. 
It has mountain ranges and extended ridges, streams with wide 
and narrow valleys, and is dotted with lakes and ponds. Along the 
mountain lines are a few lofty peaks, and there are many isolated hills 
and rocky precipices. Parts of its boundaries are the Hudson River on 
the northeast, the Delaware and Mongaup Rivers on the west, and the 
Shawangunk Kill on the northwest. Near the center the Wallkill winds 
along its rich valley into Ulster County, and thence into the Hudson. Its 
principal tributary on the northwest is Rutgers Creek — which also has 
several tributaries — and others are Monhagen Creek, Mechanicstown 
Creek and, Shawangunk Kill. On the southwest it gathers in the waters 
of Warwick Creek — which is swollen by smaller streams in its course — 
and also Quaker, Rio Grande, and Tin Brook Creeks. The Otterkill 
flows easterly from Chester into the Hudson. The Neversink flows from 
Sullivan County through the town of Deer Park, and becomes a tributary 
of the Hudson. The course of the Ramapo is southerly from Round 
Pond in Monroe to Rockland County, and it is fed by several other ponds. 
Other streams^ large and small, are numerous. 

The central portion of the count}^ consists of rolling uplands broken 
by deep valleys. The most prominent of the mountain ranges are the 
Highlands along its eastern border. Their loftiest peak. Butter Hill, is 
1,524 feet high, precipitous on the river side, and sloping on the north. 
Another name given to it is Storm King, because clouds occasionally 
gather there from different directions and concentrate in storms of rain 
and lightning. Cro'-nest adjoins it on the south, and is 1,418 feet above 
the Hudson. Bare Mountain is next, with a height of 1,350 feet. Mount 
Independence, with Fort Putnam on its summit, is the background of 
the West Point plateau. Other well known hills are in this broken range, 
where Arnold, the traitor, conferred with Andre, the spy, and is more 




J 



TOPOGKAl'ilV AXU GEOLOGY. 43 

intimately idcnliticd with the military history of tJK cotintry than any 
other mountain region. It has been written of Butter Hill and Cro-nest 
that "they have a charm which might induce a man to live in their shadow 
for no other purpose than to have them always before him, dav and night. 
to study their ever-changing beauty." 

The Shawangunk Mountains are a spur of the Alleghanies stretching 
northeast across the western angle of the county. They are less broken 
than the Highlands, and not so high as the Catskills, but of the same" 
general formation. The western side is precipitous, but the eastern is 
sloping, and some of its lands are ver>' fertile, producing sweet grasses 
from which much of the famous Orange County butter has been made. 
The peaks rise from 1,400 to 1,800 feet above tide water. This range 
was the original dividing line between the Wawayanda and Chesekook 
patents. 

The Schunemunk range is on the dividing line of the towns of Monroe 
and Blooming Grove and a part of that of Blooming Grove and Corn- 
wall. An accepted descriptive phrase for the range is, "the high hills 
west of the Highlands." North of it, in New Windsor and Xewburgh, 
is Muchattoes hill, west of it Woodcock hill, and southwest of the latter 
are Round, Mosquito, Rainer's and Peddler's hills ; also Torn Rocks, 
which rise in two rocky peaks 200 feet high. To the southwest, in the 
town of Warwick, are the Bellvale Mountains, and south of these the 
Sterling Mountains. Several other mountainous elevations in Warwick 
and Woodbury punctuate this part of the county and also the border 
country on the west. The feet of Pochuck Mountain are in the Drowned 
Lands, and northerly in Warwick are Mounts Adam and Eve, with Adam 
looking down from his superior height upon the longer Eve. Easterly, 
in Chester, is Sugar Loaf ^Mountain, and west of this is Mount Lookout, 
the principal elevation of Goshen. With the further mention of Mount 
William and Point Peter, looking down ui)on Port Jervis. let us clip the 
long list of Orange County elevations. 

\ alleys connect mountains and hills. That of the Delaware River, 
along the border of Deer Park, is narrow and irregulai, being much 
broken by tributaries and mountains. The most of the cultivated lan<l- 
of Deer Park are along the Neversink valley. The valley of the Wallkill 
is wide, fertile and beautiful Its bottom latids are among the best in the 
State, and its farmers are prosperous and thrifty. Wide flaU. gradual 



44 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

slopes and steep decliviaes g-ive variety of soil and scenery to the Otter- 
kill valley, and much of its scenery is charming. The same may be said 
of its tributary, Cromeline Creek. Sugar Loaf valley extends from 
Sugar Loaf Mountain to the village of Warwick, taking in Wickham 
Pond in its course, and extending into New Jersey. Smith's Clove, 
extending from Highland Mills to the Ramapo valley, should be men- 
tioned because it was the birthplace of Chief Justice William Smith, his 
brother, John Hett Smith, and the notorious tories, Claudius Smith and 
his two sons. 

One cannot travel far in Orange County in most directions without 
coming upon a lake or a pond, and there are dozens of them in the south- 
eastern section. These feed its many streams, and when Eager wrote his 
history he said there was not one town in the county that had not water 
power to some extent. Beginning in the northern part of the Highlands 
in Cornwall the lake-and-pond system extends through the towns of 
Highland and Monroe to Greenwood Lake, thence west and north to Big 
Meadow Pond in the Highlands. Greenwood Lake, in Warwick, is the 
largest body of water in the county. It is about nine miles long and one 
wide, is partly in New Jersey, and is a feeder for the Morris Canal. 
Sutherland's Pond, half a mile long, southeast from Cro'-nest Mountain, 
has an outlet which runs into Murderer's Creek. Big Meadow Pond, in 
Highlands, covers about 300 acres, and its outlet pours over the rocks of 
Buttermilk Falls. The waters of Round Pond flow into Long Pond 
under a natural bridge about 80 feet wide, but the stream is lost sight of 
until it emerges on the other side. This is similar lo the outlet of Wash- 
ington Lake in New Windsor, which emerges at Trout-hole and there 
becomes a fall of forty feet. Sterling Lake, at the beginning of the 
Warwick series, covers about sixty acres, and in 1751 iron works were 
established at its outlet. Round Pond, in Wawayanda, is in shape what 
its name implies, has no visible outlet, its water is clear, pure and deep, 
and it is about a mile in circumference. Thompson's Pond, in the north- 
western part of Warwick, covers about 100 acres, feeds Quaker's Creek, 
and this outlet furnishes power for mills. Orange Lake, in Newburgh, 
covers about 100 acres. But all the lakes and ponds of Orange are too 
many to be named. They are almost as interesting a feature of the 
county as its streams. 

Orange County is richer in alluvions than anv other in the State, 



TOPOCKAl'llV AXD UEuLdGY. .,5 

as they cover about 40.000 acres. The "Drowned Lands." as they were 
formerly called, include about forty square miles, and are partly in New 
Jersey, but mostly in New York, extending in Orange from' Cheeunk 
Outlet in Goshen through W'awayanda and Minisink to the Xew Jersey 
line, and covering about 17^^000 acres. They contain a number of "fertile 
islands, and thousands oracres of the waste lands have been recovered 
by means of an artificial outlet, which, at first a mere ditch, has been 
deepened and widened by the fiowing water imtil the principal flow i^ 
through it. These recovered lands are rich and productive. They are 
belted by the Wallkill and three creeks, and the Wallkill's course through 
them is long because so crooked. The Gray Court meadows extend from 
near Craigville in Blooming Grove into the northern part of Chester, and 
embrace about 500 acres, which are nearly all under cultivation and very 
productive. They are drained by Cromeline Creek. The Black ^feadows 
m Chester and \\'arwick. are about 1,000 acres in extent, and Black 
:\Ieadow Creek flows through them. Long Swamp, in Warwick, also 
contains about 1,000 acres, and is drained into Xew Jersey. Great Pine 
Swamp extends northward from Howells on the Erie railroad seven miles 
m the town of Wallkill. and embraces many oases and cultivated fanns. 
There are several other scattered areas of swamp lands. In the marl and 
peat beds in several localities many bones of the extinct mastodon have 
been found, including two complete skeletons. One of the latter was 
taken from a bed near Coldenham in 1845, »"(! weighed 1,903 pounds, 
and the. other from a bed in the town of Mt. Hope, and weighed 1.700 
pounds. 

The topography of the county has been changed somewhat bv its rail- 
roads, of which there are 250 miles, not including double trackage or 
trolley roads. The following places in towns extending across the county 
have each direct railroad communication north, east, south and west: 
Port Jervis. Middletown. Campbell Hall. Goshen. Chester and Xew- 
burgh. The wagon roads are numerous, generally good, and are charm- 
ing arteries for carriages and automobiles. 

The geology of Orange County is as varied as its topography. Along 
the eastern feet of the Shawangunk Mountains are Heidelberg lime- 
stones, gray and Medina sandstones, shales and grits, and the mountain 
rcKrks are mostly sandstones, shales and grits. The grits extend along 
the top of the range through the county and are from 60 to 150 feet 



46 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

thick. Heidelberg limestone extends from the Mamakating valley to 
the Delaware River. Grit and red rocks are on the west side of Green- 
wood Lake, and grit of various colors extends from Round Hill to Wood- 
cock Mountain, and is also found in the southwest base of the Schune- 
munck range and in Pine Hill. Grawacke is the rock on the southeast 
side of the Bellvale range in Warwick, and is found in the town of 
Blooming Grove in the Schunemunck range. The Hudson River group 
occupies a large part of the surface of the county, and consists of slates, 
shales, grits, limestones, breccias and conglomerates. It extends from 
the Hudson River through Warwick to the Jersey line, and from the 
Hudson at Cornwall Landing to four miles above Newburgh. It is 
stratified with grawacke and grawacke slate. It forms the surface rock 
of the most of Goshen and Blooming Grove, and parts of Cornwall, New 
Windsor, Newburgh, Montgomery, Hamptonburgh, Crawford, Wallkill, 
Mt. Hope and Minisink. Dark Utica slate is found on the banks of the 
Hudson near Newburgh. Trenton limestone appears in Hamptonburgh 
near Mount Lookout, and this mountain is composed of Black River 
limestone, which is also found on Big Island in the Drowned Lands and 
in Minisink. There is a bed of blue limestone about a mile wide extend- 
ing from the Hudson at Hampton southeasterly through Newburgh into 
New Windsor. It is also found in the towns of Cornwall, Blooming 
Grove, Warwick, Monroe and Goshen. Oolitic limestone is on Big Island, 
near New Milford, and on Pochunck Neck. 

Slate rocks of the Taconic system are above Newburgh, and its lime- 
stone between the Highlands and Grove Pond Mountain. Its white 
limestone appears in Warwick, where it is in narrow ridges separated by 
other rocks. It is also found along the shore of the Drowned Lands at 
Amity, and near Fort Montgomery in the Highlands, from which it may 
be traced by way of Little Pond across the Ramapo. In some localities 
it is so white as to be translucent. Many different minerals are found 
in it. 

The primary rocks of the county consist of gneiss, hornblende, granite, 
sienite, limestone, serpentine, angite and trappeau. They extend over 
parts of several towns, and several mountains and hills are composed of 
them. Granite is found at the foot of Butter Hill, sienite at Butter Hill 
and on the east side of Bare Mountain at West Point, gneiss along the 
Highlands, mica and slate north of Fort Montgomery, angite rock be- 



TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY. 47 

tween West Point and Round Pond and at several points in Monroe, 
greenstone trap at Tuxedo Pond, granular limestone at Cro'-nest and 
Butter Hill. Quartz rock and hornblende are all al(jng the Highlands 
and in Monroe and Warwick. Crystalline serpentine is in the white 
limestone in Warwick, serpolite at Amity, yellow garnet at Edenville, 
soapstone in Monroe. Large sheets of mica are found southwest of the 
Forshee iron mine in Monroe, and in this mine, which embraces an entire 
hill, are red garnet, brown tremolinc. carbonate of copper, serpentine, 
cocolite and umber. In the O'Xeil mine, half a mile northeast of the 
Forshee mine, are crystallized magnetic ore, magnetic and copper pyrites, 
carbonate of copper, serpentine, amianthus, asbestos, brown and rhombic 
spars, angite, cocolite, feldspar and mica. 

There are beds of arsenical and titanium ores in Warwick and a bed 
of hemolite ore near Canterbury village. Magnetic oxide of iron 
abounds in the jirimitive rocks of the Highlands, and at West Point is 
associated with hornblende. Beds of lead have been opened at Edenville 
and in the towns of Mt. Hope and Deer Park, and zinc and copper ores 
have been found in small quantities. The Sterling iron bed in Monroe, 
which was opened in 1781, extends over about thirty acres, and has pro- 
duced so strong an ore that it has been much used in the manufacture of 
cannon. There are a number of other iron mines. Searches for the tra- 
ditional silver, gold, lead and tin mines have been wnthout satisfactory 
results. 

Many evidences of glacial action in Orange County include masses of 
boulders scattered in places throughout the county. These are mostly 
of granite and gneiss, and there is occasionally one of grawacke. The 
eastern slope of the Shawangunk Mountains gives evidence of the j^as- 
sage there of an enormous glacier, which ground the rocks into the rich 
soil that has been cultivated there for 200 years. Some of the county's 
drift deposits are valuable for casting, brick and pottery making, litho- 
graphic stones and glass. 

The soil of the semicircular plateau from the Highlands of the Hudson 
to the Dans Kamer is mostly a mixture of gravel, sand and clay, which 
form a warm and fertile loam. That of the wide Wallkill valley is allu- 
vium mixed with clay, sand and gravel and is easily worked and richly 
productive. So is the soil brought down from the hills in the town of 
Deer Park. The lands on the islands of the Drowned Lands are among 



48 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the richest in the county. The alkivium of the Oterkill is a sauily and 
gravelly loam. In other sections of the county there is an alternating 
variety of soils, rich, medium and poor. 




^cJLd(A): AW% ^ 



EARLY (iO\-EK.\.Mi:XT. 49 



CHAPTER \'. 
EARLY C ; ( ) \ ■ I •: R X -A 1 E X J' . 

UNTIL after the coiKjuest of New York by tlic English in 1004 
Holland methods of government, with a local ,u"vernment for 
each town, prevailed. The next year the English introduced 
courts and sheriffs. In 1682 Thomas Dongan was ai)i)ointed g.ivcrnor, 
with directions to organize a council of not more than ten "eminent 
inhabitants," and issue writs for the election by freeholders of a general 
assembly, the members of which should consult with the governor and 
his council as to what laws were necessary for the good government of 
the province. The first meeting of the first general assembly was in Xew 
York in 1683, and it passed fourteen acts, which were assented to by the 
governor and his council. One of them established twelve counties, as 
follows: Xew York. Kings, Queens, Suffolk, Richmond, Westchester, 
Albany, Ulster, Dutchess. Orange. Duke's and Cornwall. 

Except Orange, to be in the care of New York, and Ulster, to be in 
the care of Dutchess, the counties were to be entitled to representation 
in future general assemblies. Another act established town courts to 
be held for the trial of minor cases each month ; county courts and courts 
of sessions, to be held quarterly or half-yearly ; a general court of oyer 
and terminer, with original and appellate power, to be held twice a } car 
in each county; and a court of chancery, or supreme court, composed of 
the governor and his council, for which the governor was empowered to 
deputize a chancellor to act in his place. 

This was the system of administering justice eight years. Then, iii 
1 691, Courts of Justices of Peace were organized in each town, and 
Courts of Common Pleas for each county. In 1701 an act was passed 
requiring justices of the peace in each county to meet once a year at a 
Court of Sessions, to examine and allow necessary charges against the 
county and its towns. 

There were supervisors, assessors and collectors in each town from 
the first, and in 1691 the freeholders of each town were empowered to 



50 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

choose three surveyors to lay out and look after highways and fences, 
and also to ordain laws and rules for the improvement of village, pastur- 
age and other lands. 

Such were the laws which directed the early administration of govern- 
ment in Orange County. 

For many years previous to 1701 Orange County shared in serious 
corruptions and frauds which were prevalent in the province. The As- 
sembly which convened in 1698 was so turbulent and brought so much 
confusion into its councils that Governor Bellomont, who succeeded 
Governor Fletcher that year, dissolved it and ordered a new election, 
raking care that the untrustworthy sheriffs of his predecessor were re- 
tired from the management. Protests were made to the King, but with- 
out avail. The Governor had been clothed with power to correct abuses, 
to veto any law, and "to adjourn, prorogue and dissolve the Assembly." 
The new Assembly, which consisted of seven Englishmen and fourteen 
Dutchmen, instituted some important reforms. It nullified grants to large 
tracts of lands, regulated election methods, and provided punishments for 
frauds. Unfortunately Governor Bellomont died in 1701, before some of 
his plans could be carried into effect, and Lord Cornbury was appointed 
as his successor, and acquired the distinction of being "the worst of all 
the Governors under the English crown." He was notoriously ill-man- 
nered, dishonest, rapacious, and openly vicious. The Assembly refused 
grants of money which he asked for, and asserted the rights of the people, 
declaring that they could not "be justly divested of their property without 
their consent." Thus began in New York the preliminary struggle 
which brought on the Revolution, ending in the establishment of the Re- 
public, in which the representatives of Orange earnestly assisted. 

The first sessions of the Court of Common Pleas and of justices of the 
peace as a Board of Supervisors were held in Orangetown in April. 1703. 
The court justices were William Merritt and John Merritt. The super- 
visors were William and John Merritt, Cornelius Cypher, Tunis Van 
Ronton, Thomas Burroughs and Michael Hawdon. The sheriff was 
John Perry, the clerk was William Haddleston, and the constable was 
Conradt Hanson. Orange and Ulster County people were then required 
to do their surrogate business in New York. This was continued until 
175 1, when the Court of Common Pleas of the county was empowered to 
take proof of wills and grant letters of administration. The Court of 



EARLY GOVERNMENT. 51 

Common Pleas was an institution of the county until 1847, when the 
County Court was substituted. The Supreme Court Ix'gan holdi?ig ses- 
sions in Orange iti 1 704, and was succeeded by Circuit Courts established 
under the Constitution of 1821, as these were by the judicial system of 
1846, consisting of a Supreme Court, Circuit Court, and Court of Oyer 
and Terminer. Surrogate's Courts were not established until 1854. In 
1727 the ori'ginal county was divided into two court districts, and the 
sessions were held alternately in Orangetown and Goshen, the former 
being- the shire town. Not until 1798 was Goshen made the shire town, 
when the sessions alternated between Goshen and Newburgh, an arrange- 
ment which still continues. 

The first public buildings for the original county were constructed at 
Orangetown in 1703. In 1740 a building of wood and stone for court 
house and jail was erected. in Goshen, at a cost of £100, and was torn 
down about 1776. a new stone court-house having been erected in 1773 
to take its place, at a cost of £1,400. The old Orange court-house had 
been replaced by a new structure in 1704, and some years afterward 
was destroyed by fire. The Goshen building came into the present county 
when it was reorganized under the Act of 1775. It was two stories high, 
with a court-room on the second floor, and on the first a sheriff's office 
and dwelling, and a dungeon for prisoners. During the Revolution Tories 
and war prisoners were confined in it, one of them being John Hett 
Smith, arrested for complicity in Arnold's treason, and who managed to 
escape. A third story was added to this building about 1800, and on the 
new floor were a main jail room, a dungeon with one grated window 
which could be completely darkened, and three other rooms for the county 
clerk, surrogate and jailer respectively. Above were a cupola and bell. 
Court-houses were erected in Goshen and Newburgh in 1842, by authority 
of an act of the Legislature, the Newburgh building at a cost of $17,000 
and the Goshen building at a cost of $13,000. The latter structure has 
been completely remodeled lately, and is now a fine, up-to-date 1)uil(ling. 
The county clerk's office in Goshen — a one-story brick building — was 
constructed in 1851. and the building there for the surrogate and super- 
visors in 1874. at a cost of $7,400. 

The county house for the poor, four miles south of Goshen, was Inult 
in 1830 at a cost of $11,000 for the building and $1,000 for 128 acres of 
land. The building has since been improved and is now 50 by 100 feet 



52 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and 354 stories high. In 1848 a building for the insane was added, which 
is 30 by 50 feet, and in 1865 a separate building for colored people was 
erected. In 1875 another building for the chronic insane was erected, the 
cost of which was $20,000, and its dimensions 80 by 40 feet and 43/2 
stories high. The farm has been increased to 263 acres, 200 of which 
are tillable, and has been provided with the requisite outbuildings. 



EAKLV MILITARY ORGAXTZATlOXS. 53 

CHAPTER VI. 
EARLY MILLLARY ORGANIZATIOXS. 

IX ilic section of Orange County taken from Lister tlie first two com- 
panies of militia were organized before 1738. The regiment to 
which they were attached consisted of nine companies, located as 
follows: Kingston 3, Alarbletown i, Wallkill i, Hurley i. Rochester i, 
New Paltz i. Highlands i. 

The regimental officers were: Colonel, A. Gaasbeck Chambers; lieu- 
tenant-colonel. W'essel Ten Rroeck; major, Coenradt !•". Klmendorf ; quar- 
termaster, Cornelius Elmendorf. 

The following lists give the names of the officers and privates in the 
territory which is now a part of Orange County : 

Foot Company of the Highlands. 

Officers: Captain, Thomas Ellison; ensign, John Young; sergeants, David 
Davids, Moses Gariston, P. McCloghery; corporals. Jacobus Bruyn, James String- 
ham ; Jonah Hazard ; clerk, Charles Clinton. 

The names of the privates were as follows : 

John Umphrey Jolin Markham 

Alexander Falls John Read 

David Bedford Joseph Mc^rikhill 

Wm. Coleman David Umphrey 

Joseph Sweezcr James Ciaml)le 

Tliomas Coleman John Gamble 

John McVey Cornelius McCkan 

John Jones John Umphrey, Jr. 

Patrick Broderick James Umphrey 

Josepii Shaw Peter Mulinder 

Caleb Curtis Robert Burnet 

William Sutton Archibald Bcaty 

Jeremiah Foster Daniel Coleman 

Charles Beaty David Oliver 

Amos Foster Arthur Bcaty 

Alexander Foster Matthew Davis 

James \'oung John Xicoll, Jr. 

James Xealy Alexander McKey 

Robert Feef Robert Sparks 

Joseph Butterton Juriah Quick 

Samuel Luckey Jacob Gillis 



54 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Joseph Simson 
James Clark 
John Clark 
Lodewick Miller 
Peter Miller 
George Weygant 
William Ward 
William Ward, Jr. 
John M. Kimberg 
William Smith, Jr. 
James Edmeston 
Tobias Weygant 
Jerry Manse 
Robert Banker 
Thomas Fear 
Frederick Painter 
Thomas Quick 



Total, 85. 



Thomas Johnston 
Casparis Stymas 
John Monger 
James Luckey 
Thomas Williams 
Johannes George 
Jeremiah Tompkins 
Isaac Tompkins 
William Watts 
Josiah Ellsworth 
James Ellsworth 
Anthony Preslaer 
Jonathan Tomkins 
Moses Ellsworth 
John Marie 
Jonathan Owens 
Andrew McDowell 



Company of the Wallkill. 

Officers : Captain, John Bayard ; lieutenant, William Borland ; ensign, William 
Kelso; sergeant, John Newkirk; corporal, John Miller. 
The names of the privates were as follows: 



Lendert Cole 
Cornelius Cole 
Barnat Cole 
John Robeson 
James Gillespie 
Thomas Gillespie 
John Wilkins 
William Wilkins 
Andrew Graham 
George Olloms 
John North 
John North, Jr. 
Samuel North 
James Young 
Robert Young 
Matthew Young 
James McNeill 
John McNeill 
Andrew Borland 
John Borland 
John McNeill, Jr. 
James Crawford 
John Crawford 
Alexander Milligan 
Nathaniel Hill 
Alexander Kidd 
Archibald Hunter 
James Hunter 
John Wharry 
John Mingus 



Stephanus Crist 
Jacob Bush 
Benjamin Haines 
John McNeill, Sr. 
Matthew Rhea 
William Crawford 
Robert Hunter 
James Monell 
George Monell 
John Monell 
William Monell 
Thomas Neils 
Robert Neils 
John Neils 
Matthew Neils 
Nathaniel Colter 
John Neily, Jr. 
Joseph Buttletown 
Thomas Coleman 
Joseph Shaw 
Patrick Broderick 
William Soutter 
John Butterfield 
John McVey 
John Jones 
Joseph Knapp 
Isaiah Gale 
Caleb Knapp 
Robert McCord 
William Faulkner 





m-j^i (^a^^^'e.^ 



EARLY MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS. 



55 



Isrcal Rodgcrs 
Jeremiah Rodders 
James Rodgers 
James White 
John Manley 
Francis Falls 
Cronamus Feltcr 
Richard Gatehouse 
Jolin Boyle 
Ricliard Boyle 
Robert Ilughey 
Robert Buclianan 
James Eager 
Thomas ^IcCollum 
Sojonaro Her 
John Haven 
McKim Clineman 
Jury Burger 
Hugh Flanigan 
Benjamin Bennet 
Patrick McPeck 
John Eldoris 
Patrick Gillespie 
John Lowry 



Samuel Smith 

Joseph Theal 

James Crawford 

Joseph Sutter 

Uavid Craig 

Edward Andrews 

Samuel Crawford 

Andrew McDowell 

Philip Millspaugh 

Cronamas Mingus 

Stuff el Mould 

Johannes Crane 

John Young 

Hendrick Newkirk 

Frederick Sinsabaugh 

Cornelius Wallace 

Hendrick Crist 

Tunas Crist 

Lawrence Crist 

Mathias Millspaugh and son 

John Jamison 

John McDonald 

James Davis 



Total, 114. 



The following, found in the records of the original County of Orange, 
is entitled "A List of Officers Belonging to the Regiment of Foot Militia 
in the County of Orange, in the Province of New York," and is dated 
June 20, 1738: 

Officers of F"oot Militia. 

Colonel, Vincent Mathews; lieutenant-colonel, Solomon Carpenter; major, 
George Rem sen ; adjutant, Michael Jackson; quartennaster, James Thompson. 

First Companv : Captain, Ram. Remsen ; lieutenant, Cornelius Smith ; ensign, 
Ebenezer Smith.' Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, sixty-three pri- 
vate men. In all, "JZ. 

Second Companv: Captain. Samuel Odell: lieutenant, Henry Cuyper; ensign, 
Benjamin Allison.' Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, fifty-eight pri- 
vate men. In all, 68. 

Third Companv: Captain. John Holly; lieutenant, Michael Dunning; ensign, 
Sol. Carpenter, Jr. Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, one hundred 
and eleven private men. In all, 121.- 

Fourth Company: Captain, Jacobus Swartwout ; lieutenant, Johannes West- 
brook; ensign, Johannes Westbrook, Jr. Three sergeants, three corporals, one 
drummer, fifty-five private men. In all, 65. 

Fifth Companv: Captain, Nathaniel Du Bois : lieutenant. David Southerland ; 
ensign, Isaac He'nnion. Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, sixty-three 
private men. In all, 73. 

Sixth Company: Captain, .Xbraham Haring. Jr.: lieutenant. Garret Beanvelt ; 



56 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

ensign, John Haring. Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, sixty-two 
private men. In all, ^2. 

Seventh Company: Captain, Jacob Vanderbilt ; lieutenant, Andrew^ Onderdonk; 
ensign, Aaron Smith. Three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, fifty private 
men. In all, 60. 

Troop of Horse: Captain, Henry Youngs; lieutenant, William Mapes ; cornet, 
Michael Jackson. Two sergeants, two corporals, one trumpeter, fifty-two private 
men. In all, 60. 

Total officers and soldiers, 595; sub-officers, 56 foot. 

In 1756 the Ulster rcg-iment was divifled into two regiments. Kings- 
ton was included in the northern one, and the southern was embraced in 
the precincts of Highlands. Wallkill and Shawangunk. These regiments 
took part in the French and Indian War. 

In September, 1773, the officers of the Southern Regiment were: 
Colonel, Thomas Ellison ; lieutenant-colonel, Charles Clinton; major, Cad- 
wallader Calden, Jr.; adjutant, Johannes Jansen. 

In 1775 the New York Provincial Congress passed a law for organizing 
militia which provided that counties, cities and precincts should be divided, 
so that a company might be fonned in each district to consist of about 85 
men, including officers, between the ages of 16 and 50 years ; that these 
should be formed into- regiments of from five to ten companies each ; 
that the regiments should be classed in six brigades, under a brigadier- 
general and brigade major, and the entire force should be commanded 
by a major-general. 

The Fourth Brigade when fornied consisted of five Orange County 
regiments, the colonels of which were William Allison of Goshen. Jesse 
Woodhull of Cornwall, John Hathorn of Warwick, A. Hawkes Hay of 
Orangetown, and Abraham Lent of Haverstraw\ The four Ulster 
County regiments were commanded by Johannes Hardenberg of Kings- 
ton, James Clinton of New Windsor, Lee Pawling of Marbletown, and 
Jonathan Hasbrouck of Newburgh. 

Colonel Allison's regimental district consisted of Goshen and the west- 
ern part of Orang-e County. Colonel Hathorn's of Warwick and the 
southern section, Colonel WoodhuU's of Cornwall (then including Monroe 
and Blooming Grove). Colonel Hasbrouck's of Newburgh. Marlborough 
and Shawangunk, and Colonel Clinton's of Windsor, Montgomery, Craw- 
ford and Wallkill. The other four regiments belonged to territory now 
outside of the county. 



EARLY MILITARY ORGAN IZATIOXS. 57 

Colonel Allison's Regiment. 

William Allison, colonel; Benjamin Tusten, lieutenant-colonel. 

Goshen Company, 1775: George Thompson, captain; Joseph Wood and Coe 
Gale, lieutenants; Daniel Everett, Jr., ensign. In 1776 Lieutenant Coe and Ensign 
Everett were transferred to a minute company, and in their places William Thomp- 
son was appointed second litutenant and Phineas Case, ensign. 

Wawayanda Company, 1775: William Blair, captain; Thomas Wisner and 
Thomas Sayne, Jr., lieutenants; Richard Johnson, ensign. 

Drowned Lands Company, 1775: Samuel Jones, Jr., captain; Peter Gale and 
Jacoh Dunning, lieutenants ; Samuel Webb, ensign. 

Chester Company, 1775 : John Jackson, captain ; John Wood and James Miller, 
lieutenants ; James Parshal, ensign. 

Pochuck Company, 1775: Ebenezcr' OweTi, captain; Licrease Holly and John 
Bronson, lieutenants; David Rogers, ensign. Li 1776: Increase Holly, captain; 
David Rogers and James Wright, lieutenants; Charles Knapp, ensign. 

Wallkill Company, 1775: Gilbert Bradner, captain; Joshua Davis and James Dol- 
son, lieutenants ; Daniel Finch, ensign. 

Minisink Company, 1775: Moses Kortright, captain: Jolin Van Tile and Johannes 
Decker, lieutenants; Ephraim Medaugh, ensign. In 1777 Martinus Decker became 
second lieutenant vice Johannes Decker. 

Colonel IIathokn's Regiment. 

John Hathorn, colonel. 

Warwick Company, 1775 : Charles Beardsley, captain ; Richard Welling and Sam- 
uel Lobdell, lieutenants; John Price, ensign. In 1776 John Minthorn l)ecame cap- 
tain in place of Beardsley, deceased; Xatiianiel Ketcham and George Vance, lieu- 
tenants ; John Benedict, ensign. 

Pond Company, 1775: Henry Wisner, Jr., captain: .\braham Dolson, Jr., and 
Peter Bartholf, lieutenants; Matthew Dolson, ensign. In 1776: Abraham Dolson, 
Jr., captain ; Peter Bartholf and Joiin Hopper, lieutenants ; Mathias Dolson, en- 
sign. In 1777: Peter Bartholf, captain; John De Bow and Anthony Finn, lieu- 
tenants ; Joseph Jewell, ensign. 

Sterling Company, 1776: John Xorman, captain: Solomon l-'inch and William 
Fitzgerald, lieutenants; Elisha Bennett, ensign. In 1777: Henry Tow-nsend, cap- 
tain ; William Fitzgerald and Elisha Bennett, lieutenants : Joseph Conkling, ensign. 

Florida Company, 1775: Nathaniel Elmer, captain; John Popino, Jr., and John 
Sayrc, lieutenants: Richard Bailey, ensign. In 1776: John Kennedy, lieutenant, 
vice Popino. In 1777: John Sayre, captain; John Kennedy and Richard Bailey, 
lieutenants ; John Wood, ensign. 

Wantage Company, 1775: Daniel Rosekrans, captain: Janus dark and Jacob 
Gale, lieutenants ; Samuel Cole, ensign. 

COLO.NEL WoODHL'LL's ReGIMENT. 

Jesse Woodhull, colonel; Elihu Marvin, lieutenant-colonel: Xathaniel Strong and 
Zachariah Du Bois, majors : William Moffat, adjutant ; Xathaniel Sattcrly, quar- 
termaster. 

Oxford Company, 1775: Archii)ald Little, captain: Birdseye Youngs and Thomas 
Horton, lieutenants; Xathan Marvin, ensign. In 1777 • Thomas Horton. captain; 



58 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Josiah Seeley, first lieutenant; Nathan Marvin, second lieutenant; Barnabas Hor- 
ton, Jr., ensign. 

Clove Company, 1775 : Jonathan Tuthill, captain ; John Brewster, Jr., and Samuel 
Strong, lieutenants ; Francis Brewster, ensign. 

Bethlehem Company, 1775 : Christopher Van Duzer, captain ; William Roe and 
Obadiah Smith, lieutenants; Isaac Tobias, ensign. In 1776: Gilbert Weeks, ensign. 

Upper Clove Company, 1775 : Garrett Miller, captain ; Asa Buck and William 
Horton, lieutenants ; Aaron Miller, ensign. 

Woodbury Clove Company, 1775: Francis Smith, captain; Thomas Smith and 
Alexander Galloway, lieutenants; John McManus, ensign. In 1776: John Mc- 
Manus, second lieutenant ; Thomas Lammoreux, ensign. 

Southwest Company, 1775 : Stephen Slote, captain ; George Galloway and John 
■Brown, lieutenants; David Rogers, ensign. 

Blooming Grove Company, 1775: Silas Pierson, captain; Joshua Brown and 
David Reeve, lieutenants ; Phineas Heard, ensign. 

Light Horse Company, 1776: Ebenezer Woodhull, captain; James Sayre, lieu- 
tenant ; William Heard, cornet ; Azariah Martin, second master. 

Colonel Hasbrouck's Regiment. 

Jonathan Hasbrouck, colonel ; Johannes Hardenburgh, Jr., lieutenant-colonel ; 
Johannes Jansen, Jr., and Lewis Du Bois, majors; Abraham Schoonmaker, ad- 
jutant ; Isaac Belknap, quartermaster. 

Clark's Newburgh Company, June 8, 1788: Samuel Clark, captain; James Denton 
and Martin Wygant, lieutenants ; Munson Ward, ensign ; William Albertson, Isaac 
Brown, Ebenezer Gidney and Hope Mills, sergeants ; Hugh Stevenson, Isaac De- 
mott, John Simson and William Palmer, corporals ; Sol Buckingham, drummer. 

Conklin's Newburgh Company, May 4, 1778: Jacob Conklin, captain; Jacob Law- 
rence and David Guion, lieutenants ; John Crowell, ensign ; Robert Erwin, Robert 
Ross, John Lawrence and Abraham Strickland, sergeants ; Jacob Strickland, cor- 
poral ; Abraham Smith, drummer. 

Smith's Newburgh Company, April 24, 1779: Arthur Smith, captain; Isaac Fowler 
and John Foster, lieutenants ; William Conklin, John Kniffin, James Clark and 
Reuben Holmes, sergeants ; William Smith, William Michael and Samuel Griggs, 
corporals. 

Colonel Clinton's Regiment. 

James Clinton, colonel ; James McClaughry, lieutenant-colonel ; Jacob Newkirk 
and Moses Phillips, majors; George Denniston, adjutant; Alexander Trimble, quar- 
termaster. 

Eastern New Windsor Company, 1775: John Belknap, captain; Silas Wood and 
Edward Falls, lieutenants ; James Stickney, ensign. 

Western New Windsor Company, 1776: James Flumphrey, captain; James Kar- 
naghan, second lieutenant; Richard Wood, ensign. 

New Windsor Village Company, 1775: John NicoU, captain; Francis Mande- 
ville and Hezekiah White, lieutenants ; Leonard D. NicoU, ensign. 

First Hanover Company, 1775: Matthew Felter, captain; Henry Smith and 
Johannes Newkirk, Jr., lieutenants ; William Crist, ensign. 

Second Hanover Company, 1775: William Jackson, ca-ptain; Arthur Parks and 
James McBride, lieutenants ; Andrew Neeley, ensign. 



EARLY MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS. 59 

Third HaiKncr Company, 1775: Cadwalladcr C. Coldcn, captain; James Milli^an 
and John Hunter, lieutenants: Matthew Hunter, ensign. 

Fourth Hanover Company, 1775: John J. Graham, captain; Samuel Rarkley and 
Joseph Crawford, lieutenants; James McCurdy, ensign. 

Fifth Hanover Company, 1775: John Gillespie, captain; Jason Wilkins and Rob- 
ert Hunter, Jr., lieutenants; Samuel Gillespie, ensign. 

First Wallkill Company, 1775: Samuel Watkins, captain; David Crawford and 
Stephen Harlow, lieutenants; Henry Smith, ensign. 

Second Wallkill Company, 1775: William Faulkner, Jr., captain; Edward Mc- 
Neal and John Wilkins, lieutenants: John I'aulkner, ensign. 

Third Wallkill Company, 1775: Isaiah Velie, captain; Israel Wickham and John 
Dunning, lieutenants; Jonathan Owen, ensign. 

Fourth Wallkill Company, 1775: William Denniston, captain; Benjamin Velie 
and Joseph Gillet, lieutenants; David Corwin, Jr., ensign. 

Of the Hanover companies the First had been known as Captain New- 
kirk's Company, the Second as Captain (goldsmith's, the Third as Captain 
Colden's, the Fonrth as Captain Crage's, and the Fifth as Captain Gala- 

tian's. 

Of Wallkill companies the First was located on the east side of the 
Wallkill, the Second on the west side, between the Wallkill and Little 
Shaw^ang-unk Kill, the Third south of the Second, between the Wallkill 
and the Little Shawangunk. and the l-'ourth northwest of Little Sha- 

wangunk Kill. 

During the service of these organizations in the A\'ar of the Revolution 
there were many changes in the commands. They were home guards. In 
case of alarm, invasion or insurrection, the companies were instructed to 
march and oppose the enemy, and immediately send an express to the 
commander of the regiment or brigade, who was to control rheir move- 
ments. 

Under a law passed by the Continental Congress in May. 1775. three 
companies of minute men were raised in the southern district of Ulster, 
with the following officers : 

Newburgh Minute Company: Uriah Drake, captain: Jacob Lawrence and William 
Ervin, lieutenants; Thomas Dunn, ensign. 

New Windsor Minute Company: Samuel Logan, captain; John Robinson, en- 
sign; David Mandcville and John Scofield, sergeants. 

Hanover Minute Company: Peter Hill, captain: James Latta and Nathaniel Hill, 
lieutenants : William Goodyear, ensign. 

These companies and one organized in Marlborough formed a regiment 
which was officered as follows : 



6o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Thomas Palmer, colonel ; Thomas Johnston, Jr., lieutenant-colonel ; Arthur Parks, 
first major; Samuel Logan, second major; Isaac Belknap, quartermaster. 

Another reg-iment was formed from two companies organized in Goshen 
and Cornwall, with the following" officers : 

Cornwall Minute Company : Thomas Mofifat, captain ; Seth Marvin and James 
Little, lieutenants ; Nathan Strong, ensign, who was succeeded by William Bradley. 

Goshen Minute Company : Moses Hetfield, captain ; Cole Gale and Daniel Everett, 
lieutenants. Later James Butler and William Barker were chosen lieutenants and 
William Carpenter ensign. 

The officers of the regiment were : 

Isaac Xicoll, colonel ; Gilbert Cooper, lieutenant-colonel ; Henry V. Verbeyck, 
first major; Hezekiah Howell, Jr., second major; Ebenezer Woodhull, adjutant; 
Nehemiah Carpenter, quartermaster. 

Eoth of these regiments of minute men were on duty in the Highlands 
in 1775-6; but the system did not work satisfactorily, and in June, 1776, 
Congress repealed the law. 

Three drafts were made in 1776 to reinforce the army — in June, July 
and September. Under the first draft Orange County sent three com- 
panies and Ulster four to the vicinity of New York City, as a part of 
General John Morin Scott's Brigade. The second draft took one-fourth 
of the miUtia under Colonels Nicoll and Pauling, constituting a brigade 
under General George Clinton. By the third sixty-two men were drawn 
from Colonal Hasbrouck's Regiment, and were a part of 600 men which 
reinforced the garrisons at Forts Chnton and Montgomery. 

In July, 1776, companies of rangers were organized for the protection 
of the frontiers, and three of them were raised in Ulster County, under 
Captains Isaac Belknap of Newburgh, Jacob De Witt of Deer Park, and 
Elias Hasbrouck of Kingston. 

Of the four "Continental" Regiments organized in 1775 to serve six 
months, the one commanded by Colonel James Chnton was largely com- 
posed of Orange and Ulster County men. Orange furnished two com- 
panies — Captain Daniel Denton's of Goshen and Captain John Nicholson's 
of New Windsor. The four regiments were in the expedition to Canada 
in 1775. 

Under a call by Congress of January 8, 1776. for troops to reinforce the 
army in Canada. New York furnished one battalion. A second call was 
made on January 19, under which New York was ree[uired to furnish four 





0(yU(^y^ 



A^^Jj^/^^^^t 



62 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



CHAPTER VH. 
FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 

THE French and Indian War was the result of rivalry between 
France and England for the possession of disputed territories in 
North America, and the Indians along the Delaware and other 
frontiers became allies of the French because they believed they had been 
cheated by the English and Dutch colonists, and were stimulated to hos- 
tility against them by French agents. 

In 1754 England directed her colonies to oppose with arms the en- 
croachments of the French, although the two nations were then at peace, 
and obedience to this command from the crown brought on the cruel war 
of 1755. In February of that year New York voted £40,000 sterling to 
defray war expenses, and ordered a levy of 800 men to co-operate with 
troops of other colonies in the impending struggle. The law also declared 
tliat slaves were liable to military duty, and if over 14 years of age they 
were forbidden to be found more than a mile from their master's resi- 
dence without his certificate of permission, and "if one of them were so 
found any white person might kill him without being liable to prosecu- 
tion." 

Along the Delaware River the Indians had been complaining that the 
whites appropriated lands which they had not bought, and by getting 
them drunk had defrauded them of the purchase money for their lands 
and their furs. These complaints led the Pennsylvania proprietaries to 
call a council, with the head chiefs of the Six Nations as arbitrators, and 
by bribing these chiefs with presents they obtained from them a decision 
which obliged the Delawares, then wards of the Senecas. to give up their 
lands and move to Wyoming. Soon whites followed them and bought 
in fraudulent ways their Wyoming lands. This angered the Senecas, 
and they drove away their chief who had aided the whites, and bade the 
Delawares defend their homes. The eastern and western chiefs met at 
Allegheny, rehearsed their grievances, and resolved on vengeance. The 
bloodv scenes that followed have seldom been surpassed in barbarous 



1 KKXCll AXU IXUIAX WAR. 63 

cruelty aiul cunning:, and the ravacres of the Minsis were mostly confined 
to the western frontiers of Orange and Ulster Counties within the limits 
of the original Minisink patent. 

The settlers of the Minisink ohscrved that the Indians there, including 
squads who had been friendly, had suddenly disappeared, and the few that 
remained said they had gone west to join hostile tribes. Foreseeing trouble, 
some of the settlers sent their wives and children to places of comparative 
safety, and a well-settled region on the west side of the Wallkill, eight by 
fittcen miles in extent, was abandoned, some of the residents moving to 
the east side and others far away. Before they moved seven men and 
one woman had been killed by the Indians. In 1756, pending negotiations 
for peace, four men and two women were killed in the Minisink. Three 
of the men went into the harvest field with their guns and laid them down, 
when concealed Indians seized them, shot the men dead and scalped them. 
At Fort U'estfall. which the Indians tried to capture by surprise, there 
was a fight in which several Indians and seven soldiers were killed. A 
large party of Indians attacked the upper fort at Xeversink. which was 
well garrisoned, but the fort took fire from a burning barn near it. and 
its inmates had to leave. Only one of them escaped the Indian bullets and 
tomahawks, ant! among the killed was the wife of the captain, who was 
absent. Only a colored woman, hidden from view by the smoke, escaped. 
The captain returned a day or two afterwards, and .took an oath of ven- 
geance by the grave of his wife. A man named Owen was killed by 
strolling Indians in Asa Dolsen's meadow in the northwestern part of 
present Wawayanda, and Dolsen immediately moved to ( ioshen. David 
Cooley lived near him, and his wife was shot dead as she was walking 
from her house to an outdoor oven. In 1758. on the Xew Jersey frontier, 
one dav, when Xicholas Cole was absent from home, thirteen Indians 
rushed in, tomahawked and scalped his two daughters and a son-in-law, 
and carried of! his wife and a yoimg son. When Cole returned the In- 
dians were followed and frightened, and allowed the wife and boy to 
escape. In June of the same year a sergeant and several men went from 
W'awarsing block-house to Minisink, and not returning, a large party went 
in search of them and f(nni<l srvcn killed and scaljied. and three wounded, 
and that a woman and four children had been carried oflf. About this time 
a house containing seventeen persons was be.set by Indians and all of 
them were kille<l. Thev carried olT a little son of Mr. W'estfall in Mini- 



64 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

sink, and he never saw his father again, but when the latter died, he came 
back with an interpreter after his inheritance. The persuasions and pecu- 
niary offers of his mother could not induce him to abandon his life in the 
wilderness. 

It was in 1758 that Governor Hardy caused a series of block-houses to 
be erected along the western frontier, which were a protection for the 
whites and a restraint to the Indians. In the latter part of that year 
negoliations with the head chief of the Delawares, Teedyusking, stopped 
hostilities for a time. The Minsis were paid for their lands in the Mini- 
sink, and the titles of the proprietaries were referred to the Government 
for adjustment. But subsequently "the Indian allies of the French" held 
the frontier in terror until after the fall of Montreal and Quebec, when 
all of French Canada was transferred to British authority. 

In an address before the Xewburgh Historical Society in 1885, E. M. 
Ruttenber said : 

"In common with its associate regiments in Orange and Ulster, Colonel 
Ellison's Regiment had no little service in the French and Indian War of 
1756, on the western frontier of the county, where the Minsis were scat- 
tering firel^irands and death in their rebel'ion against the domination of the 
wSix Nations, and for the recovery of the lands in the Minisink patent, of 
which they had been defrauded, and in 1757 marched to Fort Edward to 
aid Sir William Johnston. How great was the service performed or by 
whom personally we may never know. The depredations of the Minsis 
were terrible ; the settlements west of the Wallkill were perpetually har- 
assed, anrl many of them broken up; men were killed in the fields and in 
their houses; women and children became the victims of the scalping 
knife." 

Colonel Ellison wrote in 1757: 

"It is but too well known by the late numerous murders committed on 
our borders that the County" of Ulster and the north end of Orange have 
become the only frontier part of the province left unguarded and exposed 
to the cruel incursions of the Indian enemy, and the inhabitants of these 
parts have been obliged to perform very hard military duty for these two 
years past, in ranging the woods and guarding the frontiers, these two 
counties keeping out almost constantly from fifty to one hundred men — 
sometimes bv false detachments of the militia, and at other times by vol- 
untary subscriptions — nay, often two hundred men, which has been an 



FRENCH AND IXDIAX WAR. O5 

iiisiippiirtahlc l)ur(k'n on the ])C(i|)I(.'. and ycl all the militia of these parts 
are ordered to march to r-"t»rt I'jiward, while the officers had no orders to 
tuard the frontier." 

Afention may he made here of a famous character of the Minisink. 
whose une(|ualed career of revenue against Indians began during the 
I-rench and Indian War. His name was Thomas Quick. His father wa^ 
kind and hospitable to the Indians, and was shot dead while at work in his 
tield by some of them whom he had entertained. Thomas, who was near 
him, and was then almost a youth, managed to escape. Over his father's 
grave he took an oath to avenge his death, and afterward to kill Indians 
became the passion of his life. It was sai<l that he shot eighty-seven of 
them, the last one being the chief murderer of his father. He went by the 
name of "the Indian slayer." He was marvelously alert and cunning, 
escaped all of the many efforts of Indians to kill him, and finally died of 
old age. A monument has been erected to his memorv in Milford. I'a. 



V 



66 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



CHAPTER VHI. 
WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. 

THE most interesting period of our national history was its begin- 
nings in protests against oppressive demands and acts by the 
mother country, followed by a revolutionary resort to arms, and 
in these beginnings Orange County took a conspicuous part. 

The non-importation resolutions adopted by the Continental Congress 
in 1774 drew the line of issue between Great Britain and her North 
American colonies, which started the war for independence. Perhaps their 
most significant feature was a call for the organization of committees of 
safety in every city, county, precinct and town. In the original County of 
(Grange the people had held a convention in Goshen, which sent a delegate, 
Henry Wisner, to Congress, who voted for and signed the non-importa- 
tion resolutions ; and in the towns of Newburgh, New Windsor, Hanover, 
Wallkill and Goshen an opposition pamphlet which had been scattered 
broadcast was publicly burned and the desired committees of safety 
promptly selected. On April 29, 1774, the committee in New York drew 
up a pledge and sent it to all the counties and towns for signatures. The 
pledge was as follows : 

■'Persuaded that the salvation of the rights and liberties of America 
depend, under God, on the firm union of its inhabitants in a vigorous 
j)rosecution of the measures necessary for its safety ; and convinced of 
the necessity of preventing anarchy and confusion which attend the dis- 
solution of the' powers of government, we, the freemen, freeholders and 

inhabitants of do, in the most solemn manner, resolve never to 

become slaves ; and do associate, under all the ties of religion, honor, and 
love of our country, to adopt and endeavor to carry into execution what- 
ever measures are recommended by the Continental Congress, or resolved 
upon by our Provincial Convention, for the purpose of preserving our 
Constitution, and opposing the execution of the several arbitrary acts of 
the British Parliament, until a reconciliation between Great Britain and 
America, on constitutional principles (which we most ardently desire) 




cu 



o 



o 



WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. 67 

can be obtained; and tliat wo will in all things follow the advice of our 
(icneral Committee respeclinn the purposes aforesaid, the preservation of 
])eacc and ijood order, and the safety of individuals and property." 

When the sii^ned plcdj^es were returned to the Provincial Convention in 
.\ew York it invested the committees of safety with power to appoint 
assessors and collectors, and these, with the committees, were directed 
I0 assess, raise and collect the quotas required for the support of the 
home government, and empowered to enforce collection from defaulters 
by "distress upon their goods and chattels." They might also arrest per- 
sons inimical to the measures which had been or might be taken. These 
powers were afterward enlarged by Congress, and the committees cm- 
powered to suppress the enemies of the revolutionary government. Legis- 
lative duties devolved upon the Provincial Convention until 1777, when 
the first Constitution of New York was adopted, and meanwhile the com- 
mittees of safety attended to the execution of its laws Methods differed 
somew^hat in different counties. In Orange the precincts chose commit- 
tees, and these constituted the county committee. A signature to the 
pledge formulated by Congress was regarded as evidence of loyalty to the 
revolutionary cause. 

In the precinct lists of the Orange County signers of the pledge the 
signatures in Goshen embraced the present towns of Goshen, Chester. 
^^'arwick. W'awayanda. Greenville, and a part of Blooming Grove; iti 
Mamakating those of ATt. Hope and Deer Park; Cornwall and Highlands 
were included in Cornwall; in Monroe parts of Blooming Grove and the 
present county of Rockland ; in Xewburgh. Xew Windsor and Wallkill 
with Newburgh. The signatures b\- precincts were as follows: 

Precinxt of Xewbirgh. 

Col. Jona. Hasbrouck. Henry Cropsey. 

Thomas Palmer. » VVm. Harding. 

Kaac Belknap. Joscpii lielknai). 

William Darling. John .Stratton. 

Wolvert .'Kcker. Lewis Holt. 

Ji»ini Belknap. Samnel Hallock. 

John Robinson. Samuel Sprague. 

Saml. Clark. Burroughs Holmes. 

Picni. Birrl.sall. Samuel Bond. 

Benjamin Smith. Thomas Cam|)l)ell. 

Tamos W'augii. James Co«man. 

Abel Belknap. Lewis Clark. 

Moses Higby, M.D. Jonathan Sw't 



68 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of NEWBURcn.' — Con tinned. 



Reuben Tooker. 
]^avid Belknap. 
Daniel Birdsall. 
Robert Lockwood. 
Benj. Knap. 
Saml. Westlake. 
Josiah Ward. 
Silas Gardner. 
Jacob Gillis. 
Wm. Kencaden. 
James Denton. 
John P'oster. 
Hope Mills. 
John Cosman. 
Wm. Wear. 
Thomas Fish. 
Wm. Lawrence. Jr. 
John Kernoghan. 
Robert Harmer. 
Robert Ross. 
John Crowell. 
Obadiah Weeks. 
Francis Harmer. 
William Bloomer. 
Abraham Garrison. 
James Marston. 
Samuel Gardiner. 
Anning Smith. 
Richard Albertson. 
Martin Weigand. 
W^m. Foster. 
Wm. Wilson. 
Wm. Stillwell, Jr. 
Peter Donally. 
Charles Tooker. 
Leonard Smith, Jr. 
Henry Smith. 
James Wooden. 
Thomas Smith. 
Caleb Case. 
David Green. 
John Stillwell. 
Luff Smith. 
John Gates. 
Benj. Darby. 
Israel Smith. 
Thads. Smith. 
Jacob Myers. 
Saml. Concklin. 
Isaac Brown, M.D. 
Peter Tilton. 
John Douaghy. 
Ste. Stephenson. 



John Griggs. 
Saml. Smith. 
Jeremiah Ward. 
Wm. Ward. 
Wm. Russel. 
John Tremper. 
Charles Willett. 
Jeremiah Dunn. 
Wm. Lawrence. 
Robert Waugh. 
Wiggins Conklin. 
Robert Beatty, Jr. 
Abr'm Johnston. 
Silas Sperry. 
Tames Clark. 
David Mills. 
Caleb Cofifin. 
James Harris. 
Theo. Hagaman. 
Wm. Dunn. 
Nehemiah Carpenter. 
Leonard Smith. 
Wm. Day. 
John Wandel. 
Abel Thrall. 
Phineas Corwin. 
Moses Hunt. 
Samuel Sands. 
Jacob Concklin. 
Joseph Price. 
John Saunders. 
Benj. Lawrence. 
Richard Buckingham. 
Jacob Morewise. 
Nicholas Stephens. 
Johannis Snider, y' 
Benjamin Robinson. 
Andrew Sprague. 
Thomas Beaty. 
Solo. Buckingham. 
Wm. Bowdish. 
Jona. Belknap. 
Jacob Tremper. 
Abraham Smith. 
Cornelius Wood. V 
John Lawrence. 
George Hack. 
John Shaw. 
Corns. LTasbrouck. 
Isaac Demott. 
David Smith. 
John Stratton. 
Absalom Case. 



WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. 



69 



Prfxinct of Newburgh. — Continued. 



Joseph Dunn. 
Daniel j\Iorewise. 
Jonathan Owen. 
Jehiel Clark. 
Reuben Holms. 
Nathaniel Coleman. 
George Leonard. 
Elnathan Foster. 
Neal McLean. 
Wm. Palmer. 
George Westlake. 
Burger Weigand. 
Tunis Keiter. 
Hugh Quigly. 
Daniel Darby. 
Isaac Brown, Jr. 
Hezekiah Wyatt. 
Wm. Whitcheaa. 
Daniel Goldsmith. 
Gabriel Travis. 
Nathaniel Weed. 



John Weed . 
Daniel Duboise. 
Arthur Smith. 
Isaac Fowler. 
Stephen Outman. 
Saml. Stratton. 
Joseph Carpenter. 
Daniel Thurstin. 
John Fowler, 
r^aniel Clark. 
Isaac Donaldson. 
Wm. Concklin. 
Charles Tooker. 
John Smith. 
Isaac Fowler, Jr. 
William Wright. 
Wm. White. 
Daniel Kniffen. 
Rob. Morrison. M.D. 
John Dolson. 
Leonard Smith. 



Prixixct of New Windsor. 



JauRS Clinton. 
John Nicholson. 
James McClaughny. 
Matthew Du Bois. 
Robert Cook. 
John Umphrey. 
James Umphrey. 
George Umphrey. 
Oliver Umphrey. 
James McDowell. 
.Mexander Telford. 
Robert Smith. 
Jonah Park. 
Scudder Newman. 
James Humphrey 2d. 
Jolm Davis. 
John Coleman. 
Joseph Young. 
And'-ew Robinson. 
William Fulton. 
James Tavlor. 
Hugh P.illoy. 
Sanr.iel (iivcn. 
Polu-rt T.nriHi, Jr. 
Timothy Mills. 
William IWichanan. 
Matthew Bell. 
Robert Thompson. 
Charles Nicholson. 



William Robinson. 
.Arthur Carscadden. 
Edward Lyal. 
Henry McNeeley. 
William Niclos. 
Roliert Boyd, Jr. 
Nathan Smith. 
Sanniel Logan. 
James Denniston. 
Jacob Mills. 
Thomas Cook. 
Daniel Clemenee. 
Robert Couhan. 
John Waugh. 
William Gage. 
Alexander Kernahan. 
William Stin.son. 
1 lenry Roberson. 
r.enianiin Homan. 
Wiliiam Miller. 
Willinm Telford. 
John Burnet. 
Joseph Realty. 
John Smith, 
lames M. Oliver. 
William Miller jd. 
Charles Bvrn. 
Walter McMichacl. 
George Coleman. 



JO 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of New Windsor. — Continued. 



James Gage. 
James Dunlap. 
Robert Stuert. 
Samuel Wood. 
Nathaniel Garrison. 
Andrew Dickson. 
George Coleman 2d. 
Peter John. 
Samuel Lamb. 
AVilliam Crawford. 
John W. Miklan. 
I'Vancis Mains. 
James Miller. 
John Morrison. 
Hugh Watterson. 
Caleb Dill. 
John Dill. 
Edward Miller. 
Robert Whigham. 
John Crudge. 
Robert Boyd. Sr. 
Silas Wood. 
Richard Wood. 
John Johnston. 
/^David Crawford. 
John Morrison 2d. 
Henry McNeeley, Jr. 

.Alexander Taylor. 
James Perry. 

Samuel Boyd. 
John Cunningham. 
James Jackson, Jr. 

Isaac Stonehouse. 

John Iliffernan. 

James Smith. 

William Park. 

David Thompson. 

Nathaniel Liscomb. 

William Mnllincr. 

Isaac Belknap. 

Natiianiel Boyd 2d. 

Edward Petty. 

Robert Johnston. 

Joseph Sweezey. 



Alexander Fulton. 
James Faulknor. 
David Clark. 
Nathan Sargent. 
Gilbert Peet. 
James Docksey. 
Solomon Smith. 
Samuel Woodward 
Jonathan White. 
Alexander Beatty. 
Jonathan Parshall 
James Greer. 
John Mills. 
Thomas Eliot. 
Robert Campbell. 
Nathaniel Boyd. 
Charles Kernaghan. 

Eliphalet Leonard. 

William Nichols. 

Thomas McDowel. 
/James Crawford. 

Joseph Belknap. 

John Nicoll. 

Samuel Brewster. 

Samuel Sly. 

.Matthew McDowel! 

Daniel Mills. 

John Close (Rev.) 

William Moffat. 

William Beatty. 

tieorge Harris. 

Stephen King. 

John Murphy. 

Benjamin Burnam. 

.Austin Beardsley, 

Thomas Swafford. 

Timothy White. 

Dennis Furshay. 

George Mavings. 

Samuel Brewster 

David Mandevill. 

William Welling. 

Peter Welling. 

Hugh Tp.rner, 



^ 



Jr. 



Precinct of iM.\ \i.\k.\tinc 



John Young. 
Capt. John Crage. 
Benj. Cuddeback, Jr. 
T. K. Wcstbrook. 
William Johnston. 
Johan. Stufflebane. 



Johan. Stufflebane. 
John Thompson. 
Wm. Cuddeback. 
F.lias Travis. 
Fli Strickland. 
Capt. J. R. DeWitt. 



Jr. 





• c^cyZ^O^^^^i>-*^'^*^^->^^ 



^J 



WAR OF THE REX'OLL'TION. 



71 



Precinct of Mamakatin^;. 
Abiicr Skinner. 
Tliomas Kytte. 
Joseph Drake. 
Isaac Van Twill. 
Joseph Westbrook. 
Daniel Van Fleet, Jr. 
Jacoi) V^an Invvegen. 
Corn. Van Inwegen. 
Renben Babbett. 
Robert Milliken. 
John Williams. 
W'm. Smith. 
Jep. Fuller. 
Joseph Thomas. 
Joseph Skinner. 
John Travis. 
John Travis, Jr. 
Robert Comfort. 
Eph. Fiir'.jison. 
Moses Miller. 
J no. Barber. 
John Fry. 
(jeorge Gillespy. 
Henry Xewkirk. 
Philip Swartwout, Esq. 
\Vm. Ha.xton. 
Robert Cook. 
William Rose. 
James Williams. 
James P.Iizzard. 
Tliomas Combs. 
Ebcnezer llalcomb. 
Abr. Cndcleback. 
.\ldert Rosa. 
David Ciillaspv. 
.M)rm. Cuddeback, Jr. 
bred. Benaer. 
Jonathan Brooks, 
libenezer Parks. 
I'etrns (inmaer. 
J. DeWitt riumaer. 
F./rekiel Thnnacr. 
F.Iias Ciuinaor. 
.>I(j>ies Dcpny. Jr. 
Jonathan Wheeler. 
Thomas Lake. 
Jacob Comfort, 
(onah Parks. 
Saml. Patterson. 
Joel Adams. 
James Cuncn. 
Pe'er Simpson. 
Benjamin Dupny. 



-Cuniinucd. 
John McKinstry. 
Harm. Van Inwegen. 
Samuel Dupuy. 
Chas. Gillets. 
James McCivers. 
Joseph llubbanl. 
G. Van Inwegen. 
Elii)halet Stevens. 
Adam Rivenburgh. 
Stephen Larney. 
Samuel King. 
Valentine Wheeler. 
John Wallis. 
Jacobus Swartwout. 
Gerardus Swartwout. 
Phil. Swartwout, Jr. 
Jacobus Cuddeback. 
Petrus Cuddeback. 
Rufus Stanton. 
Asa Kmiball. 
Zeh. llolcomb. 
Samuel Daley. 
Nathan Cook, 
llenry Ellsworth. 
John Seybolt. 
David Wheeler. 
F'.Iisha Barber. 
Jonathan Davis. 
Gershom Simpson. 
Jacob Stanton. 
Ji)hn Gil la spy. 
Abraham Smedes. 
Joseph Shaw. 
.\braham Rosa. 
Jacob Rosa. 
Stephen llalcomb. 
Moses Roberts. 
Daniel Roberts. 
Jeremiah Shaver. 
Joseph Ogdcn. 
Elias Miller. 
George 1. Denniston. 
Jonathan Strickland. 
Johannes Miller. 
John iJouglass. 
Joseph Randall. 
Thos. Gillaspy. 
D.miel Walling, Jr. 
^|•ltlhl•w Neely. 
John Harding. 
I'.ph. Thomas. 
.-\bm. .McQuin. 
Joseph .\rihur 



7^ 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of Mamakating. — Continued. 



Daniel Decker. 
John Brooks. 
David Daley. 
Daniel Walling, Jr. 
Matthew Tervvilliger. 
Johannes Wash. 
Daniel Woodworth. 



Nathaniel Travis. 
Ezekiel Travis. 
Joseph Travis. 
Isaac Rosa. 
Abr. Smith. 
Leonard Hefinessey. 



Precinct of Goshen. 



Minisink Distriri. 



J. Westbrook, Jr. 
Benjamin Cox. 
John Prys. 
Levi Decker. 
Samnel Davis. 
Reuben Jones. 
Petrns Cole. 
A. Van Etten. 
John Bennett. 
Petrus Cuykendal. 
Sylvester Cortright. 
Jacobus Schoonhoven.. 
Jacobus Vanfliet, Jr. 

Thomas Plart. 
John Van Tuyle. 

S. Cuykendal, Jr. 

iVlartinas Decker, Jr. 

Wilhclmus Westfill. 

A loses Kortright. 

Jacob Harraken. 

G. Bradcock. 

Nicholas Slyter. 

Danie! St. John. 

AllK-rt Osterlioust. 

Johannes Westbrook. 

Simon Westfall. 



pinOiiiillg-Crn 



D' 



Alexander Smith. 
Joseph Conkling. 
Jonathan Horton. 
John Case. 
Phincas Rumsey. 
Benjamin Harlow. 
William Hubbard. 
Garrett Duryea. 
David Youngs. 
James Miller. 
James Mapes. 
Joseph Drake. 
Samuel Haines Smith. 



Isaac Davis. 
George Quick. 
Jacobus Davis. 
Jacobus Vanfliet. 
Levi Van Etten. 
Daniel Cole. 
Benjamin Corson. 
Joel Westbrook. 
A. C. Van Aken. 
Johannes Decker, Jr. 
Jacob Quick. 
Timothy Wood. 
Benjamin Wood. 
James Carpenter. 

Esee P.ronson. 

Isaac LTptegrove. 

.Solomon Cuykendal. 

Alartinas Decker. 

Benjamin Boorman. 

Nehemiah Pattison. 

Arthur Van i uyle. 

Wilhelmus Cole. 

Petrus Decker. 

.\sa Astly. 

Daniel KortriglU. 

Tiphraim Middagh. 

-.trici. 

Increase Wyman. 
Jonathan Smith. 
John Barker. 
Moses Carpenter. 
Joshua Corey. 
John Corey. 
John Pain. 
Dnniel Pain. 
\¥illiam Warne. 
Hczekiah Warne. 
Zeba Owen. 
Jonathan Jayne. 
Caleb Coleman 



WAR OF THE REX^OLUTION. 



Pl<tLiNLI 111 (i 



. — ^('Htn'ucd. 



Bloum ing-Grorc District. 



David Rogers. 
Iknry Wisner. 
'Iliomas (loldsniilli. 
Jacobus Bartholt. 
Guilian P>artholf. 
Abraham Dalscn, Jr. 
I.saac Dalsen. Jr. 
Cornelius Decker. 
David Dcinarest. 
John Denton. 
Corns. Van Orsdale. 
Joseph EHiot. 
John Elliot. 
Abraham Springsteen. 
Capt. Nathaniel Roc. 
Lient. John Jackson. 
Joseph Dixon. 
David (Kidtrey. 
Silas Pierstm. 
William Satterly. 
Ciidfun Salmon. 
Piiineas Salmon. 
John lirown. 
Silas Morton. 
John Cravens. 
Ezra Keelcr. 
James Aspell. 
Cicftrge Dnryea. 
John Ketchnm. Jr 
William Heard. 
Phineas Heard. 
Joshna Reeve. 
Obadiah 1 lelms. 
William Forbes. 
Coleman Curtis. 
David Jones. 
Francis Baird. 
Stephen. Lewis, 
Nathaniel Mintlmrn. 
Gamaliel 'i'ansdell. 
.\ndre\v Christy. 
Hendrick Partholf. 
Peter i!artholf. 
Retiben Hall. 
Soloinon Carpenter. 
Martin Myer. 
Joshna Smith. 
Kbenezer Beer. 
Samitcl MolTat. 
Lieut. John Wood. 
Ensign Dar.iel Drake 



Daniel looker. 
Isaiah Smith. 
William Lcsly. 
David Rnmsey. 
John Meeker. 
Joseph Browne. 
David Horton. 
Solomon Smith. 
John King. 
Ciippc Brooks. 
Samuel Wickham. 
Silas Horton. 
Charles 'looker. 
John Budd. 
William Horton. 
Joshua Brown. 
Joshua Brown, Jr. 
lames Markel. 
John Bull. 
Richard Bull. 
Jeremiah Butler. 
John Minthorn. 
-Abraham Chandler. 
Jacobus Laine. 
Jacob Demarest. 
Joseph Todd. 
John Bigger. 
Eli-cah Doan. 
James Smith. 
Zephaniah Hull. 
Jo>^eph Case. 
William Marshall. 
Benianiin MacVea. 
Christopher Springsteen. 
Hezeiah Watkins. 
Daniel Reeve. 
Samuel Bartholi 
Tjenrx- Rocmer. 
Robert McCane. 
Peter (la'e. V 

Sfeiihen .Meeker. 
Joseph Smith. 
!"h<imas McCane. 
Samuel Smith. 
Jacoi) Dunning. 
Jo-ihua l>avis. 
Ji>hn Williams. 
Kicliard Jones. 
Philip P.orroughs. 
Thomas Engle.';. 
Olivrr Headv. 



74 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of Goshen. — Continued. 



Blooiiiius-Grove District. 



Richard Sheridan. 
■^Jonathan Owen. 
Joshua Wells. 
Jonah Seely. ~ 
Wright Smith. 
Silas Stewart. 
Benjamin Carpenter. 
Sqnire Whitaker. 
Silas Hulse. 
Elisha Hulse. 
Benjamin Smith. 
Samuel Cooley. 
John Ferger. 
David Kendle. 
Samuel Cole. 
Peter Miller. 
Robert Thompson. 
Matthew Billing. 
James Little, Jr. 
Benjamin Whitaker. 
Henry David. 
Samuel Demarest. 
John Hopper. 
William Wisncr. 
Israel Wells. 
Daniel Carpenter. 
Samuel Carpenter. 
Peter Arnout. 
James Bell. 
Jeremiah S. Conkling. 
John Garvey. 
Benjamin Forgesson. 
Elijah Truman. 
David Moore. 
Nathaniel Tuthill. 
Joseph McCane. 
Joe.l Cross. 
Caleb Goldsmith. 
FTenry Smith. 
John Finch. 
]\[oses Smith. 
Robert Thompson, Jr. 
George Little. 
James Knap. 
Jeremiah Smith. Sr. 
Amos. W^oolcocks. 
Jeremiah Ferger. 
Zephaniah Drake. 
John Van Cleft. 
Israel Holley. 
William Seely..^ 



John Van Cleft. Jr. 
David Cooley, Jr. 
Nicholas Van Tassel. 
Joshua Weeks. 
Benjamin Currie. 
Samuel Jones. 
Michael Carpenter. 
Samuel Webb. 
John Owen. 
Benjamin Dunning. 
William Kimber. 
Gilbert Bradner. 
Jacob Finch. 
Hidley Spencer. 
William Walworth. 
Cornelius Bartholf, Jr 
Stephen Bartholf. 
Joseph Allison. 
Michael Allison. 
James Allison. 
William Carpenter. 
Casper Writer. 
I/Jonas Wood. 
David Linch. 
John Boyle. 
"Michael Coleman. 
.Abraham Harding. 
Henry David, Jr. 
Jonathan David. 
James Thompson. 
Jonathan Coole}^ 
William Lloward. 
James Dolsen. 
Isaac Dolsen. 
Reuben Smith, Jr. 
Jacob Fegate. 
Jeremiah Smith, Jr. 
.•\mos Smith. 
Matthias Carvey. 
John Carvey. 
Francis IMvanjoy. 
Solomon Tracey. 
.A.mos Hubbs. 
Thomas Barer. 
William Morris. 
John Kennady. 
Joseph Wilson. 
James Steward. 
Joseph .Steward. 
John Clar. 
John Feigler. 



WAR OF THE RE\'OTX'T[OX. 



75 



Prlcinct 01" Goshen 
Blcnniiinii-Cmvc 



J 



Benjamin Demarest. 
Peter Dcmarest. 
Sallier David, 
luhvard David. 
Jolin David. 
Jacob Cole, 
(icorge Kenilile. 
William Dill. 
Ciiristopher .Myers. 
Thomas Wood. 
Philip Rodrick. 
William McCane. 
James MeCane. 
Martin MeConnely. 
William Ilorton. 
I'hilip Horton. 
Benjamin Carpenter. 
Henry Samis. 
Sanuiel Knapp. 
R(>t)l<)f \'an IJrnnt. 
Abel Jackson. 
Xathaniel Knapp, Jr. 
James Parshall. 
-Anthony Swartvvout. 
Benjamin Jackson. 
(Jeorge Howell. 
James Mosier. 
Sannicl l-'inch. 
Samnel Reed. 
Jaliez I'inch. 
Benjamin Wallworth. 
John Whilakcr. 
"Xathaniel Mather.-., 
Increa-e Matthews. 
James Gardiner. 
John Little. 
James Reeves. 
John Knap. 
Jonatlian Corney. 
Solomon Roe. 
Saven Tracex. 
C)l)Tdiah Smith. 

I lenry F'.arlh'ilf. 
David Deinaresl. 
Jacob Dcmarest. 

William King. 
Christopher Decker. 
James McCane. 
Jolin Th()mpsf)n. 

i'homas < iale. 

Charles Webb. 

Samnel Chandler. 



— Contiiiurd. 

D IS I rid. 

Richard Allison. 
Henry Hall. 
John Kinnett. 
Benjamin Halsted. — ^ 
David Miller. 
Henry Dobin. 
Solomon Finch. 
Solomon Hoff. 
Joseph Cnrric. 
James Ramsey. 
James Masters. 
James Clark. 
Michael Dnnning. - 
James Schoonover. 
John Morrison. 
Joseph Coleman. 
Jonathan Coleman. 

William Kirby. 
Orinns Bartholf. 
James Bartholf. 

iosejjh Halsted. 
"Michael Halsted. 

Gershon Owen. 

Samuel Westbrook. 

.\nthonv West Brook. 

Joshua Hill. 

Benjamin Gabrelis. 

David Shephard. 

Abraham Dolsen, Sr. 

John Kinman. 

I >aniel Rosegrout. 

John Davis. 

David Lowren. 

Moses Whitehead. 

John Myers. 

David Stephens. 

Jeremiah Trickey. 

Henry Clark. 

Inhn Carpenter Smith. 

Nathan Roberts. 

John Shepard. 

Jf>hn (ierner. 

I le/eki:di Lawrence. 

.Vathan Pembcrton. 

FJcnianiiii Cole. 

Caleli Smith. 

Peter .\nioiit. 

Mattbe\\ Howell. 

Matthew Howell. Jr. 
Ihonias .Angel. 

i•.■^ac i'racey. 

Elijah Egars. 



76 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of Goshen. — Continued. 



Blooming-Grove District. 



James Hulse. 
Mark Chambers. 
David Cooley. 
Nathaniel Cooley. 
Nathan Bailey. 
Nathan Bailey 2d. 
Zcphaniah Kelly. 
Samuel Satterly. 
William Vail. 
James Hamilton. 
Joseph Beckas. 
Elias Clark. 
Alexander Campbell. 
Elihu Horton. 
Jrlngh Fulton. 
Phineas Parshall. 
Peter Townsend. 
John Gardiner. 
Michael Brooks. 
David Howell, Jr. 
John Howell. 
Samuel Harman. 
Jabez Knap. 
Nathaniel Knap, Jr. 
Peter Barlow. 
Elias Oldfield. 
Samuel Sawyer. 
Jeremiah Oakley. 
Timothy Smith. 
Benjamin Attwood. 
Gilbert Howell. 
Isaac Hoadley. 
Nathan Arnout. 
William Little. 
Caleb Smith. 
Stephen Smith. 
David Caser. 
Matthew Tyrel. 
Andrcv,' Miller. 
Asa Vail. 
Bazaliel Seely. " 
Francis Gallow. 
John McDowell. 
William Hoff. 
John Kimball. 
James ]Miller. 
James Stewart. 
.\braham Johnston. 
Stephen Conkling. 
Joshua Howell. 
Samuel Titus. 
Jonathan Hallock. 



John Miller. 
John Rhodes. 
David Mapes. 
Zacheus Horton. 
Joshua Wells. 
Benjamin Hill. 
Nathaniel Allison. 
William Kinna. 
John Bailey. 
Landrine Eggers. 
John Conner. 
Peter Mann. 
Daniel Cooley, Jr. 
William Huff. 
Jacob Cole. 
Edward David, Jr. 
Daniel David. 
Richard Hoisted. 
Joseph Oldfield. 
Joseph Chilson. 
Silas Holley. 
Benjaunn I^unning. 
Daniel Holley. 
Joshua Drake. 
Wait Smith. 
.Stephen Jackson. 
Daniel Myers. 
John Smith. 
Jonathan Rawson. 
"William Reed. 
William Egger (Eager) 
Daniel Egger. 
Anning Owen. 
Jacob Hulse. 
Solomon Smith. 
Thomas Denton. 
.\sa Derba. 
Moses Clai-k. 
William Helms. 
Phineas Case. 
W^illiam Knap, 
(iilbert Aldrigc. 
Tames Kinner. 
Joshua Hallock. 
John I\fory, 
Oliver Smith. 
Tsiac Smith. 
Cain Mehany. 
Ebenezer Holly. 
Joshua Plerbert. 
John Armstrong. 



WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. 



/'/ 



Precinct or Cornwall. 



John Brewster, Jr. 
Silas Benjamin. Jr. 
Smith Clari<. 
Tliomas Clark. 
Kphraim Clark. 
Jienjamin Alapes. 
Bethucl Mapes. 
Isaac Corky. 
Patrick Cassaday. 
Joseph Wilcox, 
limothy Smitli, Jr. 
Richard Moniman. 
Nehemiah Clark. 
John Secly. — 
James Peters. 
James Matthews. 
William Roc. 
Joseph Smith. 
John ^IcWhortcr. 
Josiah Pell. 
John Pell. Jr. 
.\br'm Ketchnm. 
Thomas Clark. Jr. 
William H miter. 
Archibald Little, Jr. 
Jonas Seely. - 
Israel Hodges. 
Samuel Knights. 
James Sayre. 
Isaac Corley. Jr. 
Jesse Marvin. 
Jeremiah Clark. 
x/ Joseph Wood. 
Archibald Little. 
Stephen Gilbert. 
•Abraham Loce. 
John Mapes. 
Joseph Ketchum. 
Samuel Ketchum, Jr. 
Benjamin Ketchum. Jt 
Benjamin Ketchum. 
Joseph Morrcll. 
James Tuthill. 
Brewster flelmc. 
William Brown. 
.\sahel Coleman. 
Samuel Sackct. 
Micah Cnlenian. 
John Smith. 
Ciorshom Clark. 
Timothy Little. 
Samuel ^L'll)es. 
Justus Stevens. 



/ 



David Stevens. 
Jonathan Stevens. 
Daniel Mapes. 
Smith Mapes. 
Isaiah Mapes. 
Nathan .Marvin. 
Samuel Gibson. 
Solomon Little. 
Jesse Woodluill. 
Nathan Brewster. 
Jonathan Brooks. 
Elihu j\larvin. 
Seth Marvin. 
Elihu Marvin, Jr. 
David Beggs. 
Timothy Brewster. 
Isaac Brown. 
Jesse Teed. 
Benjamin Budd. 
Benjamin Lester. 
Joab Coleman. 
Phineas Helmes. 
Silas Youngs. 
Silas Youngs, Jr. 
Reuben Youngs. 
Abimael Youngs, Jr. 
John Callay. 
Thomas Sullivan. 
Jeremiah Howell. 
George Baitman. 
Josiah Seely. _ 
John McCarly. 
John Wood. 
Thomas Moffat. 
Samuel Smith. 
David Mandcvil. 
Vincent Matthews. 
Samuel Ketchum. 
Eleazer Youmans. 
Stephen Youmans. 
John Marvin. 
Jonathan Ilallock. 
John Pecham. 
John Burges. 
Patrick Odey. 
Isaiah Howell. 
Sanmcl Sccly. - 
Israel Sccly. 
Natli.uiicl Seely" 
James Little. 
I'haddeus Seely. - 
Beniamin Grcgor)'. 
William Nicholson. 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Precinct of Cornwall. — Continued. 



Silvanns White. 
Daniel Coleman. 
John Brewster. 
Christopher Van Duzer. 
Isaac Van Duzer, Jr. 
Roger Barton. 
Obadiah Thorn. 
Solomon Sheldon. 
Absalom Townsend. 
James Hall. 
Silas flail. 
John \Y. Clark. 
Paul Howell. 
Silas Howell. 
Bazaliel Seely. 
Elijah Hudson. 
Samuel Moffat, Jr. 
Hugh Murray. 
Dennis Cooley. 
Silvanus Sayles. 
Matthew Sweny. 
Isaac Brewster. 
Ebenezer Woodhull. 
Nathaniel Strong. 
Daniel Tuthill. 
Maurice Hearen. 
James Smith. 
Henry Dier, Sr. 
Silas Pierson. 
Silas Pierson, Jr. 
Richard Coleman. 
Francis Drake. 
-Benoni Brock. 
Justus Hulse. 
Stephen Howell. 
Stephen Sayles. 
Daniel Smith. 
Daniel Jones. 
John Brooks. 
John Moffat. 
Michael Kelly. 
John Eoonard. 
l-ewis Donnovan. 
John Close (Rev.) 
John Pride. 
Nathaniel Seely, Jr. 
Jesse Seely. 
Obadiah Smith. 
Nathaniel Satterly. 
Hezekiah Howell, Jr. 
Patrick McLaughlin. 
Daniel Deven. 
James Davidson. 



Bn. Cruft. 

Nathaniel Sayre, Jr. 
David Clark. 
Richard Drake. 
Josiah Reeaer. 
Peter Reeder. 
Stephen Reeder. 
Jacob Reeder. 
Samuel Reeder. 
Francis Vantine. 
Alexander Sutton. 
Samuel Smith. 
Thomas Smith. 
Jacob White. 
Justus Philby. 
Benjamin Corey. 
Frederick Tobias. 
Gilbert Weeks. 
Nathan Birchard. 
Zebulon Birchard. 
Robert Height. 
Daniel Thorne. 
Timothy Wood. 
Samuel Moffat. 
Sylvan us Halsey. 
Barnabas Many. 
Luther Stuart. 
James Sayre, Jr. 
John Sayre. 
Birdseye Young. 
Aaron Howell, Jr. 
William King. 
Isaac Bower. 
Thaddeus Coolev. 
William McLaughlin. 
Nassiad Curtis. 
Elijah Green. 
Jonathan Tuthill. 
Francis Tuthill. 
Zachariah DuBois. 
Francis Brewster. 
Joseph Collings. 
Thomas Collings. 
James Moore. 
Benjamin Thorne. 
John Parker. 
Hezekiah Howell. 
Richard Collingwood. 
Silas Benjamin. 
John Benjamin. 
John Kelley. 
Aaron Howell. 
John Carpenter. 



WAR Ul' Tin: Ri:\ Ul.LTlUN. 



Precinct of Counwm.!.. — Continued. 



I'.tnjaniin Carpenter. 

limotliy Carpenter. 

Joseph Carpenter, Jr. 

Rol)ert dreKg. 

Sanmel Hanlctt. 
-William Owen. 

Silas Coleman. 

linprli Cregs. 

Francis Drake. 

Charick X^anduzen. 

Azariah Martin. 

Abraham Bntler. 

Zachariah Biirwell. 

Joshna Rurwell. 

Joseph Reeder. 

John Reeder. 

William Reeder. 

Joseph Reeder, Jr. 

Samuel Tnthill. 

Benjamin Tuthill. 

Joshna Sandstar. 

Isaac Lamoureux. 

John Lamonreux. 

John Lamouren.x 2d. 

Peter Lamoureux. 

Luke Lamoureux. 

Peter Lamoureux, Jr. 

Philip Miller. 

John Carpenter 2d. 

Elijah Carpenter. 

William Carpenter. 
- Josiah Hals'.ead. 

Jonathan DuBois. 

Thomas Poicy. 

Thomas TIerlcy. 

Zachciis Morton. 

John McLean. 

.Austin Smith. 

Joseph Lamoureux. 

Eleazer Taylor. 

William Bradley. 

Nathaniel Pease. 

Charles Howell. 

F,. Taylor. 

William Cook. 

Thomas Chat field, 
lames Wilkins. 

Willian- Moffat. 

Uaac Moffat. 

John Moffat. 

Thomas Lenington. 

Jesse Brewster. 

Joseph Chandler. 



William Gregg. 
Silvanus Bishoj). 
Samuel Smith. 
John l<"aren. 
Isaac V^andusen n\. 
John Lighthody. 
Gabriel Lighthody. 
Isaac Lighthody. 
.Andrew Lighthody. 
James Lighthody. 
Thomas Hulsc. 
Selah Satterly. 
Joel Tuthill. 
John Miller. 
.Arch. Cunningham. 
James Galloway. 

Abner Thorp. 
John Johnson. 

Arche. Concham, Jr. 

George Whitaker. 

Henry Myers. 

Ilenry Brewster, Jr. 

Joseph Van Nort. 

William Conkling. 

John Brooks. 

Neal Anderson. 

James Mitchell. 

James Overton. 

Mo.ses Strain. 

Caleb Ashley. 

Benjairiin Chichester. 

Jonas Garrison. 

Samuel Robbins. 

William Ikdall. 

Thomas Smith. 

Jacob Comten. 

Jacob Comten, Jr. 

Thomas Cooper. 

William Clark. 

.Abraham Sneden. 

Adam Belsher. 

Stephen Hulsc. 

F.lcazer Luce. 

Timothy Corwin. 

James Ludis. 

Daniel Rtimsey. 

John Tuthill. 

William Owens. ** 

William Bartlett. 

James Stought. 

John Carpenter .vl. 

James McClngin. 

William llooge. 



So 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. * 

Precinct of Cornwat.l. — Continued. 



James McGuffack. 
Silas Corwin. 
Henry Brewster. 
Stephen Halsey. 
James Halsey. 
Jacob Brown. 
John Earll. 
Peter Earll. 
Abraham Cooley. 
Silas Tucker. 
George Everson. 
Thomas Everson. 
Reuben Tucker. 
David Wilson. 
Peter Lowrie. 
Elisha Smith. 
Aaron DeGrauw. 
y Amous Wood. 
John Williams. 
Togidah Dickens. 
Samuel Howard. 
William Howard. 
Erancis Bourk. 
John Daynes. 
Aaron Miller. 
Owen Noblen. 
Jacob Devo. 
Thomas Willett. 
Thomas Horton. 
Hanes Bartlett. 
Reuben Taber. 
Solomon Cornwell. 
John W. Tuthiii. 
Joseph Davis. 
Nathaniel Jayne. 
Stephen Jayne. 
Daniel Jayne. 
Joseph Hildreth. 
Adam Miller. 
Isaac Tobias. 
David Bloomfield. 
Gilbert Roberts. 
Eawrence Ferguson. 
Daniel Harrison. 
Daniel Miller. 
Joseph Gold. 
Henry Davenport. 
Israel Osmun. 
Ezekiel Osmun. 
Henry Hall. 
William Cooper. 
Samuel Lows. 
Jacob Lows. 



Tobias Wygant. 
James Lewis. 
Nathaniel Biggs. 
James Huff._ 
Daniel Curtis. 
Nathan Strong. 
Solomon Sarvis. 
Richard Earll. 
Benjamin Earll. 
John Brase. 
-Robert Brock. 
Neal Anderson 2d. 
Benjamin Jayne. 
Joseph Patterson. 
Thomas Gregg. 
Jacob Vanduzer. 
Andrew Stuart. 
Henry Atwood. 
Isaac Vanduzer. 
William Ayres. 
William Miller. 
Edward Robben. 
Isaac Horton. 
Hugh McDonel. 
James Wilks. 
James Wilks, Jr. 
Richard Wilks. 
William Thompson. 
John Johnson. 
John Wagent. 
John Wagent 2d. 
Joseph Stevens. 
Thomas Smith. 
Silas Reynolds. 
John Wolly. 
Peter Stevens. 
William Obadge. 
John Boucke. 
Silas Millis, Jr. 
Charles Field. 
Henry Mandeville. 
Jacob Mandeville. 
Francis Mandeville. 
-Peter Reynolds. 
Thomas Powell. 
Benjamin Pringle. 
Daniel Prindle. 
Enos Prindle. 
Oliver Davenport. 
Chester Adams. 
Joseph Canfield. 
Benjamin Canfield. 
John Canfield. 



WAR OF THE REXOLUTK )X. 
Precinct of Cohsw \LL.~Coiitiniicd. 



8i 



Anius Miller. 

Lornwcll Sands. 

Thomas Linch. 

George Galloway. 

John Smith. 

JJariah Stage. 

Garret Willem, Jr. 

William 14orton. 

Benj. Miller. 

James Miller. 

.Asa Buck. 

Robert Miller. 

Joini McKclvey. 

Benjamin Goldsmith. 

Jo.seph Miller. 

Timothy Owens. 

John Gee. 

John .Arkils. 

John Earll, Jr. 

David Standley. 

James Unels. 

James Arnold. 

Xathan June. 

Fanton Horn. 

Thomas Davenport. 

Oliver Davenport. 

Robert Davenport. 

Gideon Florence. 
V Uriah Wood, 
t Amos Wood. 
^ t Benjamin Wood. 
(/ John Wood (3d). 
V Daniel Wood. 

James Scoldfield. 

Uriah Crawford. 

Jonas Smith. 

Francis Plumsted. 

Samuel Whitmorc. 

Amos Whitmore. 

George Everitt. 

David Miller. 

Zabud June. 

Francis Smith. 

Thomas Dearin. 

Jeremiah Fowler. 

Martin Clark. 

Richard Langdon. 

Stephen Pect. 

John Cronckhite. 

Andrew Sherwood. 

William Sherwood. 

Samuel Strong. 

Thomas Oliver. 



John Carr. 

Garrett Miller. 

David Causter. 

Josliua Miller. 

\\ illiam Bell. 

Zophar Head. 

John Hall. 

Benjamin Kelley. 

Henry Dier. 

William Compten. 

Philips Roblin. 

Samuel Hall. 

Matthias Tyson. 

Vincent Helme. 

L. Canfield. 

Daniel Adams. 

Patrick Ford. 

Amos Mills. 

John Barton. 

Andrew Southerland. 

James Southerland. 

Alex. Southerland. 

David Southerland (3d). 

John Southerland. 

David Southerland. 

Henry Cunningham. 

Henry Reynolds. 

David June. 

Richard Sheldon. 

John Celly. 

Stephen C. Clark. 

Reuben Clark. 

Joseph Plumfield. 
« John Wood. 
: Stephen Wood. 

Amos Pains. 
Joseph Cu|)per. 
Joseph Caiitield, Ir. 

Francis Welton. 
John J. llanunond. 

Solomon Siles. 
Thomas Porter. 
John Samson. 
Micah Seaman. 
Jonathan Earll. 
John Haman. 
.Alexander Johnson. 
Safiuiel Earll. 
Samuel Raymond. 
Thomas Lamoureu.x. 
James Tuttle. 
John Florence. 
Francis Miller. 



82 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Thomas Gilbert. Elijah Barton. 

Alexander Galloway. Benjamin Quackenbush. 

William Douglas. William White. 

Patrick McDowell. Jacob Vanduzer. 

In Newburgh precinct the "Committee of Safety and Observation," ap- 
pointed January 27, 1775, consisted of Wolvert Acker, Jonathan Has- 
brouck, Thomas Palmer, John Belknap, Joseph Coleman, Moses Higby, 
Samuel Sands, Stephen Case, Isaac Belknap, Benjamin Birdsall and John 
Robinson. 

In New Windsor precinct the committee appointed May 6, 1775, con- 
sisted of Col. James Clinton, Capt. James McClaughry, John Nicoll, John 
Nicholson, Nathan Smith, Robert Boyd, Jr., Samuel Brewster, Samuel 
Sly, Samuel Logan. In May, 1776, the committee became: Samuel 
Brewster, chairman ; Robert Boyd, Jr., Nathan Smith, Hugh Humphrey, 
George Denniston, John Nicholl, Col. James McClaughry, Samuel Arthur. 

In the precinct of Mamakating, John Young, chairman of committee, 
certified that the pledge was signed by all the freeholders and inhabitants 
of the precinct, June 26, 1775. 

In the precinct of Goshen the committtee appointed September 14, 
1775, consisted in part of Isaac Nicoll, Benjamin Gale, Moses Hetfield, 
Daniel Everett, James Little, Joshua Davis, with Daniel Everett as Chair- 
man. Later the names of John Hathorn, John Jackson, Henry Wisner, 
John Minthornes and Nathaniel Ketchum were chairman at different 
times. 

In the Cornwall precinct, 1775, the committee consisted of Hezekiah 
Howell, Archibald Little, Elihu Marvin, Nathaniel Satterly, Nathaniel 
Strong, Jonathan Brooks, Stephen Gilbert, Zachariah Du Bois, with 
Thomas Moffat as chairman. 

In the precinct of Hanover no names of pledge-signers were reported, 
but the committee, appointed May 8, 1775, consisted of Dr. Charles Clin- 
ton, chairman ; Alexander Trimble, Arthur Parks, William Jackson. 
Henry Smith, Jacob Newkirk, James Latta, Philip Mole, John Wilkin, 
James McBride, James Milliken, Samuel Barkley. 

In the precinct of Wallkill there was no return of pledge-signers, but 
the committee, Jan. 30, 1775, consisted of Abimael Tonng. chairman; 
James Wilkins, Hezekiah Gale, Moses Phillips, Henry Wisner, Jr. 

The county committee of Orange in 1776 had Elihu Marvin, of Corn- 
wall, for chairman, and David Pye was deputy chairman for Haverstraw 



WAR OF THE RE\'OLUTIOX. 83 

and Orangetovvn. Robert Boyd, of New Windsor, was chairman for 
Ulster County. 

The Committees of Safety and Observation began immediately to 
gather arms, and later to arrest inimical or suspected persons and bring 
them to trial. 

With few exceptions the inhabitants of Orange and Ulster Counties 
were loyal, earnest and active for the cause of Independence. In the early 
years of the war tlie militia was efficient in guarding the frontiers, con- 
structing Highland forts and placing obstructions to navigation in the 
Hudson River ; and two of the companies took part in the expedition to 
Canada of 1775. In 1776 one-fourth of the militia of the two counties 
was "drawn out for the defense of the State" and stationed along the 
Highlands. They consisted of two regiments from Orange commanded 
by Colonel Isaac Nicoll, and one from Ulster commanded by Colonel 
Levi Paulding. In December, after the British had captured New York, 
a more general requisition was made, and men were obliged to leave their 
families and stock unprovided for. which caused great disaffection for a 
time ; but after General Washington's victory at Trenton they were per- 
mitted to return home. 

In 1777 George and James Clinton were in command on the west side 
of the Hudson, and General Putnam on the east side. Burgoyne, with an 
army of 3,000 men. marching down from Canada, had reached Saratoga, 
and Howe, with another army, was marching to capture Philadelphia, 
wlien. about September 20. 3.000 British and Hessian soldiers arrived 
in New York and joined the army of Sir Henry Clinton. Thus rein- 
forced Clinton soon started to force his way up the Hudson, and on 
October 6, approached Forts Montgomery and Clinton, defended by some 
400 of Colonel DuBois's Regiment and Lamb's Artillery, and about 200 
militia, mostly from Orange and Ulster Counties. They made a gallant 
defense, but finally overwhelmed by superior numbers, were obliged to 
retreat, leaving behind them 300 in killed, wounded and prisoners. In 
Governor Clinton's report to General Washington of the fight at Fort 
Montgomery he said that Sir Henry Clinton commanded in person; that 
the enemy was repeatedly driven back by grape shot from a. field-piece 
and the well-directed fire of musketry during their approach ; that the 
militia retreated to the fort, when a demand to surrender was refused ; 
and that the enemy's superior numbers finally forced the works on all 



84 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

sides. If expected reinforcements had reached the fort it was beHeved 
that the enemy would have been defeated. Many miUtiamen were in 
the mountains, but their communications had been cut off. There were 
not more than 600 men in both the forts, while the attacking army num- 
bered 3,000. Governor Clinton escaped across the Hudson, and many 
of his men were bayonetted after the works were taken. DuBois's 
Continental Regiment and Lamb's Artillery bore the brunt of the fight. 
The following other regiments were represented in small numbers ; 
Colonel Allison's from Goshen, commanded by himself ; Colonel James 
Clinton's from New Windsor, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel James 
McClaughry ; Colonel Harbourg's from Newburgh, commanded by 
Colonel Masten ; Colonel Jesse Woodhull's from Cornwall, commanded 
by Colonel Dubois. 

Sir Henry Clinton's ships moved on up the Hudson, and Putnam's and 
Clinton's troops followed. The British Commander caused Kingston to 
be burned, and here, receiving the news of Burgoyne's surrender, turned 
back. His army tarried a few days in the Highlands to complete the de- 
struction of the forts, and then sailed to New York, and the militia re- 
turned home. 

The Indians on the western frontier of Orange and beyond were still 
nursing grievances against the colonists, and were easily won over to the 
British side by diplomatic agents. Their depredations began again in 
1777, when the family of a Mr. Sprague in the northern part of the Mini- 
sink was attacked and some of them taken prisoners. Next they killed 
some of the family of a Mr. Brooks, and took the rest prisoners. In 
1778 the upper Minisink was invaded by about 100 Indians, under the 
famous warrior chief, Brandt, and on Oct. 13 they attacked two dwellings, 
killed three persons and destroyed much grain and stock. The settlers 
repaired to the forts of Gumaer's and DeWitt's, and the Indians after 
following and firing a few times at them from a distance, went away. 

The Committee of Safety for Minisink in 1778 consisted of Benjamin 
DePuy, Philip Swartout and Ezekiel Gumaer, and they ordered the erec- 
tion of five forts, three in the upper neighborhood, and two in the lower. 
These could not accommodate all of the fifty families in what is now Deer 
Park, and many women and children were sent to the older settlements. 
Scouting parties were sent out under command of Captain Bezaliel Tyler, 
and persons suspected of aiding the Indians were imprisoned or banished. 



WAR OF Till-: RI-:\()LLT1()X. 85 

Small comijanics of nine months" militia were obtained to J4^arri-^(>n the 
forts. 

The massacre of Wyoming in July, and the horrible cruelties practiced 
upon some of the prisoners, had caused grave apprehensions, and these 
were increased by the coming of Brandt and his Indians in October. 
Count Pulaski and his cavalry legion were sent to Minisink, and remained 
there during the winter of 1778-9, and Colonel \'an Cortlandt's Regiment 
was sent to Wawarsing. In the spring Count Pulaski and his legion were 
ordered to South Carolina, and on July 19 Brandt, aware of the jjoorly 
defended Minisink. came with sixty-five Indian warriors and twent\- 
sevcn Tories disguised as Indians, to the lower section, now Deer Park, 
south of the Neversink and while the settlers were asleep set fire to sev- 
eral dwellings. Some of the inmates were killed as they were fleeing and 
others were taken prisoners. The cattle were driven off, and much liooty 
carried to Brandt's headquarters, Grassy Brook, on the Delaware. When 
news of the murderous raid was received by the militia, a council was 
held by Lieutenant-Colonel Tusten of Colonel Allison's Goshen Regi- 
ment, Colonel John Ilathorn of the \\'arwick Regiment, and Captain 
Meeker of the New Jersey militia, and contrary to Tusten's advice, it 
was decided to march against the Indians with such numbers of men as 
could be quickK' brought together. Meanwhile Brandt's force had been 
increased to about 3CX) Indians, and 200 Tories painted to resemble In- 
dians. The small band of militiamen, commanded by Colonel Ilathorn. 
marched to the hills overlooking the Delaware near the mouth of the 
Lackawaxen. and then discovered lirandt and his warriors three-fourth•^ 
of a mile away. Colonel Hathorn prejiared to attack them, but r.randt 
outmaneuvered him, and cut off fifty of his men. leaving only ninety in 
the fight that followed. I^randt got in their rear, and hemmed them in 
on a rocky slope, with the advantages of position and more than five 
times as many men. \\'hen their amnninition was exhausted they formed 
in a hollow square to fight with clubbed muskets, but the square was soon 
broken and the men sought safety in rlight. Tusten was killed by the 
Indians while dressing wounds of his men behind a rock, as were also 
seventeen wounded men with him. Others were shot or drowneil in 
trying to swim across the Delaware. Only about thirty survived. 

In Colonel Hathorn's report of the fight to Governor Clint<Mi he says 
that "the enemv repeatedly advanced to from forty to one hundred yards 



86 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

distance and was as repeatedly repulsed" ; that his men "defended the 
ground nearly three hours and a half and during the whole time one 
blaze without intermission was kept up on both sides." This was at the 
last stand on the slope. Hathorn's men had been firing for five hours, 
when, ammunition being almost exhausted, he ordered that no one fire 
"without having his object sure." Soon they were forced to retreat down 
the hill towards the river, and scattered, every man for himself. Col- 
onel Hathorn further says : 

"The Indians were under the command of Brandt, who was either 
killed or wounded in the action. They burnt Major Decker's house, barn 
and mill, James Van Vlock's house and barn, Daniel Vanoker's barn 
(here were two Indians killed from a little fort around the house, which 
was saved). Esquire Cuykindall's house and barn, Simon Westfall's 
house and barn, the church, Peter Cuykindall's house and barn. Mer- 
tinus Decker's fort, house, barn and saw-mills, and Nehemiah Patter- 
son's saw-mill ; killed and scalped, Jeremiah Vanoker, Daniel Cole, Eph- 
riam Ferguson and one Tavern, and took with them several prisoners, 
mostly children, with a great number of horses, cattle and valuable plun- 
der. Some of the cattle we rescued and returned to the owners." 

A list of the names of the killed has been preserved, and is as follows : 

Killed in Minisink Fight. 

Col. Benjamin Tusten. Gabriel Wisner. 

Capt. Bezaliel Tyler. Stephen Mead. 

Capt. Benjamin Vail. Nathaniel Terwilliger. 

Capt. John Dimcan. Joshua Lockwood. 

Capt. Samuel Jones. Ephraim Ferguson. 

Capt. John Little. Talniadge. 

Lieut. John Wood. John Carpenter. 

Adjt. Nathaniel Fitch. David Burney. 

Robert Townsend. Gamaliel Bailey. 

Samuel Knapp. Moses Thomas. 

James Knapp. Jonathan Haskell. 

Benjamin Bennett. Abram Williams. 

William Barker. Daniel Reed. 

Jacob Dunning. Jonathan Pierce. 

Joseph Norris. James Little. 

Gilbert S. Vail. Nathan Wade. 

Joel Decker. Simon Wait. 

Abram Shepherd. James Mosher. 

■ Shepherd. Isaac Ward. 

Eleazer Owens. Baltus Niepos. 

Adam Embier. San-uel Little. 

Ensign Ephraim Hasten. Benjamin Dunning. 
Ensign Ephraim Middaugh. 



WAR Ol- THE REVOLUTION. 87 

There is a tradition ihat Joseph CrancU secretly visited the Minisink 
some time before his second invasion, and was cared for by a Tory, and 
thus became well informed of the condition of the region. Brandt was 
supposed to be a half-breed, with a German father, but later he was be- 
lieved to be a pure Mohawk Indian. He was educated at Dartmouth Col- 
lege, and at the commencement of the Revolution received a British 
appointment as Colonel of the Six Nations. He was a Free Mason, but 
neither this nor a good education tamed his savage nature. Dr. Wilson 
said of him : "He was more cunning than the fox and fiercer than the 
tiger." 

Detachments from Woodhull's, Allison's and Hathorn's Regiments were 
sent to guard the frontier, but Sullivan's expedition up the Susquehanna 
and to the Genesee Valley drew the attention of Brandt, and he and his 
Indians did not return. 

The jails at Goshen an<l Kingston were filled with prisoners, but the 
local Tories continued to be troublesome, and some of them joined the 
British Army, while others made predatory excursions from retreats in 
the lower Highlands, covered by the British works at Stony Point and 
Fort Lee, and became a terror to the inhabitants. 

The residents of this portion of the country and on down the Raniapo 
Valley were mostly Tories, and in this defile in that region known as the 
"Clove," the Tory Moody intercepted an express from Washington to 
Congress regarding an interview about the land and naval forces of 
France. This messenger was intended by Washington to be captured, 
and the news thus obtained caused the withdrawal of a portion of the 
forces under Cornwallis, rendering easier the capture of the latter at 
Yorktown. Claudius Smith and his sons, who had their headquarters in 
the Clove, were the boldest and most successful of its Tories. Smith was 
a large, powerful and shrewd man and while he committed many crimes 
and did many hazardous things, yet for a long time managed to escape 
capture. In Octolx?r. 1778, Governor Clinton, enraged at Smith's depreda- 
tions. ofTered a reward for his arrest and that of his two sons. Richard 
and James. Alarmed by this. Smith fled to Long Island, was recognized 
there, and seized in the night in bed. He was tried for one of his crimes 
at Goshen in January. 1779. and executed on the 22nd of the same month. 
Five of his associates were executed with him — Matthew^ Dolson, John 
Kvan. Thomas Delamar. Tohn Gordon and Amy .\ngor. Retribution fol- 



88 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lowed soon on all Smith's band. His son William was shot in the moun- 
tains, and his son James was probably executed in Goshen soon after his 
father, with James Flewelling and William Cole. Silas Gardner, however, 
who was tried and sentenced as a Tory, was pardoned, but the rest were 
slain or driven from the country. Claudius Smith commenced his depre- 
dations in the interest of the British in 1776, and first appeared on the 
public records, charged with stealing, in 1777. He was confined in the 
Kingston jail, and transferred from there to the Goshen jail, from which 
he escaped. He was said to be the friend of the poor, giving liberally to 
them of what he stole from the rich. Many exciting stories were told 
of his doings. 

One of the most brilliant exploits of the war was the night assault on 
Stony Point, twelve miles below West Point, and now a State reservation 
in Rockland County. This was on July 16-17, 1779. It had been occupied 
by British troops since Clinton's expedition up the Hudson in 1777, and 
was regarded as almost impregnable. "Mad'' Anthony Wayne headed the 
enterprise, and it was carried out in substantial accordance with a general 
plan which had been suggested by General Washington. The fort was 
garrisoned by 700 men, who had fifteen pieces of artillery on the heights. 
Their surprise was complete, and the capture quickly accomplished. The 
American loss was 15 killed and 83 wounded ; that of the British 63 killed, 
61 wounded and 575 made prisoners, only one of the garrison managing to 
escape. The works were destroyed and the place evacuated. In July, 
1779, the British reoccupied it, and began to build defenses, but were soon 
withdrawn because of the coming of the French fleet, and the Americans 
took possession and began restoring the fortifications. 

Arnold's treason was discovered Sept. 23d, 1780, and Stony Point was 
included in the fortifications which he intended to betray. His treason, 
his conference with Major Andre below Stony Point, Andre's stay at 
Hett Smith's house, his capture at Tarrytown and brief confinement at 
West Point, Arnold's flight and Andre's trial and execution, are too 
familiar to the readers of American history to require recapitulation here. 




dLkFiL^^ <=>L ^ 



THE WAR ol" I Si 2 89 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE WAR ( )l- 1812. 

NOTWITHSTANDING other ostensible causes, it was really neces- 
sary to complete the independence of the United States, only partly 
effected l)v the War of the Revolution, that the War of 1812 
should be bc^uiv and fought out. Great Britain claimed the right to 
search American ships, impress American seamen into her service, and 
make prizes of all American vessels going to or from Erance or her 
allies which did not clear from or touch English ports. Erance issued 
retaliatory decrees which were more damaging to America than Eng- 
land. They declared that its vessels which had touched English 
ports or submitted to be searched by an English ship should be the prop- 
erty of Erance. anci that English goods, wherever found, should be sul>- 
ject to confiscation. Thus endangered by the policy of both nations, Con- 
gress in 1809 declared an embargo prohibiting American vessels from 
sailing from foreign ports, and foreign ships from carrying away Amer- 
ican cargoes— a law which virtually suspended our commerce and exposed 
our merchants to the risks of bankruptcy. England gave notice to the 
President that her claims before stated would be adhered to. and Congress, 
seeing no other means of redress, formally declared war on June 18. 181 2. 
Orange County citizens had given expression to their views on the 
embargo act in March. 1800. A Republican county convention held at 
Goshen selected General Hathorn as its chairman. an<l a committee on 
resolution- was appointed consisting of Jonathan I'isk. CoL'tu-l John 
Nicholson. General Reuben Hopkins and Judge Nathan White. The reso- 
lutions reported and adopted asserted that the American embargo was "a 
wise anrl patriotic measure, imperiously demanded by the exposed condi- 
tion of our seamen, slipping and trade to the audacious outrages of for- 
eign powers.- In the I-ederal party's county convention, held later. 
Daniel Niven was chairman, and its committee on resolutions consisted 
of John Barber. Alexander R. Thompson. Alanson Austin. John Bradner. 
J N. Phillips, John Morrison. John Ducr. Samuel Saver. Jame^ Storey. 



90 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Solomon Sleight, John Decker and Samuel B. Stickney. The resolutions 
protested against the enforcement of the embargo, as "unjust, illegal and 
oppressive, subversive of the rights and dangerous to the liberties of the 
people." 

But when the war came the views of many of the Federalists had 
changed, and they sustained the Government. 

The first call for troops was made April 21, 1812, when the militia 
was arranged in two divisions and eight brigades, and the brigades were 
divided into twenty regiments. The second brigade of the first division, 
embracing the militia of Orange and Ulster, under Brigadier General 
Hopkins of Goshen, was organized as the Fourth Regiment, and its Com- 
mander was Lieutenant Colonel Andrew J. Hardenburgh of Shawangunk. 
In 1 81 3 and 1814, Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Belknap took the place of 
Lieutenant Colonel Hardenburgh. The cavalry and artillery were simi- 
larly organized. 

The second call was made in July, 1813, and the third in July, 1814, 
when the places of rendezvous were Newburgh and New Windsor, and 
from these the men were moved on sloops to New York and assigned to 
the neighboring fortifications. They embarked Aug. 28, and returned 
Dec. 4, having been absent only a little more than three months. 

Among the uniformed companies at that time were the following: 
Orange Hussars of Montgomery, Captain William Trimble (succeeded by 
Captain MilHken) ; Captain Van Orsdal's and Captain Dorcas's companies 
of infantry of Montgomery; Captain Kerr's company of artillery of 
New Windsor; Captain Butterworth's company of artillery of New- 
burgh ; Captain Westcott's company of cavalry of Goshen ; Captain 
Acker's company of cavalry of Newburgh and Marlborough ; Captain 
Denniston and Captain Birdsall's companies of infantry of New- 
burgh. 

It appears that Captain Westcott was afterwards appointed Major of 
the first regiment of cavalry, when Chaeles Lindsay was made captain of 
his company ; Joseph H. Jackson, first lieutenant ; Daniel McNeal, second 
lieutenant, and Stephen P. Rockefellow, cornet, all being residents of 
Montgomery except Major Westcott. 

In the fall of 1812, Captain Denniston of the "Republican Blues" en- 
listed about fifty volunteers to serve one year or during the war, and they 
elected Jonathan Gidney captain. They formed part of a detached regi- 




Signing ol the W awayanda Patent. 



THE WAR OF 1812. 



91 



ment of riflemen of wliich Captain Denniston became major and after- 
wards colonel. 

A part of a company from Wallkill was includefl in Colonel Harden- 
huro^h's Ulster regiment, which went to Plattsburgh and thence to Fort 
Hamilton, near the Canada line, for guard duty. 

The following roll of a detached company in Colonel Michael Smith's 
regiment of infantry, mustered in in Se])tember, 1814, embraces men 
from both Orange and Ulster Counties: 

Roll of Detached Company. 



Dunning, Jolni. Captain. 

Mullicks, William, First Lieutenant. 

Moore, Walter, Ensign. 

Booth, Jeffrey, First Sergeant. 

Crane, John A., Second Sergeant. 

Dunning, Henry, Third Sergeant. 

Clark, Oliver, First Corporal. 

Genung, Pierson, Second Corporal. 

Murray, Archibald Y., Third Corporal. 

Lewis, James, Fourth Corporal. 

Smith, Derrick, Fifth Corporal. 

Wilkin, Daniel, Sixth Corporal. 

Brown. Samuel, Drummer. 

Genung, Harvey, Fifer. 

Brown, Elisha. 

Brundage, Abijah. 

Brown, Xeal. 

Bennett, Levi. 

Brown, Daniel. 

Bailey, Xathaniel. 

Benjamin, John. 

Booth, Thomas .\. 

Bedford, Benjamin. 

Cash, Stephen. 

Clark, Stephen. 

Corey, Benjamin. 

Crawford, James. 

Caldwell, Gabriel. 

Christie, .Andrew. 

Corwin, Xebat. 

Corwin, Joseph. 

Cox, Jeremiah. 

Co.x, Thompson. 

Canfield, Joseph. 

Decker, Stephen. 

Dunning, Michael. 

Dunning, John, Jr. 

Planning, Samuel. 

Goldsmitii. Salem. 

Gale. Henry. 

Gregory. Lyman. 

Goldsmith, Moses. 



(iardner, .Samuel, 
(iardner, Silas L. 
Goldsmith, John D. 
Horton, Barnabas. 
Hulse, Jonas, Jr. 
Hudson, Eleazer. 
Hines, John W. 
Jackson, Daniel T. 
Jagger, Paul. 
Kirk. Robert. 
Kortright, John C. 
Kerr, X'athan. 
Kirk, David. 
Keen, Elihu C. 
Knox. James. 
Knapp. Elijah. 
Long, Artemas. 
Lockwood. Jared. 
Lodcr, Isaac W. 
.Millspaugh, Samuel. 
McXish, Joshua. 
.McXish, Spicer. 
McXish, Henry. 
McCarter, James. 
McCartcr, .-Mien. 
-McWy, James. 
-Mires, John, Jr. 
.Monnel, Joseph. 
Moore, Lodcrwick. 
.Miller. John C. 
McWy, John. 
Mc\'ey, .\rden. 
McCarter. William. 
Miller, George. 
Xicolls, .Mien. 
Ogden, Gilbert. 
Prcscott, Stephen. 
Puff, .Kdam. 
Puff, James. 
Roi)bins, John. 
Robbins. Peter. 
'\ny. James. 
RMik-rrs. John. 



92 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Selleck, Isaac. Taylor, Morrison. 

Slauson, Alva. Uptegrove, Richard. 

Saver, William. Van Benschoten, John. 

Sands, Samuel. Warren, David. 

Stringham, Jacob. Warren, Solomon. 

Smith, Isaiah W. Warren, Eliphalet. 

Screder, Elijah. White, Jonathan. 

Smith, Grant. Watson, James. 

Smith, Silas W. Wilkin, William. 

Smith, Bezalell. Wood, John. 

Thompson, Jonathan. Youngs, Virgil W. 
Treadwell, Charles. 

Orange County was represented in the Navy by Silas H. Stringham, 
Charles Ludlow and Robert C. Ludlow, among others. Robert Ludlow 
was on the "Constitution" when she captured the "Java," and Augustus 
C. Ludlow as a lieutenant distinguished himself as a hero in the action 
of the "Chesapeake" with the "Shannon." 

After the British captured Washington in 1814, a public meeting was 
held in Goshen, August 30, to consider the propriety of repairing the fort- 
ifications at West Point or erecting new ones for public defense. General 
James W. Wilson was chairman of the meeting, and a committee to 
devise and report plans was composed of John Duer, Jonathan Fisk, 
William Ross, John W. Wilkin, George D. Wickham, James Finch, Jr., 
and Nathan H. White. They reported at an adjourned meetmg, and 
recommended the following committee of defense, which was ap- 
pointed : 

For Minisink, John Bradner, Nathan Arnot ; Deer Park, John Finch, 
Jr., Joseph Baird ; Wallkill, Henry B. Wisner, Benjamin Woodward; 
Goshen, John Duer, Freegift Tuthill ; Warwick, Dr. Samuel S. Seward, 
Jeffrey Wisner; Monroe, James D. Secor, Benjamin Cunningham; Corn- 
wall, William A. Clark, Joseph Chandler, Jr. ; Blooming Grove, Col. 
Selah Strong, Jeremiah Horton ; Montgomery, John Blake, Jr., Johannes 
Miller ; Newburgh, John D. Lawson, Jacob Powell ; New Windsor, Jo- 
seph Morton, David Hill. 

This Committee of Defense met September 7. and made Selah Strong 
its chairman and John Duer its secretary. It passed resolutions in har- 
mony with those of the public meeting, and appointed the chairman, the 
secretary, William A. Clark. Joseph Morell and Johannes Miller a com- 
mittee to tender the services of citizens in repairing the West Point forti- 
fications. At another meeting, September 17, the committee instructed 



THRWAR OF i8i2. 93 

the town committees immediately to collect subscriptions of money and 
labor, and report them to the General Committee, and also inquire into 
and report the quantity of arms and ammunition which the respective 
towns might need. 

October 25 it was reported from the Secretary of War that he would 
send a skillful engineer to West Point "to superintend the works and point 
out the sites most eligible for defense." 

Little was done, however, at West Point, but military companies 
of exempts were organized in several towns. 

The glad news of the treaty of peace, concluded in December, 1814, 
was celebrated in every town of the county with great enthusiasm, and 
included illuminations, cannon firing, speeches, toasts, and thanksgiving 
services in the churches. 

Peace with other nations continued from the close of the War of 1812 
until the war with Mexico, 1846-8. For this war New York City regi- 
ments drew a number of volunteers from Orange, but only one com- 
pany was recruited in the county, and this was in Goshen, and it became 
Co. K of the loth Regiment U. S. Infantry. Its captain was Alexander 
Wilkin and its lieutenant, Francis M. Cummins. Captain Wilkin re- 
signed in April, 1848, and Lieutenant Cummins was promoted to the 
captaincy. The regiment with this company was attached to the Army 
of the Rio Grande under General Taylor. 



94 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



CHAPTER X. 
THE CIVIL WAR. 

THE patriotic services of the people of Orange County in the four- 
years' Civil War of 1861-5 were as praiseworthy as those of their 
ancestors in the two wars with Great Britain, which founded 
the RepubHc upon a lasting basis of unparalleled prosperity and progress. 
It was as necessary for the continuance of that prosperity, and as a 
lesson of our republican experiment to the world, to defeat the efforts 
of the slave-holding States to rend the Union in twain, as it had been 
to compel the kingly power across the ocean to let us establish it. This 
Orange County was quick to perceive and act upon. 

Its Co. B, Third Regiment of Infantry, was the first company re- 
cruited and ready for muster in the State. Recruiting for it was com- 
menced in Newburgh immediately after the passage by the Legislature, 
April 16, 1861, of an act to authorize the equipment of volunteer 
militia for the public safety, the movement being started by Hon. Ste- 
phen W. Fullerton, Member of Assembly, and placed in charge of James 
A. Ramney. There were seventy-seven men enrolled when the company 
was mustered in for two years, May 14, 1861 — less than one month from 
the day the first man enlisted, and it had then been ready several days for 
mustering in. 

The following regiments and companies were recruited in Orange 
for the Civil War, and there were many other enlistments from the 
county in other regiments and in the Navy: 

Infantry: Third Regiment, Co. B, 1861 ; i8th, Co. D and Co. H, in part, 1861 ; 
36th, Co. B, 1861 ; 56th, Cos. A, B, D and E, 1861 ; 63d Regiment, 1864 ; 70th, Co. 
F, 1861 ; 87th, Co. C, 1861 ; 98th, Co. C, 1864; 124th Regiment, 1,047 men in 1862 and 
one company in 1864; i68th, 335 men, 1862; 176th, 272 men, 1862. 

Mounted Rifles: First Regiment, Co. C, 1861. 

Cavalry: Second Regiment, Co. B, 1861 ; 15th, Co. I, 146 men, 1864. 

Artillery: Fifteenth Regiment, Co. M, 82 men, 1864; 7th, 70 men, 1864; 7th Inde- 
pendent Battery, 1861. 

Militia: Nineteenth and 71st, 517 men, 1861-62. 



THE CI\'IL WAR. 95 

The following are the aggregates by towns of the men furnished and 
accepted in the county: 

April, i86r, to July, 1862. 

Towns. Volunteers. Militia. Total. 

Blooming Grove Zl • ■ 37 

Chester 31 2 33 

Cornwall 36 . . 36 

Crawford il 5 16 

Deer Park 104 . . 104 

Goshen 30 . . 30 

Greenville 3 . . 3 

Hamptonburgh 2 . . 2 

Highlands i . . I 

Minisink 17 . . 17 

Monroe 25 . . 25 

Montgomery 109 79 188 

Mount Hope 9 . . 9 

Newburgh 493 4^9 922 

New Windsor 26 2 28 

Southfield 12 . . 12 

Wallkill 447 447 

Warwick ICO . . 100 

Wawayanda 12 . . 12 

1,505 517 2,022 

In addition to the numbers tabulated there were in the 71st Militia 
four hundred and twenty-nine from Newburgh, seventy-nine from Mount 
Hope, five from Deer Park, two from Chester and two from Southfield. 

The totals tell their own story of patriotic zeal. 

Company B, Third Regiment, before referred to as the first to be 
recruited and ready for muster in the State, was mustered out at the 
end of its two years' service, but reorganized and was mustered out the 
second time after the close of the war, or August 28, 1865. It was in many 
fights, including those of Big Bethel, Fort Wagner, Bermuda Hundred, 
Petersburg. Fort Gilmer, Chapin's Farm, Fort Fisher and Wilmington. 
Its first captain, Stephen W. Fullerton, appointed April 20, 1861, died 
in Newburgh. September 11, 1861. and was succeeded by Ervine A. Jones, 
firj^t lieutenant. September 25. 1861. who was dismissed August 16. 1862. 
Alexander Mann, second and then first lieutenant, was promoted to captain, 
June 10, 1861, and discharged .August 31, 1864. Jeremiah D. Mabie, who 
wai; promoted from first sergeant to second lieutenant, and then to first 



96 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lieutenant of Co. B, was made captain of Co. F, June 15, 1863, and dis- 
charged September 18, 1864. James H. Reeve was advanced from fourth 
sergeant to first sergeant and then to second Heutenant of Co. B, was 
made captain of Co. I October 3, 1864, lost a leg at Fort Fisher, and was 
discharged June 26, 1865. 

The Eighteenth Regiment was recruited in several counties in response 
to the call of President Lincoln for 75,000 volunteers. It was mustered 
in for two years May 17, 1861, and mustered out May 28, 1863. Co. D 
was recruited from Orange County and organized at Middletown,. 
with John C. McGinnis, captain, George Barry, first lieutenant and 
Roswell M. Sayre, second lieutenant. The commissions of these officers 
date back into April. The enlistments were so many that thirty men of 
the company were separated to form a part of Co. H. The regiment sup- 
ported a battery in the first battle of Bull Run, but was not brought into 
action. It was stationed and remained near Alexandria the most of the 
time until McClellan's Army went to the Peninsula, and took part there 
in the seven days' fighting. Afterward it did guard duty at various 
points until it was mustered out. 

The following promotions of Orange County men in the i8th Regi- 
ment are on record, the dates being those of rank, some of which pre- 
ceded dates of commission : 

Thomas S. Lane, 2d Lieut., Nov. 6, 1861 ; ist Lieut., Nov. 10, 1862; mustered out 
with regiment. 

W. E. Carmichael, 2d Lieut., May 7, i86t ; ist Lieut., Dec. 2, 1861 ; resigned May 
16, 1862. 

Robert A. Malone, 2d Lieut., Nov. 11, 1861 ; Capt., Sept. 8, 1862; mustered out 
with regiment. 

Roswell M. Sayre, 2d Lieut., April 30, 1861 ; ist Lieut., Dec. 21, 1862; Capt., June 
26, 1862 ; mustered out with regiment. 

John S. King, ist Lieut., June 26, 1862; mustered out with regiment. 

George Barry, ist Lieut, April 30, 1861 ; killed at Gaines Mills, June 27, 1862. 

John C. McGinnis, Capt., April 30, 1861 ; Major, Dec. 2, 1861 ; Lieut. Col., Oct. 14, 
1862 ; mustered out with regiment. 

The 36th Regiment was organized in New York, and its Co. B was 
recruited in Orange County by John Raney of Newburgh, captain of 
Co. F, 19th Militia, assisted by Timothy Donoghue of the same company. 
The enlistments were for two years. Between May 13 and June 17, 
1861, they enlisted seventy-seven men; The regiment arrived in Washing- 
ton, July 14, 1861, and remained in camp until March, 1862. It was 



THE Cl\ IL WAR. 



97 



brii^aded under General Couch, and attaclied to General Buell's Division, 
afterward commanded by General Keyes. It went with General Mc- 
Clellan's Army to the Peninsula and was in the fights at Seven Pines, 
Gaines Mills and ^Malvern Hill. Afterward it saw much active and per- 
ilous service in \'irginia and Maryland. At Fredericksburg it was in 
General Deven's Brigade, which was the first of the left grand division to 
cross the Rappahannock, December ii, 1862, and covered the retreat of 
the army, December 15, Co. B being detailed to collect stragglers under 
the enemy's fire. May 3, Co. B, at Marye's Heights, captured a battery 
from a Mississippi brigade, and was the first to raise the colors on the 
heights. The regiment was a part of Sedgwick's Corps in the attack on 
Salem Heights. The last active service of the regiment and Co. B was 
in Hooker's campaign. The officers of the company were : 

John A. Raney, Capt., June 15, 1861 ; Major, Dec. 21, 1861 ; resigned Oct. 15, 1862. 

Timothy Donoghue, ist Lieut., June 15, 186 1 ; Capt., Nov. 12, 1861 ; mustered out 
with regiment, July 15, 1863. 

John M. Lewis, 2d Lieut.. June 15, 1864: ist Lieut., Dec. 2, 1861 ; mustered out 
with regiment. 

Charles B. Lewis, ist Sergt., Oct. T, i86r ; 2d Lieut., Nov. 12, 1861 ; ist Lieut, 
Aug. 20, 1862; mustered out with regiment. 

FIFTY-SIXTH REGIMENT. 

The 56th Regiment was formed of companies from Orange, Ulster, 
Sullivan and Delaware Counties, Companies A. B, D and E being re- 
cruited from Orange, as were al.so the 7th Battery and Co. C of Mounted 
Rifles, afterward detached. It was a three-years' regiment, but was 
continued by re-enlistment, and although the companies were all mus- 
tered in between July 31st and December loth, 1861. the regiment was not 
mustered out until October 17th. 1865. Its services in the army were 
varied and creditable throughout, and at times brilliant, and deserved the 
detailed record of its movements. hardshij)s. perils and achievements in 
the hi.story by John C. J-'isk and William II. I). Blake, members of the 
regiment, which was published in 1906. It is this well-written history 
herein epitomized. 

The 56th Regiment, first known as the Tenth Legion, was organized 
in July, 1861, by Charles H. \'anWyck. with headquarters at Xewburgh. 
It consisted of ten companies of infantry, one of sharpshooters, two 
of artillery and two of cavalry, when it went away, but in W^ashing^on 



98 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the four latter companies were detached and placed in the artillery 
division and cavalry corps. Its camp of rendezvous and instruction until 
November 6th was on a sandy plateau by the Hudson River, near New 
Windsor. In Washington it was made a part of the Provisional Brigade, 
including also the 52nd and 104th Pennsylvania, the nth Maine and the 
1 00th New York Regiments. The 56th New York was commanded by 
Colonel Charles H. VanWyck until he was breveted a Brigadier General. 
Companies A, B and E were recruited in Newburgh by Recruiting Of- 
ficers Thomas S. Marvel, Charles T. Thayer and William J. Williams, 
respectively ; Co. C of mounted rifles in Montgomery by Frederick 
Decker, and Co. D in Warwick by John J. Wheeler. 

The instructing officer at the New Windsor camp was Charles A. 
Van Home Ellis, of the 71st New York Militia, and he proved to be 
an efficient drill-master in regimental and company movements and the 
manual of arms, in which officers and men made rapid progress and be- 
came expert before leaving for the seat of war. When the regiment 
reached New York General Stuart L. Woodford presented to it a white 
silk banner in behalf of a patriotic society called "The Sons of Orange 
and Sullivan," and this was carried through the whole war. On arriv- 
ing in Washington in November the regiment was sent to Kalorama 
Heights, near Georgetown, and tented there about two weeks. The 
weather was severe, and many of the men contracted colds, pneumonia 
and rheumatism from unaccustomed exposures, which also proved fatal 
to some of them. Afterward they camped a few weeks by Rock Creek, 
in the suburbs of Georgetown, and in January, 1862, went into the 
Carver barracks on Meridian Hill. The brigade, under General Naglee, 
had then become one of the best-drilled in the army, and President 
Lincoln and family and General Scott and daughter repeatedly came 
to Meridian Hill to witness its parade. It was in the grand review of 
140,000 men under General McClellan which preceded the movement 
to the Peninsula, and on March 26th crossed the Long Bridge in Casey's 
division of four brigades, which marched thence to Alexandria, where 
on April ist they started down the Potomac on the steamer "Constitution" 
for the Peninsula, reached Hampton Roads in the evening of April 2nd, 
and proceeded to Newport News April 3d. On th's last trip the men 
had their first experience under fire, but the shells which the rebels shot 
at them from Sewell's Point fell short. 



THE CI\IL WAR. 99 

At Newport News they went into camp on a large plantation, waited 
for the rest of the army a few days, and marched with it to Yorktown. 
Here the men on picket line were almost constantly under fire, and all 
were kept in a fever of excitement by the roar of cannon and cracks 
of rifles along the whole line from river to river, day and night. 

The first real baptism of fire experienced by the 56th was on April 
i6th, when a large force of the enemy came out and fell on the left of 
the division near Lee's Mills. The rebels were repulsed, and the officers 
commended the men of the regiment for their courage and steadiness 
under fire. May 5th they had more fighting experience after a swifl 
march of the day before to the front of Fort McGruder in the suburbs 
of Williamsburgh. Here they took part in a charge on their enemies 
with fixed bayonets, which caused the latter to flee in confusion leaving 
many dead and wounded and about 600 prisoners. They remained in 
line of battle all night, standing in deep mud, and drenched by a driz- 
zling rain. When, the next afternoon, they were each given three bis- 
cuits of hardtack it was the first food they had eaten in two days, and 
ended the first experience of intense gnawing hunger with the most of 
them. May 9th they followed the retreating rebels over roads deep 
with mud, exchanging shots with them day after day, sleeping on the 
ground at night, wading streams waist-deep sometimes, with little to 
eat. and much of the time only what they could jayhawk. May 19th 
thc\ drove the enemy across the Chickahominy at a point opposite 
Richmond, and as all the bridges had been destroyed, waded the next day 
across the Oozy river without much opposition, and waited for the rest of 
the corps, which followed in three days, and crossed the river on a bridge 
which had meanwhile been constructed for them. During the next three 
days the regiment was kept on the move making reconnoissances and 
scouting, and scouted to within four miles of the city of Richmond. 

May 28th the 56th found itself assigned with Casey's division to a 
position on the right of the Williamsburgh turnpike, remained on picket 
till sometime after the attack of the 3i.'^t and captured a number of the 
enemy's skirmishers. Later, when the two lines of battle were formed, 
it was placed to support Spratt's battery, but the battery's captain re- 
lievefl it and left the division lying on the ground exposed to the plunging 
fire of the enenr 's artillery, which killed the men "at a fearful rate." 
Thev then formed in the e(\^e of the woods, and there fought two hours, 



100 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and Colonel Van Wyck was wounded in the leg by a piece of shell. The 
division that day opposed a force of 30,000, and held the line. Three 
times the enemy charged to within reach of their bayonets, and each 
time was driven back. The division made one of the most bloody and 
obstinate fights of the war, and lost nearly half of its men, but, it was 
believed, saved the army of the Potomac from great disaster. 

Then to Malvern Hill. On July i the division, after a tedious march, 
lay down on the hill near a large house, and there all day witnessed the 
cannonading of 160 Union guns, expecting every moment to be ordered 
to assist in the frequent fierce assaults made by the Army of Virginia in 
three divisions, "only to be torn in pieces and hurled back again to the 
cover of the woods by the awful storm of shot and shell and volleys of 
the infantry supports." But the brigade was not moved from its re- 
served position until late in the afternoon, when it was sent to the 
southern slope of the hill, and on the 2nd acted as rear guard of the 
whole retreating army, being in charge of the artillery and wagon trains. 
The enemy's advance attacked it at Carter's Hill, but was repulsed. The 
next day breastworks were thrown up, and the army rested. On July 
7th the men were cheered by a visit and praise from President Lincoln. 
It was thought that the army would move forward and capture Rich- 
mond, but General McClellan received orders to withdraw by way of 
Aquia Creek and attack Richmond from the Rappahannock. The Chicka - 
hominy was crossed October 16 in weather so hot that large numbers of 
the officers and men dropped by the wayside exhausted, and that night 
when the regiment bivouacked not more than 100 men stacked arms, and 
hardly an officer except the mounted ones was with them. Key's corps, in- 
cluding the 56th Regiment, was left at Yorktown to cover the embarka- 
tion. The Peninsula campaign *was ended. 

General Naglee's brigade remained in and about Yorktown for j-ome- 
time, doing picket duty and demolishing earthworks. On December 11 it 
went on a raid into Gloucester, Kings and Queens Counties, and brought 
back horses, mules, cattle, sheep and fowls. The brigade marched all night 
closely followed by the enemy, the 56th doing excellent service as the rear 
guard. On December 29th the brigade embarked on steamer for More- 
head City, N. C, and went from there to Newbern, near which it re- 
mained two weeks. On January 8, 1863, orders were read informing the 
men of the 56th that their regiment had been attached to the i8th Corps, 



THE CI\'IL WAR. loi 

2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, with General Xaglee as division commander, 
and Colonel Davis of the 104th Pa. as the brigade commander. General 
Naglee, on taking leave, issued an order naming the important events in 
the history of the brigade in which it acted a conspicuous part, and which 
should be inscribed upon the regimental banners. The 56th was included 
in all of them. 

General Naglee also characterized the work and behavior of the brigade 
in each of the events. 

In connection with the preparations to attack Charleston the brigade 
went to St. Helena Island and waited there until about April ist. Thence 
to woods near the shore of Edisto Harbor, where monitors and gun- 
boats lay at anchor, and covered its landing by shelling the woods. 
After landing it followed the retreating enemy, and some of the men 
were wounded. While in camp here it was several times attacked in 
night forays and some of its picket men captured. Here the 56th was 
temporarily brigaded with that of General Howell in General Terrv's di- 
vision, under General Gilmore of the Tenth Corps. On July i6th. this 
division, 4,000 strong, was attacked by a superior force of Georgia troops, 
but with the aid of the gunboats they were driven off with a loss of 200 
prisoners. Soon afterward the division went to Folly Island, and here, 
while the bombardment of Forts Wagner and Gregg was in progress, 
the men were engaged in arduous duties and got but little rest. August 16 
they sailed to Beaufort, S. C, and went into camp, with the regiment 
sadly reduced in numbers and many sick. They remained there till Sep- 
tember 3, 1864, with the exception of an expedition to John's Island in 
July. 

In February. 1864. the regiment veteranized, the most of the men re- 
enlisting, and was mustered in as a veteran regiment I-\'l)ruary 29. In 
March it went north on a furlough and returned May 18. commanded by 
Colonel Tyler. During its stay at Beaufort about 400 new men had been re- 
cruited for it by officers sent north. The regiment went from Beaufort 
to John's Island, near Charleston. July ist. and here became a part of 
J. P. Hatch's division. On July 4th it had the most trying march of the 
year on account of the extreme heat and the soft sand. Manv of the 
men were sunstruck. and some of them died. The march was continued 
the next morning to within seven miles of Charleston, when, hearing 
that rebel cavalrv were in their rear, thev were ordered back. The next 



102 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

day they started again for the front, and had to do some fighting. July 
9th they were attacked by the rebels in force in a dense fog. A surprise 
was intended, but the rebels were met with volleys of grape and canister, 
and were twice repulsed. On July loth, the regiment went back to Beau- 
fort, and the St. John's expedition passed into history. It was regarded 
as the most exciting and perilous scouting expedition the regiment was 
ever engaged in, but its object was accomplished. It remained at Beau- 
fort until September 3, when it moved over to Morris Island and assisted 
in the siege of Charleston. Here the men could see every shot from their 
batteries that struck Fort Sumter, and the firing was kept up night and 
day. The heat was extreme, the whole island was covered with shifting 
sand, which filled eyes, ears and hair, the heavy fogs at night were like 
a drenching rain, and all the while they were under the fire of the rebel 
forts and batteries, shells from which burst over their heads ; but they 
had the compensation of seeing their own shells burst in the city of 
Charleston. 

Many of the men became afflicted with scurvy, and the effective force 
of the regiment was reduced to 600 men, one-half of whom were detailed 
each day and night for field duty. Otherwise their duties were severe, and 
in October the nights became very cold, and, being without fuel, caused 
them much suffering. They remained there until November 27, when 
they were taken to Boyd's Point, and the next morning were marched by 
General Potter toward Honey Hill, where they were surprised by a con- 
cealed rebel battery, and there was a bloody fight in which the 56th lost 
fifty men in killed and wounded, and the division 746, and they were 
obliged to fall back. On December 3d the brigade, after a lively skirmish, 
returned to its old camp, and three days later went up Broad River to 
Deveaux Neck, near which it had many of its men killed and wounded 
in a severe fight. The next day it was attacked by a large force, and 
there was a bloody fight in which each man fired sixty rounds and the 
rebels were repulsed, but resisted stubbornly and retired slowly. In this 
battle the 56th encountered the 5th Georgia Regiment, drove it from 
its position, captured its colors, and lost twenty-four men in killed and 
wounded. 

The camp was thirty-six miles north of Savannah and seventy from 
Charleston. December 23d the news came that General Sherman had 
occupied Savannah. On the 29th Colonel Tyler was put in comman 1 



THE CIVIL WAR. " 103 

of three regiments, including the 56th, and they advanced to ascertain the 
strengtli of the enemy. They encountered his picket Hne which resisted 
but fell back, and killed and wounded seventeen of Tyler's men. The camp 
was undisturbed until January 7th, when a rirted gun began shelling them 
and kept it up for a week, night and day. This was not restful, but the 
camp was so sandy that not more than half the percussion shells burst, and 
not a man was injured by them. January 15th it was discovered that the 
rebels had left, and our men pushed on and took possession of Fort Coo- 
sawhatchie. Here the rations were greatly improved by foraging expedi- 
tions. On the 17th they were visited by Generals Sherman and Howard. 
On the 29th the 56th remained at the fort while the rest of the brigade 
left to relieve General Sherman's forces at Poctaligo. The 56th did not 
join it until February 16, and afterward the brigade made a slow march 
to Ashley River, across which lay Charleston, arriving there February 28. 
The city had been evacuated after the cotton warehouses, quartermasters' 
stores, bridges, vessels, etc., had been burnt by order of General Hardie. 
March ist the division started to pursue him, and if possible prevent him 
from joining General Johnston's army. It marched several days without 
finding any rebels, then was ordered to return and was back in 
Charleston on the 9th. This expedition, composed of General Pot- 
ter's entire division, had marched ninety miles. It went on March 
nth to the village of Mt. Pleasant, near Charleston, and re- 
mained there until April 2n(l, when it went to Georgetown. Major 
Eliphas Smilh being in command of companies A, R. C. D and E of the 
56th. A and B remained in Georgetown as a part of the garrison. C was 
sent as guard of a transport up the Santee River, and B and D were 
attached to the 157th regiment, and went with it on the "Kingsville 
expedition." Kingsville was about 135 miles from Georgetown, and the 
rebels had run in there from points on Sherman's march as many as 25 
locomotives and 200 cars, with large quantities of stores and ammuni- 
tion. After a troublesome march, with some hard fighting, the expedi- 
tion reached Kingsville April 10. On the 9th companies B and D of the 
56th had gallantly charged a rebel battery, in the face of a fusilade, and 
captured it, but with a loss in killed and wounded of fifteen men. 

The next day news was received of the fall of Petersburgh and the 
surrender of General Lee's army. In General Potter's order announcing 
it he returned "special thanks to Lieutenant-Colonel Carmichael of the 



104 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

157th New York and detachment of the 56th New York for the skilful 
and gallant manner in which they carried the enemy's battery and drove 
him in confusion from the field." 

The locomotives and cars at Kingsville were destroyed, and the expe- 
dition marched back happy to their old camp at Mt. Pleasant. The 
fightings and severe hardships were ended at last. 

April 14 the men witnessed the raising of the Union flag at Fort Sum- 
ter on the 4th anniversary of its surrender. Soon the regiment was 
united again at Summerville, and remained near there until the men were 
paid up. It started homeward October 6th, and was disbanded and mus- 
tered out on Hart's Island, New York Harbor, November loth. but a num- 
ber of the men whose terms had expired had been discharged on July 5th. 

During its last campaign in South Carolina the distances the regiment 
had traversed were about as follows : Beaufort to Morris Island, seventy 
miles ; to Coosawatchie by way of Honey Hill and Deveaux Neck, ninety 
miles; to Charleston, seventy miles; to Santee River and return, eighty 
miles ; Kingsville raid, 390 miles ; to Newberry by way of Orangeburg and 
Columbia, 166 miles ; to Chester, forty-five miles ; to Charleston by way of 
Winsboro, Columbia and Florence, 205 miles — all during the regiment's 
last year of service. 

The regiment arrived in New York City October 20, 1865, was quar- 
tered in the Battery barracks until November 9, was paid up and dis- 
charged November 10. 

From first to last there were 2,176 men and boys enlisted and assigned 
to the 56th regiment. 

The incomplete record shows the names of forty-one killed in battle, 
twenty-three died of wounds; 216 died of disease; 170 wounded and re- 
covered; 415 discharged for disability and wounds; sixty-seven trans- 
ferred to other commands ; five captured and paroled. 

Following is a list of the engagements in which the regiment took part : 



Engagements of the Fifty-sixth. 

Siege of Yorktown, Va., April 15 to May 4, 1862. 

Lee's Mills, Va., April 28, 1862. 

Williamsburgh, Va., May 5, 1862. 

Bottoms and Turkey Island Bridge, Va., May 23, 1862. 

Savage Station, Va., May 25, 1862. 

Fair Oaks, Va.. May 31, 1862. 



THE CIVIL WAR. 105 

7. Seven Days' Battle, June 25 to July 2, 1862. 

8. Railroad and Bottoms Bridge, Va., June 28 and 29. 1862. 

9. White Oak Swamp Bridge, Va., June 30, 1862. 

10. Malvern Hill, Va., July i, 1862. 

11. Carter's Hill, Va., July 2, 1862. 

12. Woods' Cross Roads, Va., Dec. 14, 1862. 

13. Seabrook Island, S. C, June 18, 1863. 

14. Grimball's Landing, S. C., July 16, 1863. 

15. Siege of Fort Wagner, S. C, July 18, 1863. 

16. Siege of Charleston, S. C, August and September, 1863. 

17. Johns Island, S. C. Julv i to 10, 1864. 

18. Honey Hill, S. C, Nov."30, 1864. 

19. Coosawhatchie, S. C, Dec. 3, 1864. 

20. Boyd's Point, S. C, Dec. 5, 1864. 

21. Deveaux Xeck, S. C, Dec. 6, 1864. 

22. Deveaux Xeck, S. C, Dec. 7, 1864. 

23. Deveaux Neck, S. C, Dec. 9. 1864. 

24. Deveaux Xeck, S. C, Dec. 19, 1864. 

25. Deveaux Xeck, S. C, Dec. 29, 1864. 

26. Manningsville, S. C, April 8, 1865. 
2-7. Dingle's Mills, S. C, April 9, 1865. 

REGIMENTAL AXD COMPANY OFFICERS. 

COLONELS. 

Charles H. Van Wyck, and Brig. Gen., U. S. V. 
Rockwell Tyler, not mustered. 

LIEL'TEX.AXT-COLOXELS. 

James Jordan, to August S, 1862. 

Frederick Decker, not mustered. 

John J. Wheeler, to Feb. 11, 1864. 

Rockwell Tyler, to muster out and Brevet Colonel. 

Eliphas Smith, not mustered. 



M.\JORS. 



Jacob Sharpe, to Aug. 5, 1862. 
John J. Wheeler, to Dec. 15, 1862. 
Rockwell Tyler, to Feb. 27, 1864. 
Eliphas Smith, to Oct. 17, 1865. 
James DuBois, not mustered. 

ADJUTANTS. 

Eli H. Evans, to Oct. 25, 1863. 

Henri B. Loomis, to muster out of regiment. 

QUARTERM.XSTERS. 

John B. Gerard, to Sept. 5, 1862. 

Jesse F. Schafer. to Oct. 15, 1864, from Co. K. 

Addison J. Clements, to muster out of regiment, from Co. F. 



io6 ■ THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



SURGEONS. 



Solomon Van Etten, to Sept. 28, 1864. 

George H. Fossard, Oct. 7, 1864, to July 5, 1865. 

Ira S. Bradner,' Sept. 19, 1865 ; not mustered. 

ASSISTANT SURGEONS. 

O. A. Carrol, Sept. 2, 1861, to May 13, 1863, 
Albert S. Turner, Aug. 9, 1862, to Nov. 18, 1863. 
Daniel S. Hardenburgh, Nov. 11, 1863, to April i, 1865. 
Ira S. Bradner, April 25, 1863, to muster out of regiment. 
George K. Sayer, Brevet ist Lieut, and Asst. Surg. 

HOSPITAL STEWARD. 

George K. Sayer, from Oct. 20, 1861, to muster out of regiment. 

CHAPLAINS, 

Charles Shelling, to Dec. 23, 1862. 

George P. Van Wyck, Dec. 30, 1862, to muster out of regiment. 

SERGEANT MAJORS. 

William N. Phillips, to Jan. 18, 1862. 

Demmon S. Decker, Co. F, to Feb. 9, 1862. 

Francis Hines, Co. E, to Aug. 8, 1862. 

John Metcalf, Co. A, to Dec. 23, 1863. 

Francis Might, Co. G, to July i, 1864. 

Robert C. Roper, Co. H, to Jan. i, 1865. 

James Gowdy, Co. C, to May 18, 1865. 

Frank Hotchkin, Co. F, to muster out of regiment. 

QUARTERMASTER SERGEANTS. 

Jesse F. Schafer, original, to Feb. 2"^, 1862. 

Noah D. Smith, Co. H, to muster out of regiment. 

COMMISSARY SERGEANTS. 

Isaac Rosa, original, to April 12, 1862. 

William H. Merphy, Co. K, to Nov. 20, 1864. 

William H. D. Blake, Co. C, Nov. 22, 1864, to muster out of regiment. 

REGIMENTAL BAND.- 

Berger, Albert B. King, Hiram T. 

Biddle, John Kirkpatrick, Joseph 

Canfield, George Little, James, Jr. 

Count, Thomas H. Sloat, Cornelius J. 

Cromwell, Charles Stewart, William H. 

Depuy, Elias Turner, Joshua B. 

Depuy, George Tuthill, Charles 

Depuy, Calvin Van Cleft, Theodore H. 

Frost, William N. Way, Richard D. 

Harding, Elisha C. Welch, Theodore H. 

King, George J. Wheat, Robert A. 




1 emple Hill Monument, New Windsor. 



THE C1\1L WAR. 



107 



MUSICIANS — DRUM AND FIFE CORPS. 



Aber, David, Co. B. 
Aher, George, Co. B. 
Baird, Charles, Co. H. 
Bender, Conrad, Co. D. 
Bradncr, Fred H., Co. F. 
DeSylvia, Dwight, Co. F. 
Graham. Nathaniel, Co. '. 
Grannis, James H., Co. H. 
Hamilton, William, Co. B. 
Howe, Wcstley, Co. H. 
Kennedy, Le\vi.s E., Co. G. 
King, Henry, Co. D. 
Kinslcr, George, Co. K. 



Lamoreu.x, Timothy, Co. F. 
Mead, John, Co. L. 
Miller, Ilarman B., Co. A. 
Miller, Thomas, Co. G. 
Nixon, Edward, Co. G. 
Pitts, Charles V. L., Co. H. 
Reynolds, Newell F., Co. D. 
Robinson, John T., Co. A. 
Robinson, Henry, Co. C. 
Smith, Cornelius. Co. F. 
Smith, William T., Co. I. 
Wcightman, Charles, Co. E 
Young, William, Co. F. 



RECORD OF FIELD AND STAFF OFFICERS — ORIGINAL 

VanWyck, Charles — Age, 37 years. Enrolled at Newburgh, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as Colonel, Sept. 4, 1861 ; mustered out with regiment, Oct. 17, 1865, at 
Charleston, S. C. Commissioned Colonel, Nov. 13, 1862, with rank from Sept. 4, 
1861. Original. Brevet Brig. General, U. S. V. Brigadier General from Sept. 27, 
1865; mustered out Jan. 15, 1866. 

Jourdan, James. — Age, 29 years. Enrolled at Brooklyn to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as Lieutenant Colonel, Dec. 19, 1861 ; discharged, Aug. 5, 1862; prior 
service as Major 84th Infantry. Commissioned Lieutenant Colonel, Dec. 20, 1861, 
with rank from Dec. 19, 1861. Original. 

Sharpe, Jacob. — Age, 27 years. Enrolled at Newburgh, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as Major, Sept. 3, 1861 ; discharged Aug. 5, 1862. Commissioned Major, 
June 28, 1862, with rank from Sept. 6, 1861. Original. Subsequent service in the 
156th Regiment, N. Y. Infantry Vols., as Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel. 

Evans, Eli H. — Age, 25 years. Enrolled, July 31, 1861, at Newburgh, to serve 3 
years: mustered in as Adjutant, Sept. i, 1861 ; dishonorably discharged, Oct. r, 1863; 
also borne as First Lieutenant on rolls of Company A. Commissioned First Lieu- 
tenant and Adjutant, Aug. i, 1862, with rank from Sept. i, 1861. Original. 

Gerard, John C. — Age, 32 years. Enrolled, July 21, 1861, at Newburgh, to serve 3 
years: mustered in as Quartermaster, July 31, 1861 : discharged Sept. 4, 1862. Com 
missioned First Lieutenant and Quartermaster, Aug. 7, 1862, with rank from July 
31, t86i. Original. 

Shelling, Charles — Age, 35 years. Enrolled at Newburgh to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as Chaplain, Sept. 16, 1861 ; discharged, Dec. 2;^, 1862. Commissioned 
Chaplain, Aug. 7, 1862, with rank from Sept. 16, 1861. Original. 

VanWyck, George P. — Age, 35 years. Enrolled at Seabrook Island, S. C. to 
serve 3 years; mustered in as Chaplain, April 8. 1863: mustered out, Oct. 17, 1865, 
while absent with leave. Commissioned Chaplain. Dec. 30, 1862, with rank from 
same date, vice Charles Shelling, resigned. 

i 

Phillips. William N. — .Age. 30 years. Enlisted. Sept. IQ, i86t, at Newburgh, to 
serve 3 years ; mustered in as Sergeant Major. Oct. i, 1861 ; died of typhoid fever, 
Jan. 4, 1862, at Warren Hospital. Washington, D. C. 



io8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

DISCHARGED. 

James Jourdan, Aug. 5, 1862, Lieutenant Colonel. 

Jacob Sharpe, Aug. 5, 1862, Major. 

Eli H. Evans, Oct. i, 1863, Adjutant. 

John C. Gerard, Sept. 4, 1862, Quartermaster. 

Charles Shelling, Dec. 23, 1862, Chaplain. 

Frederick Decker, Nov. 23, 1862, Lieutenant Colonel 

John J. Wheeler, Feb. 11, 1864, Lieutenant Colonel. 

SURGEONS, ASSISTANT SURGEONS AND HOSPITAL STEWARDS. 

Bradner, Ira S. — Enrolled, April 25, 1863, at Hilton Head, S. C, to serve 3 years ; 
mustered in as Assistant Surgeon, May 12, 1863 ; commissioned as Surgeon, Sept. 
19, 1865; mustered out with regiment, Oct. 17, 1865, at Charleston, S. C. Commis- 
sioned Assistant Surgeon, May 4, 1863, with rank from April 25, 1863, vice O. A. 
Carroll, promoted in 143d Infantry; Surgeon, Sept. 19, 1865, with rank from Sept. 
19, 1865, vice G. W. Fossard, resigned. 

Carroll, Oscar A. — Age, 34 years. Enrolled, Sept. 2, 1861, at Newbtirgh, to serve 
3 years ; mustered in as Assistant Surgeon, Sept. 23, 1861 ; mustered out May 13, 

1863, for promotion to Surgeon, 143d Infantry. Commissioned Assistant Surgeon, 
Aug. 7, 1862, with rank from Sept. 23, 1861. Original. 

Fossard, George H. — Age, 25 years. Enrolled, Oct. 7, 1864, at Morris Island, S. 
C, to serve 3 years; mustered in as Surgeon, Nov. s, 1864; discharged July 5, 1865; 
prior service as Assistant Surgeon, 146th Infantry. Commissioned Surgeon, Oct. 7, 

1864, with rank from Oct. 7, 1864, vice S. Van Etten, mustered out. 
Hardenberg, Daniel S. — Age, 23 years. Enrolled, Nov. 11, 1863, at Beaufort, 

S. C, to serve 3 years; mustered in as Assistant Surgeon, Dec. 11, 1863; discharged, 
April I, 1865. Commissioned Assistant Surgeon, Nov. 13, 1863, with rank from 
Nov. II, 1863, vice A. L. Turner, promoted. 

Sayre, George K. — Age, 22 years. EnHsted at Newburgh, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as Hospital Steward, Oct. 20, 1861 ; re-enlisted as a veteran, Feb. 24, 
1864; mustered out with regiment, Oct. 17, 1865, at Charleston, S. C. ; also borne as 
Sayer. Breveted First Lieutenant and Assistant Surgeon. 

Turner, Albert S. — Age, 35 years. Enrolled at Yorktown, Va., to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as Assistant Surgeon, Aug. 9, 1862; discharged, June 30, 1863, for 
promotion to Surgeon, 103d Infantry. Commissioned Assistant Surgeon, Aug. 29, 
1862, with rank from Aug. 19, 1862. 

Van Etten, Solomon — Age, 2^ years. Enrolled at Newburgh, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as Surgeon, Sept. 23, 1861 ; mustered out, Oct. 7, 1864 ; also borne 
as Fetterman Van Ettan. Commissioned Surgeon, Sept. 23, 1861, with rank from 
Aug. 7, 1861. Original. 

MEMBERS OF BAND. 

Biddle, John — Age, 23 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and mus- 
tered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, i86i, at Wash- 
ington, D. C. 

Canfield, George. — Age, 15 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Count, Thomas H. — Age, 35 years. Enlisted at EUenville, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 




Henry Seacord. 



THE C1\IL WAR. 109 

Cromwell, Charles — Age, 27 years. Enlisted at Middlctown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Dcpuy, George — Age, 29 years. Was enrolled Sept. 10, 1861, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as musician in band; discharged, Dec. 6, 1861, at Washington, D. 
C, by General Order, No. 91, War Department. 

Harding. Elislia C. — Age, 26 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as band leader, Sept. 21, 186 1 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

King, George J. — Age, 31 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

King, Hiram T.— Age, 27 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Kirkpatrick, Joseph — Age, 25 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, 
at Washington, D. C. Subsequent service in the Cavalry. 

Little, James, Jr. — Age 24 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Stewart, William H. — Age, 24 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as musician in band, Xov. i, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, i8i52, at 
Washington, D. C. Subsequent service in the Engineer Corps, and Captain in the 
Regular Army. 

Tuthill, Charles — Age, 24 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Van Cleft, Theodore H. — Age, 24 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 
years, and mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 : mustered out, March i, 
1862, at Washington, D. C. 

Way, Richard D. — Age, 24 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, ancf 
nuistered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Welch, Theodore H. — Age, 23 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, 
and mustered in as musician in band, Sept. 21, 1861 ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

Wheat, Robert A. — Age, 25 years. Enlisted at Middletown, to serve 3 years, and 
mustered in as musician in band, Sei)t. 21, i86r ; mustered out, March i, 1862, at 
Washington, D. C. 

CoMP.\NY A. 

Captains — Thomas S. Marvel. Jr., James H. F. Milton, John Metcalf. 

First Lieutenants — Thomas B. Pope. Thomas Atwood, John Metcalf, Robert C. 
Roper. 

Second Lieutenants — Peter B. Steele, Wilbur F. Still, Robert C. Roper, George 
R. Black, Daniel R. Franklin, Wilbur F. Still. 

CoMP.\NY B. 

Captains — Charles F. Thayer, James H. Smith, Norman Perkins, Alfred W. 
Loomis, Melville Scars. 



no THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

First Lieutenants — Effingham Vanderburgh, Alfred W. Lomas, James J. Cox, 
Alphonse Richter, Edward H. Lomas, Jeremiah Strickland. 

Second Lieutenants — Alfred W. Lomas, James J. Cox, Isaac Roosa, Alphonse 
Richter, Algernon Rose, Jesse L. Stivers, Calvin Lambert. 

Company D. 

Captains — John J. Wheeler, Edward Wheeler, John Connell. 
First Lieutenants — Edward Wheeler, Isaac Beckett, William J. Sayre. 
Second Lieutenants — Isaac Beckett, John Connell, Robert E. Halstead, Benjamin 
F. Clark, William J. Sayre. 

Company E. 

Captains — William J. Williams, Daniel D. Eiting, James J. Cox. 

First Lieutenants — Edgar E. Morse, Joseph A. Holmes, John L. Thompkins, 
Francis Hines, Meeker G. Bell. 

Second Lieutenants — Meeker G. Bell, Francis Hines, Edward J. Scranton, Clem- 
ent B. Newkirk. 

ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FOURTH REGIMENT. 

The following brief story of the organization and military career of 
the 124th N. Y. V. is condensed from the history of the regiment pre- 
pared by Colonel Charles H. Weygant and published in 1877. 

The 124th was distinctively an Orange Cotmty regiment, as all its 
companies were recruited in the county under President Lincoln's call 
of July I, 1862, for 300,000 three years' men. The day after this call 
was issued Governor Morgan made an appeal to the people of New York 
urging them to respond promptly to the President's wish and the country's 
needs. The State was immediately divided into military districts and a 
committee of prominent citizens was appointed for each, to superintend 
the work of enlistment and recommend suitable persons for the officers 
of the regiments to be raised. Orange and Sullivan Counties constituted 
one of these districts, and its military committee was composed as fol- 
lows: 

Hon. Robert Denniston, Blooming Grove; Hon. Andrew S. Murray, 
Goshen; Hugh S. Bull, Montgomery; Albert Post, Newburgh; James 
M. Barrett, Cornwall ; Alexander Moore, Washingtonville ; Morgan 
Shint, Monroe. 

A little later the following were added to the committee : E. A. Brews- 
ter and William Fullerton, Newburgh ; C. H. Winfield, Thomas Edsall 
and Silas Horton, Goshen ; James Cromwell and William Avery, Corn- 
wall; C. C. McQuoid, Halstead Sweet, John G. Walkin and John Cum- 
mings, Wallkill ; Charles J. St. John, John Conkling. Orville J. Brown 



THE CI\1L WAR. in 

and C. M. Lawrence, Port Jervis ; C. B. Xewkirk, Monroe; A. S. Dodge, 
Mount Hope; Dorastus Brown, Greenville; A. F. Schofield, Montgom- 
ery ; A. G. Owen, Blooming Grove ; John Cowdrey and Thomas Welling, 
Warwick. 

The committee recommended A. Van Home Ellis, of New Windsor, 
then a captain in the service, for colonel of the regiment which it was 
proposed to raise in Orange, and to have general charge of the recruit- 
ing. The gloomy conditions at the seat of war made enlistments slow 
throughout the State. Colonel Ellis, after his selection by the committee at 
its first meeting on June nth, had gone to work immediately, and opened 
recruiting offices in every town, yet only eight men in all were enlisted 
in the county during the month. Then, when it was seen that the national 
capital was again in danger of capture, public meetings were held, private 
bounties were offered, money for the support of the families of volun- 
teers were raised, and there was a general revival of patriotic enthusi- 
asm. Although up to August 8th not more than a score of volunteers 
had reported at Colonel Ellis's headquarters, fifteen days later the regi- 
ment was fully organized and ready to march to the front. 

The regimental ofificers then were : A. \'an Home Ellis, colonel ; F. AI. 
Cummins, lieutenant colonel; James Cromwell, major; John H. Thomp- 
son, surgeon ; T. Scott Bradner. chaplain ; Augustus Denniston, quarter- 
master; De Peyster Arden. adjutant; Edward Marshall, assistant sur- 
geon ; R. V. K. Montfort, 2nd assistant surgeon. 

These field officers had all served honorably in the Union army, and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Cummins had been a commissioncl officer in the Mex- 
ican War. 

The members of the regiment's band were : Drum ALijor. Hart ; 

buglers, Wm. B. Wood, Moses P. Ross ; fifes, John G. Buckley. Charles 
Whitehead. Arthur Haigh. Geo. W. Dimick. Henry C. Payne; drums, 
Robert L. Travis, A. J. Millspaugh. Geo. W. Camfield. John N. Cole, 
R. D. Stephens. Charles W. Bodle. Henry U. Cannon. Wm. Hamilton, 
Henry Hoofman. C. \'an Gordon. Jehue Price. J. M. Merritt. W. Johns- 
ton. James McElroy. Samuel W. Weeden. 

The captains of the several companies were: A. Charles H. Wcygant ; 
B. Henry S. Murray : C. Wm. Silliman ; D. James W. Benedict : E. Wm. 
A. McBirney; F. Ira S. Bush; G. Isaac Nicoll ; H. David Crist; I, 
Leander Clark; K. Wm. A. Jackson. 



112 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Delay in obtaining guns postponed the mustering in of the regiment 
until September 5th, and the next day it broke camp at Goshen and 
started for Washington. Meanwhile it had been presented by Charles 
H. Wintield, in behalf of the ladies of Orange, with a stand of colors. 
Its tine appearance in New York inspired a paragraph of praise from the 
Tribune, which said that the most influential families of Orange County 
were represented in its ranks, and that it contained "the very cream of 
the regimental district." 

Three days afterward they were in Washington, and the first nighl 
there slept on the ground and stone block in front of the Capitol. The 
next day they marched to Camp Chase on Arlington Heights, and two 
or three days later moved to a spot which they christened Camp Ellis. 
Here they were attached to Piatt's brigade of Whipple's division of 
Hemtzleman's corps. The other regiments in the brigade were the 122nd 
Pa. (a nine months regiment), the 86th N. Y., and the ist Ohio battery. 
The 124th and 86th regiments remained toge^TeT' during the war. The 
latter and the Ohio battery were already veterans. 

The 124th broke camp again September 25th, went to Miners' Hill, 
and here the men became experienced in picket duties. Tents were struck 
October i6th, and the next day they started in a drizzling rain with their 
division to join the main army on the Maryland side of the Potomac in 
the vicinity of Harper's Ferry. A freight train carried them in great 
discomfort from Washington to Knoxville, eight miles from Harper's 
Ferry, and they became a part of the Army of the Potomac. October 
25th they again received marching orders, and were in motion from sup- 
per time till midnight, when they bivouacked near Berlin, where a pon- 
toon bridge was being laid. Across this they went with tha entire army 
of 100,000 men, and were afterward halted in a muddy cornfield near 
Lovettsville, where they had to stay all night in rain, a cold wind and 
mud, and had their first realization of the sufferings of army life. The 
next morning thirty of the men were unfit for duty. Short marches were 
continued, with stops of two or three days, they being in the advance with 
the rest of Whipple division a part of the time, and then they looked from 
a peak of the Blue Ridge upon some white tents of the enemy. The 
object of the movement had been to cut off a force of his infantry, but it 
was too late and the division was ordered to retrace its steps. 

At Orleans they learned that McClellan had been succeeded by Burn- 



THE CI\"1L WAR. 113 

side as coniiiiainlcr oi the Army of the i'utomac. Xovcmber iith they 
marclied to Waterloo, and here some of the men of Co. B, commanded by 
Lieutenant W. E. Weygant, were part of a detail which had a fight with 
the enemy's pickets and captured two prisoners. November i6th they 
marched to Warrenton and here became a part of General Hooker's grand 
division. There were now daily marches, some of the time through 
heavy rains and in deep mud. November 23rd, four miles from Freder- 
icksburg, they went into camp for the first time since leaving Miner's Hill. 
The army waited in that vicinity for the pontoon trains, which did not 
arrive until December 10. Then, in pushing a pontoon bridge across the 
Rappahannock, many of the builders were killed by Mississippi sharp- 
shooters. To stop this 120 cannon were placed on Stafford Heights over- 
looking Fredericksburg, and began firing shells into the city and among" 
the sharpshooters. When the firing ceased two bridges spanned the 
river, and Union troops hurried across and soon drove the enemy out of 
Fredericksburg. But the great battle was yet to come, when the Con- 
federates forced Burnside's army to withdraw to Falmouth after losing 
13,000 men. Piatt's brigade formed the extreme right of the line, and 
the 124th was one of the last regiments to recross the bridges. The next 
morning about half of the men answered to the surgeon's call, and nearly 
a hundred were placed on the sick list. General Piatt resigned about Christ- 
mas time, and there was a period of drilling and picket duty by brigades. 
January 5th the corps was reviewed by General Burnside. January loth 
new Enfield rifies came and were substituted for the old Belgians. Then, 
after three or four orders to march had been countermanded, a start was 
made through pelting rain and sleet and deepening mud. The rain and 
sleet froze as it fell, and the men w'ere chilled, and experienced two nights 
of great suffering. General Burnside abandoned the attempt to advance. 
On January 26th General Hooker superseded him. The division moved a 
little way, and cut down trees and constructed log cabins. During Feb- 
ruary the weather was severe, but the log cabins, which had fire places, 
though smoky at times, made them tolerably comfortable. Februarv 25th 
the 124th drove off a body of Confederate cavalry which made a dash on 
their picket line. There was a monotonous interval, enlivened April 7th 
by a grand review before President Lincoln and Generals Hooker and 
Sickles. The division and brigade were then attached to General Sickle*'*^ 
corps. Orders to march came April 28th, and the entire armv was soon 



114 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in motion, and the next day halted in sight of the enemy's pickets across 
the Rappahannock. The 124th crossed the river on a pontoon bridge 
with an army of 65,000 men, thirteen miles from Fredericksburg. Then 
came the disastrous battle of Chancellorsville. during which the 124th got 
into the thickest of the fight, had a fierce encounter with Iverson's bri- 
gade, and "not a man faltered," although raked by a deadly fire in whicli 
many men and a number of officers fell. Once they made a charge and 
retook works from which one of our batteries had been driven. The 
battle ended with the day, and Hooker was whipped. The Third corps 
lost in killed and wounded 4,000 men. It captured seven battle flags and 
over 1,000 prisoners. The losses of the 124th were fifty-five killed, 150 
v/ounded and six missing. Colonel Ellis, in his official report said : "Our 
men fought like tigers, cheering loudly, but falling fast, the officers with- 
out exception standing up to their duty and encouraging their commands." 

After Chancellorsville the 122nd Pa., having completed its nine months 
of service, returned home, and the brigade collapsed to between 500 and 
600 men of the 86th and 124th. Colonel Ellis was now in command of the 
brigade, and it was selected as one of three brigades of picked regiments 
to accompany a large body of cavalry on a secret expedition. They 
"Started May 6th through a thunderstorm to Beverly's Ford, where they 
crossed the Rappahannock. There had been a clash of cavalry, and Colonel 
Ellis's regiments were the first in the field. Batteries on both sides opened 
fire, and there were charges and countercharges, in which bullets flew 
thick. A body of rebels got in the rear of the 124th, but they were re- 
pulsed after a hot contest in which Co.'s A, F and D lost two killed and 
twenty wounded. The troops were ordered to recross the river. 

The 124th did such splendid service at Chancellorsville that it was trans- 
ferred to the roll of "first class, tried and to be trusted, veteran battalions," 
although only six weeks before it had been classed among the "untried 
recruits." June 9th it was part of an expedition of these veteran regi- 
ments which recrossed the Rappahannock, did some more fighting, under 
General Buford, and captured some of the enemy's pickets. General 
Pleasanton accompanied General Buford and ordered an advance in force, 
but he found the enemy reinforced and the troops were withdrawn after 
a loss of about 800 on each side. The 124th and 86th were commended 
as "reliable regiments" in the day's doings. 

About this time the old Whipple division ceased to exist in consequence 




Soldiers' Monument. Goshen. 



THE CIVIL WAR. 115 

of the losses at Chancellorsville and mustering- out of several regiments. 
Berdan's sharpshooters and the 124th and 86th were assigned to General 
J. H. H. Ward's brigade of General D. B. Birney's division. 

On June 14th they started on one of their longest and severest marches 
northward, and on June 25th crossed the Potomac at Edward's Eerry 
near Ball's Bluff. Just before it was ordered Milner Brown was 
assigned to the command of the regiment. They proceeded through 
Fredericksburg to Emmetsburg, and here on June 30th the 124th had but 
264 rifles in line, so great had been the losses in battle and from disease. 
They were informed that General Hooker had been succeeded by General 
Meade. The Confederates had invaded Pennsylvania and a great battle 
was anticipated. A forced march was made to Gettysburg through such 
intense heat that many were prostrated, and when the regiment reached 
the high ground south of Gettysburg not more than 100 men and five or 
six officers appeared in the regimental line, but the next morning it was 
240 strong. It was placed in the right center of the brigade, and in that 
decisive battle of the war distinguished itself by its steadiness and daring. 
For forty minutes Ward's and DeTrobriand's brigades of about 3.000 men 
held their ground against Longstreet's entire corps. By a mere chance the 
w^hole regiment escaped capture. General Ward harangued its men on the 
battlefield, and said the heroic resistance they had made "was beyond any- 
thing he had ever dared to hope for." Its active part in the great three 
days' battle was finished on the second day, as it was not called upon to 
participate in the fighting of the third day^ which brought defeat to Lee's 
army. The 124th had lost thirty-three killed, including Colonel Ellis. Major 
James Cromwell and Captain Isaac Nicoll, and fifty-nine wounded, includ- 
ing Lieutenant Colonel Cummins. A number of the severelv wounded re- 
mained in the hands of the enemy several days. The regiment was now 
reduced to 150 men with muskets and nine commissioned officers. Some 
had been sent to the corps hospital. They were now temporarily com- 
manded by Captain Charles A. Weygant of Co. A. 

The pursuit of Lee began, but he was too swift for Meade, and escaped 
across the Potomac. After various movements on both sides of the Poto- 
mac, which was crossed July 17th. the 12 ^.th bivouacked at Manassas Gap 
July 22nd. in sight of the place of its first skirmish. Then the regiment 
had 700 rank and file, a full field staff and twenty-five line officers. Xow. 
although about thirty convalescents had returned, it had less than 200 men 



ii6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in all. The corps, commanded by Major General French had been strength- 
ened since Gettysburg by about 8,000 new troops. General Ward still 
commanded the division. 

There were some undecisive movements and skirmishing in which the 
124th participated. Lieutenant Colonel Cummins, having recovered, re- 
turned and took command of the regiment July 28th. It was soon estab- 
lished in camp near Sulphur Springs and remained there six weeks. Sep- 
tember loth, in consequence of the backward movement of Lee's army, 
General Meade pushed a heavy cavalry force across the Rapidan, and 
soon the entire army was transferred to the region between the Rapidan 
and Rappahannock. The 124th broke camp September 15th, and next en- 
camped near Culpepper. October 2nd Lieutenant Colonel Cummins was 
given a leave of absence for five days, and left Captain Weyg^ant in com- 
mand. There were some uncertain movements, one of which followed a 
retrograde movement of Lee, October 19th, but he was found to be out of 
reach and General Meade gave up the pursuit until twenty miles of rail- 
road could be re-built. Next came the fight at Kelly's Ford of November 
/th, in which the 124th supported the lotli Massachusetts Battery, and the 
Confederates were defeated. Ward's division took possession of the ford 
and captured over 500 prisoners. The Union loss was only about fifty. 
Sedgwick's right wing attacked works on the bank of the Rappahannock, 
carried them by a.hn\Via:nt coup de main, and captured 1,500 prisoners, his 
loss being about 3t)0. In the mafcli next d'ay toward Beverly Station, with 
Ward's division in front, the 124th was deployed as flankers and was 
vmder fire for some time. There was no more fisfhtino- until November 
27th, when the fight at Locust Grove took place, followed by that at Mine 
Run. The 124th took part in both, and lost one killed, eight wounded and 
three captured. December ist Meade ordered a. retrograde movement, 
and the regiment settled down to a long stay at Brandy Station and Cul- 
pepper. March 17 General Birney sent an order to Colonel Cummins stat- 
ing that to equalize the, brigades the 124th would be transferred to the 
Third Brigade. This was so displeasing that fourteen officers of the regi- 
ment petitioned General Birney to allow them to remain under Brigadier 
General Ward. Major General Birney replied that "the request of the of- 
ficers of this gallant regiment would be fully considered," and he would 
try to grant it. This was done, and the 124th remained in Ward's Bri- 
gade. Meanwhile it had received considerable additions in volunteers 



THE C1\1L WAR. 117 

from Urange County, although not half as many as had been mustered 
out and transferred to the veteran reserve corps in consequence of physical 
disability. 

Early in March L'. S. Grant had been made Lieutenant General and 
invested by the President with the chief command of all the armies of 
the United States. In the latter part of March and the month of April 
he caused a radical reorganization of the Army of the Potomac, and 
the "Old Third" became a part of the Second Corps. 

An advance was ordered May 3d. and that night Birney's division 
struck tents and began its march. Two days afterward the memorable 
Battle of the Wilderness was begun. Ward's command in this battle 
consisted of eight infantry regiments, including the 124th and the Second 
U. S. Sharp.shooters, constituting one of the largest brigades in the 
army. The leading officers of the 124th were now Colonel Cummins, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Weygant and Acting Major H. S. Murray. The 
brigade and regiment did their allotted share in the two-days' battle, but 
the regiment was less exposed than at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, 
and came out with a loss of three killed and fifty-seven wounded, Colonel 
Cummins being among the wounded. 

The battle of Spottsylvania Court House came a week later. On the 
9th the 124th N. Y. and 20th Ind. Regiments were throw^n out as skir- 
mishers for General Birney's division as it marched forward. Near Po 
River a Confederate battery opened on them, but fired too high, and 
soon ha<J to flee. In tlie battJe the next day for a while the 124th sup- 
ported a battery on the extreme right of Hancock's line, and then 
marched with the division towards the left, where it was soon engaged, 
and assisted in an unsuccessful charge on the rebel line. It was in General 
Hancock's famous charge of Alay 12th. Birney's division was in four 
lines, with Ward's Brigade in front, the 124th composing the right center 
of the first line. Lieutenant Colonel Weygant in command. When the clash 
came there were hand-to-hand encounters so fierce and desperate as to 
defy description. There was an "unparalleled struggle of eigh.teen hours' 
duration." Hancock's men captured the enemy's works, and he finally 
abandoned his efforts to retake them. The 124th had been so actively en- 
gaged or under fire so much that the men writing home as late as May 
i8th spoke of the battle as having been raging since May 4th. Its losses 
were fifteen killed, fifty-two wounded and two captured. Coh^nel Weygant 



ii8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

was one of the wounded. After the battle the regiment was so small that 
it was found necessary to consolidate it into five and then into three com- 
panies, and the 124th and 86th acted together, first under Lieutenant- 
Colonel Lansing and then Major Stafford, both of the 86th. This union 
lasted until they settled down in front of Petersburg. 

On the evening of May 20th the movement of the army from Spott- 
sylvania Court House began in earnest. The 124th was in various move- 
ments, and on June ist seven of its men on picket duty were captured. 
In the bloody battle of Cold Harbor, June 3d, Birney's command was in 
reserve, and the men of the 124th were lookers-on. 

Offensive operations were suspended for a time, and General Grant de- 
cided to transfer his army to the James River. On the evening of June 
I2th, after a march of fifty-five miles, Hancock's corps reached Wilcox 
Landing and was transferred to waiting steamboats. On June 15th the 
advance of the rest of the army was resumed, Birney's command leading 
the column down the Prince George Court House road towards Peters- 
burg. The brigade encamped in a grove of pines on City Point. There 
were only about 100 men left in the 124th. Between Alay i8th and June 
22nd it lost three killed, twenty-four wounded and eight captured. Every 
third day from the 4th to the 24th of July the remnant was on the picket 
line. There were no engagements, but some skirmishing. 

General Birney had been assigned to the command of the Tenth Corps, 
and the veterans of the "Old Third" were consolidated into one division 
under General Mott, and General De Trobriand became commander of the 
brigade, which included the 124th, now commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel 
Weygant. When offensive operations were resumed on the last day of 
September, the regiment could muster sixteen ofiicers and 230 fighting 
men, and two months later had been reinforced so that it numbered nine- 
teen ofiicers and 362 enlisted men, a few of whom were raw recruits. It 
had some active and hazardous work during the fall, before the army 
settled down in winter quarters. October 26 Hancock's command moved 
to the Weldon road, and the next day De Trobriand's brigade marched 
with Mott's division to Hatcher's Run, where General Eagan was having 
a skirmish, and preparing to force the passage of the stream. This was 
done, and presently De Trobriand's brigade was ordered to the front to 
relieve the brigade on the left of Eagan's line. In the afternoon the enemy 
advanced in force, and there was some furious fighting, in which the 




m. 






THE CIVIL WAR. 119 

124th brought to a halt a tlanking force of dismounted cavalry with a 
battery of rifled guns and sent them into the edge of a neighboring 
wood. The battle continued, and a bullet struck Colonel Weygant ?ti 
the side, so that he had to leave the field. Finally the Confederates fled. 
This was called the Battle of Boydton road. Three of the 124th were 
killed, fourteen wounded and six captured including two of the wounded. 
The regiment also took part in the raid of a w-eek, beginning November 
6th, to destroy the Weldon railroad, when its loss was only one killed and 
one wounded. 

During the winter the Union lines tightened around Richmond, but ajjart 
from preparations for the spring campaign not much was done on either 
side. In Februar}^ however, De Trobriand's brigade was in a short fight 
at Hatcher's Run, across which the Union line was permanently extended. 

Confederate leaders did not allow Grant to open the spring campaign, 
and on March 26th attacked his lines, east of Petersburg, but were re- 
pulsed. The previous day the 124th was in an engagement with 500 Con- 
federates, and in a gallant charge captured six officers and 164 men. Pri- 
vate George W. Tompkins shot the Confederate Commander, Colonel 
Troy, and carried off the battle flag of his regiment which he bore. Not a 
man of the 124th was injured. Private Tompkins was given a medal of 
honor from the Secretary of War. the thanks of Congress and a brevet 
commission. 

The storming of Petersburg began April 2nd wuth all the artillery. 
That night the 124th and two other regiments were ordered to advance, 
and got into a fight in w^hich several men were seriously wounded. The 
object of this move was to delay the return of some of Lee's troops, and 
was successful. The grand assault on the Confederate lines was made at 
the appointed time, and a part of De Trobriand's brigade led by the 124th 
moved at double-quick over one of the main road? leading into Peters- 
burg, the Confederates fleeing before them, but wheeling and firing as 
they ran. Lee was quick to see the inevitable result of the assault, and 
ordered the evacuation of Richmond. During April 3d the 124th, which 
had the advance of the Second Corps, marched twenty miles, and gathered 
in 200 dismounted Confederate cavalrymen. On the 6th it came up 
with Lee's rear guard, and in the fighting of the march along Sailor's 
Creek up to this date the regiment lost four killed, seventeen wounded 
and one missing. The pursuit was resumed on the 7th. and on the 9th 



120 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

came the great surrender of Lee to Grant, when our "men shouted until 
they could shout no longer." 

After the momentous event at Appomatox the 124th encamped at 
Burkesville Junction. In the night the men were awakened and horrified by 
the news that President Lincoln and Secretary Seward had been assassin- 
ated. On May ist Meade's army took up its line of march for Washing- 
ton, and came in sight of it about the middle of May. On June 5th, after 
participating in the grand review of the whole Union army, the 124th 
received its last marching orders. It reached home June 13th, and re- 
ceived a wonderful welcome from assembled thousands at Newburgh. 

The Newburgh Daily Union published the truth when it said the next 
day that it "had made as noble a record as any regiment in the field." 
It praised Colonels Ellis, Cummins and Weygant, and said of the regi- 
ment: "Slowly they filed past; and now the people's enthusiasm burst 
out over all bounds. Our scanty police and watch force were swallowed 
up and overwhelmed, and the eager multitudes seemed as if they would 
throw themselves upon the soldiers. On they marched with steady and 
resistless step, their paces and uniforms telling of the fearful scenes they 
had passed through. Their battle flag, as it was borne aloft, awakened 
intense emotion ; hardly a strip of its frayed and bullet-torn silk was 
left ; yet it was more precious to the men and to the people than if it 
were made of cloth of gold." 

Judge Taylor made the address of welcome, in which he said : "You 
are the life-guards of the nation, and we look upon you with something 
of the same reverence which we feel toward the fathers of our country. 
And we cherish the memory of those who fought, bled and died, and of 
those who survived the carnage of Fredericksburg, of Chancellorsville, 
of Beverly's Ford, of Gettysburg, of the Wilderness, of Spottsylvania, 
of Boydton Road, of Sailor's Creek and the many battlefields around 
Richmond." 

The following is the official record of the commissioned officers of 
the 124th, in which the date of commission is followed by the date of 
rank: 

REGIMENTAL AND COMPANY OFFICERS. 

COLONELS. 

A Van Horn Ellis, Sept. 10, 1862 ; Aug. 23, 1862 ; killed in action at Gettysburg, 
Pa., July 2, 1863. 










I 







UJ 






THE CI\'IL WAR. 121 

Francis ^I. Cummins, Oct. 10, 1863; July 2, 1863; discharged, Sept. 19, 1864. 
Charles H. Wcygant, Jan. 11, 1865; Sept. 19, 1864; not mustered. 

LIEUTENANT COLONELS. 

Francis M. Cummins, Sept, 10, 1863; Aug. 16, 1862; promoted to Colonel, Oct. 
10, 1863. 

Charles II. Weygant, Oct. 10, 1863; July 2, 1863; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865 ( Brevet Colonel, U. S. V.) 

Henry S. Murray, Jan. 11, 1865; Sept. 19, 1864; not mustered. 

MAJORS. 

James Cromwell, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; killed in action at Gettysburg, 
Pa., July 2, 1863. 

Charles H. Weygant, Sept. 14, 1863 ; July 2, 1863 ; promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, 
Oct. 10, 1863. 

Henry S. Murray, Oct. 10, 1863; July 2, 1863; mustered out with regimei>t, 
June 3, 1865. 

James W. Benedict, Jan. 11, 1865: Sept. 19, 1864; not mustered. 

ADJUTANTS. 

William Silliman, Sept. 10, 1862; July 16, 1862; promoted to Captain, Oct 3, 1862. 
C. Depeyster Arden, Oct. 3, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; discharged, Jan. 14, 1863. 
William Brownson, Feb. 20, 1863; Dec. 31, 1863; resigned, Sept. 17, 1863. 
William B. Van Houten, Oct. 10, 1863 ; Sept. 17, 1863 ; discharged, Jan. 23, 1865. 
Wines E. Weygant, Jan. 31, 1865; Jan. 31, 1865; not mustered. 

QUARTERMASTERS. 

Augustus Denniston, Sept. 10, 1862; July 15, 1862; resigned, Jan. 14, 1863. 
Henry F. Travis, Feb. 27, 1863; Jan. 14, 1863; promoted to Captain, Aug. 20, 1863. 
Ellis Post, Aug. 20, 1863; April 21, 1863; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

SURGEONS. 

John H. Thompson, Sept. 10, 1862: July 26, 1862; dismissed Nov. 25, 1864; dis- 
ability removed by order of the President, Jan. 14, 1865. 

John H. Thompson, Feb. 15, 1865: Feb. 15, 1865; failed to muster. 

Robert V. K. Montfort, March 22, 1865: March 22, 1865; mustered out with 
regiment, June 3, 1865. 

ASSISTANT SURGEONS. 

Edward G. Marshall, Sept. 10, 1862; Sept. 5, 1862; dismissed, Aug. 7, 1863. 

Robert V. K. Montfort, Sept. 10, 1862; Sept. 10, 1862: promoted to surgeon, 
March 22, 1865. 

Edward C. Fox, April 6. 186;: April 7. 186^; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, i865. 

CHAPLAIN. 

Thomas Scott Bradner, Oct. 21, 1862; Aug. 23, 1862; mustered out with regi- 
ment, June 3, 1865. 



122 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CAPTAINS. 

Charles H. Weygant, Sept. lo, 1862; Aug. 12, 1862; promoted to major, Sept. 14, 
1863. 

Charles B. Wood, Oct. 10, 1863; July 2, 1863; discharged, Sept. 21, 1864. 

Thomas Taft, Nov. 15, 1864; Sept. 21, 1864; mustered out with regiment, June 
3. 1865. 

Henry S. Murray, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 14, 1862; promoted to major, Oct. 10, 1863. 

William E. Mapes, Dec. 17, 1863; July 2, 1863; discharged, Dec. 15, 1864. 

Robert J. Malone, Dec. 17, 1864; Sept. is, 1864; mustered out with regiment, June 
3. 1865. 

James Cromwell, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 15, 1862; promoted to major, Sept. 10, 1862. 

William Silliman, Oct. 3, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; promoted to colonel, 26th U. S. 
C. T., Feb. I, 1864. 

James Finnegan, Feb. 9, 1864; Feb. i, 1864; died of wounds, Oct. 28, 1864. 

James A. Grier, Nov. 15, 1864; Oct. 27, 1864; not mustered. 

James W. Benedict, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 16, 1862; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

John C. Wood, Feb. 18, 1865 ; Jan. i, 1865 ; mustered out with regiment, June 3, 
1865. 

William A. McBurney, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 19, 1862; resigned, March 9, 1863. 

Daniel Sayer, Dec. 17, 1863; March 6, 1863; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

Isaac NicoU, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; killed in action at Gettysburg, Pa., 
July 2, 1863. 

James O. Denniston, Aug. 20, 1863; July 2, 1862; not mustered. 

Henry P. Ramsdell, Dec. 12, 1863 ; Oct. 7, 1863 ; not mustered. 

Thomas J. Quick, Dec. 17, 1863; Dec. 10, 1863; mustered out with regiment, June 
3. 1865. 

Ira S. Bush, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; resigned, June 21, 1864. 

John W. Houston, July 15, 1864; June 21, 1864; not mustered. 

Edward J. Cormick, Nov. 15, 1864; Aug. 10, 1864; killed in action near Peters- 
burg, Va., April i, 1865. 

Lander Clark, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; resigned, May 13, 1863. 

Henry F. Travis, Aug. 20, 1863 J April 21, 1863 ; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

William A. Jackson, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 23, 1862; killed in action near Peters- 
burg, Va., June 18, 1864. 

Lewis M. Wisner, July 15, 1864; July 14, 1864; not mustered as captain. 

Thomas Bradley, Nov. 15, 1864; Aug. 2, 1864; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

David Crist, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 23, 1862; killed in action. May 30, 1864. 

Theodore M. Roberson, Feb. 18, 1865; Jan. i, 1865; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

FIRST LIEUTENANTS. 

Charles B. Wood, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 12, 1862; promoted to captain, Oct. 10, 
1863. 

Charles T. Cressy, April 19, 1864; May i, 1S64; not mustered. 

Thomas Taft, Aug. 2, 1864; July 20, 1864; promoted to captain, Nov. 15, 1864. 

David U. Quick, Feb. 18, 1865 ; Jan. i, 1865 ; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

Wines E. Weygant, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 14, 1862; resigned, Feb. 8, 1863. 

William E. Mapes, Feb. 27, 1863 ; Feb. 8, 1863 ; promoted to captain, Feb. 2-j, 1863. 



THE CI\'1I. WAR. 



1^3 



Edward J. Corniick, March 22, 1864; March i~, 1864; promoted to captain, Nov. 
15, 1864. 

Abram P. Francisco, Feb. 18, 1865; Jan. i, 1865; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

William Brownson, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 15, 1862; promoted to adjutant, Feb. 20, 
1863. 

Henry P. Ramsdell, Feb. 20, 1863; Dec. 31, 1862; discharged, Dec. 13, 1863. 

Daniel Saver, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 16, 1862; promoted to captain, Dec. 17, 1863. 

John W. ilouston, Dec. 17, 1862; March 6, 186,^: discharged, Dec. 13, 18(63. 

Ebenezer Holbert, July 15, 1864; June 21, 1864; mustered out with regiment, June 
3. 1865. 

Wm. A. Verplanck, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 10, 1862; discharged, Sept. 23, 1863. 

Theodore M. Roberson, Dec. 17, 1863; Sept. 25, 1863; promoted to captain, Feb. 
18, 1865. 

Woodward T. Ogden, Feb. 18, 1865 ; Jan. i, 1865 ; not mustered. 

James O. Denniston, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; discharged, Oct. 17, 1863. 

William H. Benjamin, Feb. 18, 1865; Jan. i, 1865; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

Thomas J. Quick, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; promoted to captain, Dec. 17, 
1863. 

James A. Grier, Dec. 24, 1863; Dec. 10, 1863; not mustered. 

John B. Stanbrough, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; resigned, Nov. 12, 1862. 

Isaac M. Martin, Dec. 30, 1862; Nov. 12, 1862; dismissed, May 15, 1863. 

Wm. B. Van Houten, Aug. 20, 1863; May 15, 1863; promoted to adjutant, Oct. 
10, 1863. 

Charles Stuart, Oct. 10, 1863; Sept. 17, 1863; discharged, May 15, 1865. 

James H. Roosa, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 23, 1862; resigned, March 7, 1863. 

James Finnegan, May 26, 1863; March 7, 1863; promoted to captain, Feb. 9, 1864. 

Lewis M. Wisner, Feb. 23, 1864: Feb. i, 1864; discharged, Aug. 5, 1864. 

John C. Wood, Nov. 15, 1864; Aug. i, 1864; promoted to captain, Feb. 18, 1865. 

Thomas Hart, Feb. 18, 1865; Jan. i, 1865; mustered out with regiment, June 3, 
1865. 

Henry Gowdy, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 22, 1863; died, May it, 1864, of wounds. 

John R. Hayes, Dec. 17, 1863; May 10, 1863; not mustered. 

Thomas Bradley, Sept. 27, 1864; Aug. i, 1864; promoted to captain, Nov. 15, 1864. 

John S. King, Dec. 17, 1864; Sept. 15, 1864; mustered out with regiment, June 3, 
1865. 

SECOND LIEUTENANTS. 

Charles T. Cressy, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 12, 1862; promoted to first lieutenant, 
April 19, 1864. 

Jonathan Birdsall, Aug. 2, 1864; July 20, 1864; killed in action near Petersburg, 
Va., Oct. 22, 1864. 

Gabriel Tuthill, Feb. 27, 1863; Feb. 8, 1863; discharged, Feb. 23, 1864. 

Henry P. Ramsdell, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 15, 1862: promoted to first lieutenant, 
Feb. 27, 1863. 

James A. Grier, Feb. 20, 1863; Dec. 31, 1862; promoted to first lieutenant, Dec. 
24, 1863. 

Thomas Hart, Nov. i^, 1864; July 21, 1864; promoted to first lieutenant, Feb. 18, 
1865. 

John W. Houston, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 16, 1862; promoted to first lieutenant, 
Dec. 17, 1863. 

Ebenezer Holbert, April 2, 1864: July 20, 1864: promoted to first lieutenant, July 
15, 1864. 



124 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Thomas G. Mabie, Nov. 15, 1864; July 26, 1864; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

Adolphus Wittenbeecher, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 19, 1862; dismissed, March 19, 1863. 

Theodore M. Roberson, May 26, 1863; March 6, 1863; promoted to first lieuten- 
ant, Dec. 17, 1863. 

Woodward T. Ogden, Nov. 15, 1864; July 21, 1864; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

Sylvester Lawson, March 14, 1865; March 3, 1865; mustered out with regiment, 
June 3, 1865. 

David Gibbs, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; resigned, Feb. 25, 1863. 

Wm. H. Benjamin, May 26, 1863; Feb. 25. 1863; promoted to first lieutenant, 
Feb. 18, 1865. 

Joshua V. Cole, Feb. 18. 1865 ; Jan. i, 1865 ; not mustered. 

Samuel W. Hotchkiss, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 20, 1862; resigned, April 2, 1864. 

David U. Quick, Nov. 15, 1864; July 21, 1864; promoted to first lieutenant, Feb. 
18, 1865. 

Lewis T. Schultz, Feb. 18, 1865; Jan. i, 1865; mustered out with regiment, June 
3, 1865. 

Isaac M. Martin, Sept. 10. 1862 ; Aug. 20, 1862 ; promoted to first lieutenant, Dec. 
20, 1862. 

Milnor Brown, Dec. 30, 1862; Dec. 30, 1862; killed in action at Gettysburg, Pa., 
July 2, 1863. 

Charles Stuart, Aug. 20, 1863 ; July 2, 1863 ; promoted to first lieutenant, Oct. 10, 
1863. 

William W. Smith, April 19, 1864; Sept. 17, 1863; not mustered. 

James Finnegan, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 23, 1862; promoted to first lieutenant, May 
26, 1863. 

Jacob Denton, May 26, 1863; March 7, 1863; not mustered; killed in action. May 
3, 1863. 

Lewis M. Wisner, Aug. 20, 1863; May 3, 1863; promoted to first lieutenant, Feb. 
23, 1864. 

John R. Hayes, Sept. 10, 1862; Aug. 22, 1862; discharged, April 8, 1864. 

OTHER MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS. 

Company i, 71st Regiment, N. G. S. N. Y., was recruited in Newburgh, 
mostly from Co. L, iQth Regiment, N. G. S. N. Y., between May 2c and 
31, 1 861, by Captain A. Van Home Ellis. Governor Morgan refused to 
permit the company to leave the State, and thereupon Captain Ellis took 
it to New York on his own responsibility. It was furnished with transpor- 
tation to Washington, was accepted through the influence of Secretary 
Seward, and mustered in for three months. It was stationed at the Wash- 
ington Navy Yard, sent to Chapel Point and Point Tobacco, June 28, re- 
turned, and on July 16 was brigaded with Rhode Island and New Hamp- 
shire regiments under Colonel Burnside. It went to the Bull Run battlefield 
dragging two twelve-pound boat howitzers on July 4th, and returned 
with them. Soon it went back, arriving on the Bull Run battlefield July 
2Tst, and in the battle fired 232 shots of shrapnel and canister. It drew 




? 



THE CIVIL WAR. 



1^5 



out of the conflict by order at 3 i'. m. with the loss of one killed and two 
\Voimded, and returned to Washington. It was soon back in Newburgh, 
where it was mustered out July 30th. The officers during^ this service 
were : 

A. X'anHorne Ellis, captain; George W. Hawkins, second lieutenant; 
Wm. H. Garrison, second sergeant ; John Mc Meekin, third sergeant ; 
James D. Hamilton, fourth sergeant ; Charles Decker, first corporal ; 
Marshal M. \'an Zile, second corporal; Henry T. Travis, third sergeant; 
Thomas Riley, fourth sergeant. 

May 28th, 1862, within seven hours, the company was again recruited 
for three months, and during that period was on guard duty in and 
around Washington. The officers were : 

A. VanHorne Elli>. captair. ; Wm. II. ( .arrison, first lieutenant; James 
C. Taggart, second lieutenant; John W. Forsyth, first sergeant; Henry 
F. Travis, second .sergeant; John McMeekin. third sergeant; James B. 
Montgomery, fourth sergeant; Thomas Riley, fifth sergeant; Robert 
Acheson. David M. DeWitt, Wm. M. N'crplanck and Edward J. Hall, 
corporals. 

Captain Ellis afterward became colonel of the 124th, and several other 
members of the compnm\- became captains ard lieutenants in the 124th, 
56th and other regiments. 

In May, 1862, the 19th regiment of militia, commandeil by Colonel \\"m. 
R. P.rown, was ordered to Washington, and after recruiting its ranks, 
which had been depleted by volunteer enlistments, left Xewburgh Jun.e 4. 
Arriving in Baltimore, it was ordered to .Stuart Hill, and remained there 
until July 2nd, when two of its companies were ordered to Fort McHenrv 
and the rest of the regiment to Fort Marshall. On July 14 four companies 
were ordered to Fort Delaware, and remained there until August loth, 
when they were sent to Havre de Grace to guard the railroad between 
there and Baltimore. The wdiole regiment went back to Xewburgh the 
last of August, and was mustered out of the U. S. service September 6. 

Officers during this expedition were: \\'illiam J. Brown, colonel : James 
Low, lieutenant colonel: David Jagger, major; George Weller. quarter- 
master ; William J. Hathaway, adjutant. 

In August Colonel Brown twice offered the services of the regiment for 
nine months, but the offers were refused by Governor Morgan. He of- 
fered them again September 17, when they were accepted. Recruiting for 



126 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

it was complicated by the efforts of Colonel Isaac Wood to raise an au- 
thorized regiment of three years' men in the county at the same time, but 
he stopped after enlisting 2']2 men, who were consolidated with the 176th 
N. Y. Y. and mustered in November 20th. 

Colonel Brown continued to enroll volunteers until February 2nd, 
when his regiment, known as the i68th, left Newburgh with 750 men, and 
New York City eleven days later with 835 men. It went to Yorktown, and 
remained there on garrison duty during nearly its whole term of service. 
Once a detachment of 140 men under Captain Daniel Torbush was sent 
with detachments from other regiments up York and Mattapony Rivers, 
and the Torbush detachment was placed to guard the Richmond road. 
Flere it was attacked by a force of Confederate cavalry, and repulsed them, 
killing fourteen, and losing one killed, five wounded and two captured. 
September i6th the regiment was sent to Bridgeport, Ala., and remained 
there on guard duty until October 14th, when it went back to Newburgh, 
and was mustered out October 31st. During its nine months of service 
it lost one killed, eighteen died, thirteen captured and 184 deserters. Its 
commissioned officers were : 

Colonel : William R. Brown. 

Lieutenant-Colonels : James Low, James C. Rennison. 

Majors: George Waller (dismissed), James C. Rennison, Daniel Torbush. 

Adjutant: Wm. R. Hathway. 

Quartermasters : James H. Anderson, George C. Spencer. 

Surgeon : Jacob M. Leighton. 

Assistant Surgeon : Edward B. Root. 

Chaplain : R. Howard Wallace. 

Captains : Wm. H. Terwilliger, Daniel Torbush, James H. Anderson, Isaac Jen- 
kinson, Bennett Gilbert, George McCleary, Samuel Hunter, John D. Wood, James 
C. Rennison, Myron A. Tappan, Marshal Van Zile. 

First Lieutenants : Nathan Hubbard, Oliver Taylor, Jacob K. R. Oakley, Archi- 
bald Ferguson, James H. Searles, Lawrence Brennan, James 1. Chase, De Witt C. 
Wilkin, Wm. D. Dickey, Marshal Van Tile, George R. Brainsted. 

Second Lieutenants : Thomas P. Terwilliger, Isaac N. Morehouse, James H. An- 
derson, Geo. C. Marvin, Andrew J. Gilbert, Samuel C. Wilson, Paul Terwilliger, 
Geo. W. Hennion, Daniel Low, Jr., Geo. R. Brainsted, Bartley Brown, Lester 
Genung. 

The 176th regiment, with which Colonel Wood's 272 recruits were con- 
solidated, was sent to the Department of the Gulf as a part of the Nine- 
teenth Corps, and was in the Red River campaign in 1864, in General 
Sheridan's Shenandoah Valley campaign the same year, and in Georgia 
and North Carolina in the early months of 1865. In the Red River cam- 
paign it did some fighting and lost many men in killed, wounded and 



THE CIVIL WAR. 127 

prisoners. Of its Orange County officers, T. Henry Edsall was adjutant, 
Sprague K. Wood rose from sergeant to captain, and Joseph Goodseli 
from second lieutenant to captain. 

The company of cavalry recruitc(l in the fall of 1861 by Morris I. 
McCormal as a part of Colonel Van Wyck's "Tenth Legion," when it was 
detached from this regiment was mustered in as Co. C, First Mounted 
Rifles, and had ninety-five men. The company served three years. Officers 
were: Morris I. McCormal, captain; Charles F. Allen, first lieutenant; 
Arthur Hagen, second lieutenant; Ardice Robbins, orderly sergeant; C. R. 
Smith, quartermaster sergeant. Captain McCormal resigned in 1862, but 
re-entered the service in the Fifteenth Cavalry in 1863. Quartermaster 
Smith and Sergeants James Eaton, Frank Mills and Fred Penney were 
promoted to lieutenants. 

Orange County was represented in the Seventh, afterward Second, 
regiment of Cavalry, its volunteers being mostly in Co. B. under Captain 
Charles E. Morton of New Windsor. Alanson Randall. U. S. A., a 
native of Newburgh, was colonel of the regiment from November, 1864. 
to the muster out, June 5, 1865. The regiment was also known as the 
Harris Light Cavalry. 

Recruits were obtained in Orange County for the Fifteenth Cavalry in 
the winter of 1863-4 by Captain Morris L McCormal of Middletown, and 
Lieutenant Charles H. Lyon of Newburgh. 

The Fifteenth Heavy Artillery's Co. M. was mostly recruited in Orange 
County in the winter of 1863-4. The regiment was mustered in at Fort 
Lyon. \'a., February 3, 1864, remained there until March 27th, when it 
went to Beverly Station and was assigned to duty in the Artillery Reserve 
of the Army of the Potomac, and did creditable service in several bloody 
battles. When Co. M was organized its officers were : Wm. D. Dickey of 
Newburgh, captain ; Alfred Newbatt and Julius Niebergall. first lieuten- 
ants ; John Ritchie and Robert B. Keeler, second lieutenants. August 
15th Captain Dickey was placed in command of the Third Battalion and 
Lieutenant Ritchie took command of the company, leading it through the 
engagements in the struggle for the Weldon railroad, in one of which it 
lost in killed and wounded a third of its men. For the regiment's good 
work here and in a previous fight at Haines' Tavern it was complimented 
in the general orders of Meade. Co. M was mustered out in July, 1865. 
It lost during its year of service three officers and ninet\-five privates. The 



128 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

promotions were : Captain Dickey to major, Second Lieutenants Keeler 
and Ritchie to first lieutenants, and Sergeants Joseph M. Dickey and Rie- 
mann to second Heutenants. 

This Seventeenth Independent Battery was recruited in Orange to be a 
part of Colonel Van Wyck's "Tenth Legion" or 56th Regiment. It arrived 
in Washington November 11, 1861, and was organized as an independent 
battery January 10, 1862. It was first assigned to Casey's, afterwards 
Peek's division. It also served in the Seventh Corps, then in the Second 
division of the Eighteenth Corps, at Bermuda Hundred a short time in 
the Tenth Corps, and when mustered out formed a part of the artillery 
brigade of the Twenty-fourth Corps. It was in the siege of Yorktown, 
the battles of Williamsburg, Savage's Station, Fair Oaks, Malvern Hill, 
the siege of Suffolk, and was in action at Petersburg, Dutch Gap, Fort 
Harrison, Hatcher's Run and Port Walthal. It was in the investment 
of Petersburg and Richmond. It suffered most severely at Fair Oaks. 
Its record was good throughout. Its commissioned officers were : 

Captain : Peter C. Regan. 

First Lieutenants : Eugene Scheibner, Abram Kniffin, Martin V. Mclntyre, John 
S. Bennett. 

Second Lieutenants : Abram Kniffin, Charles S. Harvell, Abram Smith, Wm. H. 
Lee, Edward Kelly, John B. Brosen, Jr. 

The First Regiment of Engineers, known as Serrell's, had in its ranks, 
it was said, 300 or 400 men from Orange County. Its detachments were 
mustered in between September 10. 1861, and February 12, 1862. The 
regiment retained its organization until June 30, 1865, when it was mni- 
tered out, but there were various changes in its composition. It was an 
important regiment in the engineering part of the service. 

Company C of the Q8th N. Y. S. V., was mostly recruited in Newburgh 
in the winter of 1863-4 by Captain James H. Anderson and LieuteniantJ. 
K. R. Oakley, who had been in the i68th Regiment. They went to Riker's 
Island in February, 1864, aud here consolidation requirements caused Co. 
C to consist of ninety-five Orange County men under Captain Anderson 
and Lieutenants Oakley and Sneed, and twenty-four were assigned to Co. 
I under Captain E. M. Allen. The record of the regiment was one of the 
best. It fought at Drury's Bluflf, Cold Harbor and Petersburg. At Drury's 
Elufif it saved General Buller's army from a flank attack : at Cold Harbor 
it lost in killed and wounded 100 men ; at Petersburg it charged the outer 




//^ ocJ /^(^-^--i^-Le^co 



THE CIVIL WAR. 129 

line of the enemy's works and was almost constantly under fire. Its colors 
were the first to be planted at Fort Harrison on September 29, 1864, and 
it was the first regiment to enter Richmond after the evacuation. After the 
surrender of Lee it was on post and garrison duty in several places, and 
was mustered out at Richmond August 31, 1865. Of the men who went' 
out with Captain Anderson, thirteen were killed or died of wounds, twen- 
ty-three wounded, and five died of disease. 

MONEY RAISED FOR THE WAR. 

The following totals were raised by official action from town taxes, 
loans, state cash and bonds, for the towns named for war purposes : 

Blooming Grove, $60,900; Chester, $54,192.67; Cornwall, $69,200; 
Crawford, $84,187.12; Deer Park, $242,981.83; Goshen, $83,233.05; 
Greenville, $54,016.45; Hamptonburgh, $21,000; Minisink, $57,271.62; 
Monroe, $160,968.65; Montgomery, $57,250; Mount Hope, $62,888.24; 
Newburgh, $455,637; New Windsor, $48,715,55; Wallkill, $95,100; 
Warwick, $201,070; Wawayanda, $51,750. 

By the County: From taxes, 1864, $1,800; 1865, $90,649.50; from 
loans, 1864, $421,000; total. $513,449.50. 

Towns and County: From taxes, 1862, $31,931; 1863, $2,000; 1864, 
$350,434.95; 1865, $257,581.82; from loans, 1862, $31,950; 1863, $35,- 
318.70; 1864, $1,113,761.82; 1865, $229,278.41. 

From State : Cash. $76,000 ; bonds, $252,000.53 ; interest on bonds, 
$3,473.51 ; other sources, $105. 

Full total: $2,384,801.74. 

The donations, cash subscriptions and draft exemption moneys, amount- 
ing to a very large sum, are not included in the foregoing figures. 



I30 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XI. 

TOWN OF BLOOMING GROVE 

By Benjamin C. Sears. 

THIS is one of the older towns of Orange County, lying somewhat 
northwest of the geographical center. The towns of Hampton- 
burgh and New Windsor are on the north, Cornwall on the east, 
Monroe and Woodbury on the south and Goshen and Chester on the west. 
It covers an area of 21,759 acres. 

The title to all the territory of this town conveyed by the various orig- 
inal patents, upon which rests the^deed of every property-holder to-day 
has been carefully preserved. The names and dates of the first settlers 
are also pretty fully recorded. 

The oldest grant of land seems to be the Mompesson Patent, which 
is dated March 4, 1709, and confirmed May 31, 1712. This covered 
1,000 acres. The next grant in order of time is that known as the Rip 
Van Dam patent, which is dated March 23, 1907 and covered some 3,000 
acres. This was granted to Rip Van Dam, Adolph Phillips, David Pro- 
vost, Jr., Lancaster Symes and Thomas Jones, each having an equal share 
in the tract. This is described as "beginning at a station bearing west 24 
degrees north, and 85 chains from the wigwam of the Indian Maringamus, 
which was on the southwest bank of Murderer's Creek just across the rail- 
road track from the Catholic Church of St. Mary. The present village of 
Salisbury Mills is on the east end of this patent so far as the village 
lies in the town. In the northeast corner of the town on the old county 
line is the 1,000 acre tract of Roger Van Dam which is dated June 30, 
1720, although a portion of this tract extends over into the present town 
of New Windsor. The next patent was granted to Ann Hoagland, May 
24, 1723, and it contained 2,000 acres in the western part of the town. 
In the southeastern part of the town, adjoining the Rip Van Dam patent, 
and west of the Schunemunk Mountains was the 2,000 acre grant of Ed- 
ward Blagg and Johannes Hey. dated March 28, 1726. This valley has 
been known ever since as Blagg's Clove. West of this was the irregular 
tract of 2,440 acres granted to Nathaniel Hazzard January 11, 1727. This 




Benjamin C. Sears. 



TOWX Ol" I'.Loo.MIXG GROVE. i.V 

was south of Washingtonville. Still further west was the Joseph Sackett 
2,000-acre tract, to which 222 acres were afterward added on the south. 
This patent was dated July 7, 1736, and the tract adjoins the present 
village of Oxford. Sackett got another grant of 149 acres September i, 
1737, on the west. 

( )n August 10. 1723 a i)atc'nt covering 2,600 acres was granted to 
Richard Gerard and William lUill. 

PHYSICAL FEATLRKS. 

The surface of this town is varied by the long range of Schuncmunk 
Mountains, forming the eastern boundary, with its level ridges reaching 
to the height of about 1,600 feel, and the beautiful foothills of Woodcock, 
Round Hill, Aloscjuito, Raynor and Peddler. The last two have deposits 
of magnetic iron ore, which mixed with the ores from other parts of the 
county was used in making the Parott guns during the War of the 
Rebellion. The cultivated land is also broken and rolling, some upon 
quite high hills, whose sides were not cultivated, and are covered with 
luxuriant blue grass pastures, and along the streams and the lower lands 
are beautiful natural meadows, which bring their annual tribute of hay 
into the barns, and add very much to the beauty of the scenery. 

The Greycourt or Cromeline Creek runs from W^alton Lake by the 
base of Goose Pond Mountain, through the Greycourt meadows and the 
picturesque falls at Craigville, through Farmingdale and Hulsetown, 
and is joined near the Hamptonburgh line by the Ottcrkill ; near Wash- 
ingtonville by the Tappan or Schuncmunk Creek, flowing from Sat- 
terly's Mills; also b\- tlic Silver stream draining a portion of Blagg's 
Clove, and furnishing at the old Coleman Mills, the excellent water sup- 
ply of Washingtonville. The united stream is called Murdner's or Mur- 
derer's Creek, to which X. P. Willis gave the more poetical name of 
"^^oodna," where it entered the Hudson near Idlewild. These streams 
have along their bank beautiful natural meadows dotted with fine old 
trees, and the hill-tops are covere<l in places with sugar ma])le and chest- 
nut trees, making in the early spring time a beautiful picture of varied 
green, and in the autumn a glorious variety of colors, which, together with 
the fine apple orchards crowning the hillsides, justifies the name of Bloom- 
ing Grove. 



132 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

EARLY SETTLERS. 

Vincent Mathews seems to have been the first settler according to 
the record. He bought the Rip Van Dam Patent, August 22, 1721, and 
built a grist mill at the place since known as Salisbury. He named this 
estate "Mathewsfield." Thomas Goldsmith came next, about ten years 
later, and he took the Mompesson Patent. He built a house on the north 
bank of the Otterkill, now known as the "Walnut Grove Farm," near the 
present Washingtonville. Edward Blagg also settled upon this tract, 
known as "Blagg's Clove" about this time. Mathews sold his mill to 
John J. Carpenter, which was turned into a powder mill under a State 
contract in 1776, when under the kindling fires of patriotism the demand 
for powder became very active. 

In 1753 Jesse WoodhuU settled in Blagg's Clove, although he seems 
to have purchased the Richard Van Dam Patent upon which the Moffatt 
family afterward settled. Mr. Mathews, the original settler, was an 
attorney, and took an active part in the early history of the town. He 
sold 1,500 of his acres to Louis DuBois, of New Paltz, who built a 
tavern upon it which was kept by Zachariah DuBois in Revolutionary 
times. 

Prior to 1764 the territory of this town was a part of the Goshen 
precinct. From that time to 1799 it formed a part of the town of Corn- 
wall. The other prominent settlers of the town are believed to be included 
in the following list : 

John Brewster, Edward, Francis, Isaac, Jesse and Nathan Brewster, 
Daniel Brewster, George Duryea, Richard Goldsmith, Benjamin Gregory, 
John Hudson, Henry Hudson, William Hudson, Archibald Little, Tim- 
othy, James and Solomon Little ; James Mapes. and his sons Wines, 
Jesse, Robert, James, Barney, David, William and Thomas ; Elihu Marvin, 
a member of the Committee of Safety in 1775, also judge of the county 
in 1778; Seth, Nathan, James, Jesse and John Marvin, Samuel Mofifatt; 
James and Fletcher Mathews, sons of Vincent Mathews, who was a 
colonel in the Revolution and a leading citizen ; Thomas Moflfatt, member 
of the Committee of Safety from 1778 to 1794; Josiah, Samuel. Jacob, 
Stephen and Peter Reeder; Israel, Thaddeus, John, Jesse, Josiah and 
Samuel Seely, Bezaliel Seeley, Selah Strong, the first supervisor of the 
town ; Major Samuel and Captain Nathan Strong ; Nathaniel Sat- 



TOWN OF BLOOMING GRO\E. 133 

terly, member of Committee of Safety in 1775, and proprietor of 
Satterly's Mills in 1765; John and Selah Satterly ; James, Nathaniel and 
John Sayer ; Nathaniel Strong, member of Committee of Safety, who 
was shot at his door by Claudius Smith, October 6, 1778; Captain Jesse 
Woodhull, delegate to the first Provincial Convention, and member of 
the State Convention that revised the federal constitution in 1778; 
Abner Woodhull, George and Benjamin Wliittaker; Silas. Reuben and 
Birdseye Young; Stephen Mathews, Gilbert, Zachariah and John Du- 
Bois ; Hezekiah, Isaiah, Stephen, Isaac, Paul, Zepheniah, Charles, Aaron, 
Silas and Jeremiah Howell; Benjamin and Thomas Goldsmith; David 
Coleman, Caleb, Joab, Asahel, Micah, Silas, Richard and Jeremiah Cole- 
man ; Thomas, John, Francis and Richard Drake ; Nathaniel Coleman. 
Daniel Curtis. John Chandler, Henry and Oliver Davenport. 

Among other family names recorded are those of Carpenter, Moft'att, 
Owens. Gregg and Wooley. It is said of the Woodhull family that its 
ancestry is distinctly traced to the individual who came to England from 
Normandy with William the Conqueror in 1066. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATIONS. 

The town of Blooming Grove was organized March 23, 1799, the 
territory being taken from the more ancient Cornwall township. The 
name Blooming Grove had long been in use tor this part of Cornwall, 
being the name of the old village which was g^ven to distinguish it from 
Hunting Grove, a locality then in New Windsor. 

The first town meeting was held at the house of John Chandler, the 
first Tuesday of April, 1799. Selah Strong was then elected supervisor 
and Daniel Brewster town clerk. Two hundred dollars were raised for 
the support of the poor that year, and a $10 bounty was voted for each 
wolf killed within the town. IVIr. Brewster served as town clerk for 
thirty-seven years without intermission. There was little personal politics 
in those times, and public office was probably regarded as a public trust. 

In April, 1830. a part of the town was taken off in the formation of 
Hamptonburgh. In March, 1845, another small portion was set off to 
the town of Chester. 

Charles W. Hull has been town clerk since 1874, and has just been re- 
elected, so that his term will be nearly as long as John Brewster's. 

The house of John Brewster, at which the town meetings were held, 



134 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1765 to 1799, was kept as a hotel and was said to be the homestead of 
the Cooper family, upon which is now situated the Blooming Grove sta- 
tion and post-office. 

When the present town of Blooming Grove was formed, the principal 
center was at Blooming Grove, where the old church was erected, 1759. 
The first town meeting was held in the spring of 1759, at the house of 
John Chandler, who kept a general country store here several years pre- 
vious to this, also at Edenville, near Warwick, taking in wheat and other 
grain which was carted to New Windsor, ground at the old mill on 
Ouassai'c Creek, and shipped to the West Indies and exchanged for sugar, 
molasses and other products of the tropics, which were brought back to 
Orange County by the Hudson River to New Windsor, and exchanged 
again for grain and other farm products. John Chandler purchased in 1793 
a small farm, upon which his great-grandson, B. C. Sears, now resides. 
He was president of the Newburgh and New Windsor Turnpike Co., 
and of the Blooming Grove and Greycourt Turnpike Co., built by his 
son-in-law. Hector Craig. He was an elder in the Blooming Grove 
Church and a large land owner in this part of the county. 

The village of Blooming Grove then consisted of the old church and 
the old Blooming Grove academy, built about 1810, to which many of 
the students came from the neighboring towns, boarding with the neigh- 
•bors about. A part of it was used as a district school until 1857, when 
'the present building was built upon the old academy site. A blacksmith- 
shop, kept later by Pierson Genung, a drug store, a cooper shop, the old 
toll-gate, the country store, and the hotel kept by Benjamin Thompson, 
wlrere were held the town meetings, general trainings, etc., and the public 
were entertained, were on this the main thoroughfare from Warwick to 
New Windsor and later Newburgh. This property was conveyed to Sam- 
u^r-Moffatt, Jr., merchant, by the executors of Rev. Benoni Bradner, and 
by him to Seth Marvin in 1810, who built a store-house on a lot purchased 
of Charles Howell, 1810. Blooming Grove now consists only of the old 
clfurch, the parsonage and the schoolhouse, and half a mile away the 
station, store and post-office, kept by C. C. Gerow, and the creamery 
owned by the Sheffield, Slawson, Decker Co. 

VARIOUS RESIDENTS, 

In 1810, Samuel "Mofifatt, Jr., having sold his place in Blooming Grove, 




Charles R. Bull. 



TOWN OF ULUUMIXG GRO\'E. 135 

moved to a new settlement at Washingtonville, building the old corner 
store, now owned by George A. Owen. Across the highway Moses Ely, 
the father of the late Dr. Ely, of Xewburgh, had a tannery, and John 
Jaques, then a young man, opened here a shoe-shop. The old corner 
store, built in the woods almost, there being only two other dwellings, (a 
log house owned by James Giles and the private school of Jane Sweezey), 
was carried on by Samuel Aloffatt and his son David, either alone or as 
members of the firm, from 1812 to 1832; then John S. Bull, 1832-1839; 
Walter Halsey and Apollis Halsey, 1839-1850; and the Warners and Wil- 
liams Howell, 1850 to 1890, and George A. Owen, 1890, to this date. This 
store has always been, and is still, a prominent landmark in Washington- 
ville. In 1 81 3, Jedediah Breed came to Washingtonville from Dutchess 
County, and built a harness shop adjoining the dwelling house now owned 
by his grandson, George A. Owen, and which has been occupied as a har- 
ness shop for nearly 100 years. Here Henry F. Breed kept the Blooming 
Grove post-office for forty years, nearly continuously ; after his death the 
post-office was removed to the building of Alexander Aloore. where, in 
1872, the name was changed from Blooming Grove to Washingtonville. 

Alexander Aloore and his brother-in-law, Albert G. Owen, the father 
of George A. Owen, carried on a furniture and paint business here from 
1830 to 1850, Moore being the postmaster and Owen, supervisor and 
justice for many years, and a member of the Assembly, 1849- 1850. This 
village soon grew to be important, and is now one of the finest villages of 
its size in Orange County, having a beautiful shaded avenue of maples 
and many handsome residences. There are the Presbyterian and Methodist 
churches. Catholic Church of St. Mary, and the beautiful ^NIofFatt Librar)-, 
given to the village by David H. Moffatt, of Denver, and erected untler 
the careful supervision of John Xewton Moffatt, having a fine collection 
of books and a beautiful hall which is the convenient center for much 
social enjoyment; the large feed mill, originally built by David H. ^Mof- 
fatt, the father of David H., and now carried on by the Thomas Fulton 
Co., together with a large coal and lumber business; a similar establish- 
ment carried on by Hector Moffatt & Son, and the very large wine vaults 
of the Brotherhood Wine Co., successors to the Ja(|ues brothers' \incyard 
established in 1838. The Bordens also have here a large creamery, and 
there is also the Farmers' Creamery, now operated by the Mutual Milk and 
Cream Co.. making this the most imf)ortant station upon the Xewburgh 



136 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Branch of the Erie Railroad. It is surrounded by beautiful homes and 
thrifty farms. Within the corporation line are the home and farm of Wil- 
liam H. Hallock, who owns several of the old ancestral homes throughout 
the town, which he has improved, and still runs with great business ability ; 
also the ancestral homes of the Brooks family, descendants of Fletcher 
Mathews, one of the original settlers, and also the old Nicoll homestead, 
now occupied by Charles Nicoll. 

Northwest of Washingtonville is the old Joseph Moffatt homestead, 
now- held by his grandsons, C. R. Shons and S. L. Moffatt, who have 
beautiful orchards, which, with that of Jesse Hulse, crown the beautiful 
hilltop and have made "Blooming Grove apples" famous both at home 
and abroad; also the Walnut Grove farm, upon which the first Gold- 
smiths settled, and made famous by Alden Goldsmith and his sons, 
James and John A., now in the hands of the widow of John A. and her 
husband, Mr. O. B. Stillman ; also the home of the late Captain Thomas 
N. Hulse, so long and so favorably known years ago to all travelers upon 
the Hudson River, now the home of his niece, Mrs. James A. Knapp, 
daughter of Benjamin Moffatt. Two and a half miles east of the village 
of Washingtonville is the village of Salisbury Mills, the oldest settle- 
ment of the town, where, on the falls of Murderer's Creek, Vincent 
Mathews built his mill, which later was owned by Captain Richard Cald- 
well, by Peter Van Allen, by Isaac Oakly, and is now the Arlington paper 
mills, owned and operated on a very large scale by Henry Ramsdell. 
Here in 1803 came John Caldwell, and with him his three sons, John, 
Andrew J. and Richard. Richard, then a mere lad, had been at the head 
of a company in the Emmet Rebellion, and through the clemency of 
Lord Cornwallis his sentence of death was commuted to banishment 
for himself and his father's family. He came to Salisbury with his father, 
and in 1808 married a daughter of John Chandler. He had the mill and 
a store at Salisbury. When the war with England in 181 2 became a 
certainty, Richard Caldwell raised the 25th Co. Infantry of soldiers, was 
elected their captain, and led them toward Canada, crossing Lake Cham- 
plain in open boats, in a severe storm. He divided his extra clothing 
with his soldiers, and contracted a severe cold, resulting in pneumonia, 
and he died December 11, 1812, and is buried at Champlain, near Platts- 
burg. His name is perpetuated by the beautiful monument erected in Salis- 
bury Mills by his nephew, Richard Caldwell, to his memory and the mem- 



TOWN OF i;l()v)Mixg (;ro\e. 137 

ory of those who perished with him in that ill-advised and ill-equipped ex- 
pedition; also to the memory of Captain Isaac XicoU and those who died 
with him, in the War of the Rebellion. Captain Richard Caldwell left 
two children, John R. Caldwell, long well known as a prominent citizen 
of New Windsor, and Mary, the wife of Marcus Sears, M.D. The old 
house erected by John Caldwell in 1803 is still standing, long known as 
the home of Andrew J. Caldwell and his son, Richard Caldwell, both of 
whom stood firm for righteousness and temperance. In a part of the same 
grounds was the home of a sister, Mrs. Chambers, now occupied by the 
widow of Richard Caldwell, and from which still emanates a powerful in- 
fluence for good to the whole village. Also the old home of the oldest 
son, John Caldwell, who was a merchant in Xew York, and on retiring 
came to live with his kindred in Salisbury, was the first president of the 
Orange County Agricultural Society, and was much interested in keeping- 
silk worms and actually produced silk from the mulberry trees growing 
on his grounds in Salisbury. 

Near the village stands a part of the old stone house, the home of 
Major DuBois, who was a prominent man in the War of the Revolution, 
as major in Colonel Woodhull's regiment, who was a prisoner for ten 
months in the hands of the British, and who lost his extensive lands by 
the depreciation of the Colonial money and his enforced absence from 
home; also the beautiful home of the family of Hon. Robert Denniston. 
The ancestor of the Denniston family was Alexander Denniston, the 
brother-in-law of Charles Clinton, who with many of his friends and 
neighbors, all being Scotch Presbyterians, and tired of the exactions and 
demands of the crown, emigrated from the town of Edgeworth. county 
of Longford, Ireland, in the early summer of 1729. After a long, tedious 
voyage of nearly five months, they landed on Cape Cod ; thence two years 
later they came to Little Britain. A family legend is, that these pioneers 
stood upon a hilltop about two miles northeast of Washingtonville and 
called the land in sight to the north, Little Britain, and there they settled. 
Alexander had six sons, James, George. Alexander. William, John. 
Charles, and four daughters. They were all stern patriots devoted to their 
country. The father was a member of Colonel Ellison's New Windsor 
regiment in 1738. and on frontier service in 1755. The six sons w^ere all 
members of the Third Ulster County regiment, which was called out 
many times during the dark days of the Revolution. Two were members 



138 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the Committee of Safety and one served in the line during the whole 
war. Of these sons James was the only one that settled in the town of 
Blooming Grove, the others settling elsewhere, New Windsor, Cornwall, 
etc. He purchased, in 1790, the farm one mile east of Washingtonville, 
which still remains in the family. He had three sons, James, Alexander, 
Abraham, and two daughters. He died in 1805, leaving the homestead 
to his son James. The latter had one son, Robert, and four daughters, 
Dying in 1825, the homestead was inherited by his son Robert. The latter 
served as an officer of the militia, was justice of the peace in his native 
town, judge of the Court of Common Pleas in Orange County, was 
elected member of the New York State Assembly in 1835, and again 
in 1839 and 1840, and was State senator from 1841-1847 and State 
comptroller in i860 and 1861. He was very active and energetic in his 
endeavors to maintain the Union during the War of the Rebellion, and 
was chairman of the military commission in the Orange and Sullivan 
Counties district. He had five sons, William Scott, James Otis, Robert, 
Henry Martyn, Augustus, and six daughters. These sons, like their an- 
cestors, were all interested in the war for the preservation of the Union, 
and served either in the army or navy. William Scott was a surgeon 
in the volunteer army and died of fever, July, 1862. James Otis was first 
lieutenant and captain, Company G, 124th N. Y. State V^olunteers, July 
2, 1862, to September 3, 1863, when, on account of wounds, he was mus- 
tered out. He afterwards studied theology and retired from active 
church work in 1905. Augustus was first lieutenant and quartermaster 
in the same regiment from July 15, 1862, to February 3, 1863. resigning 
on account of physical debility. Henry Martyn entered the pay corps 
of the U. S. Navy in September, 1861, and after serving over forty years, 
on reaching the age of sixty-two years was placed on the retired list with 
the rank of rear admiral. Robert served as his assistant from March, 1863, 
to October, 1863, resigning on account of ill health, and died August, 1864. 
Augustus was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1874-1875, 
and president of Or'ange County Agricultural Society, 1879, to date; also 
president of Highland National Bank, and resides on the old homestead, 
which he owns. 

West of Blooming Grove about two miles is located the village of 
Craigville, upon the falls of the Greycourt Creek, which formerly al- 



TOWN Ol- I'.LOOMIXG GRO\'E. 139 

lowed three dams, all now gone, the combined power of which, together 
with the fact that the stream may be rej)lenished from Walton Lake, 
or Long Pond, will at s<ime future date be of value, as it was in the past. 
On the u]ii)er fall was located in the early days a forge, and some of the 
old slag is still in evidence. In later years a saw-mill and grist-mill were 
erected by Hector Craig, used afterward as the first manufactory of 
Hornby's Oats — ¥1. O. The machinery has been removed since to Ijuffalo. 
The second fall was utilized by James Craig and his son. Hector Craig, 
for a paper mill in 1790. 

After the death of Hector Craig, Barrett Ames, a son-in-law of Hector 
Craig, who had been a cotton merchant in Mobile, and his son-in-law, E. 
Peet, erected here a cotton factory, which was operated successfully for 
a number of years, but after the death of Mr. Ames, the property passed 
into other hands, and the cotton factory was burned down. Later the high 
(lam was swept away and nothing remains but the ruins and the old house, 
which was once surrounded by beautiful gardens and was the scene of 
much social life when the home of Hector Craig, Barrett Ames and Irving 
\'an Wart, who was a son-in-law of Mr. Ames. At this home Wash- 
ington Irving, an uncle of Irving Van Wart, made one of his last visits, 
if not his last visit, far away from Sunnyside. To this old home came 
James Craig, in 1790, from Paisley, Scotland, bringing with him his 
family. His son. Hector Craig, born in Scotland, 1775, married a daugh- 
ter of John Chandler. 1796. He was a member of Congress, 1823-1825 and 
1829-1830. He was a strong supporter of Andrew Jackson, is said to 
have cast the first vote in Congress for Andrew Jackson for President, 
and was by him ajipointed surveyor of the port in 1830, and L'. S. com- 
missioner of bankruptcy in 1832. Hector Craig carried on the paper 
mill during his life, and also for a time the manufacture of hemp from 
the Chester meadows, which had been drained by act of Legislature in 
1790. The old storehouse built by him is still carried on by Edwin 
Duryea, and the old hotel is still standing, a part of the Hornby prop- 
erty. The third fall, much lower, turned the mill of L^ncle Silas Sea- 
man and his son, Valentine Seaman, but is now^ out of use, and the prop- 
erty of H. S. Ramsdell. Just beyond the terminus of the Blooming 
Grove and Greycourt turnpike is the old Greycourt Cemetery, the burial 
place of many respected citizens of this and adjoining towns. 

Two miles south of Craigville is situated Oxford Depot, on the Erie 



I40 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Railroad, with a general country store, kept formerly by Peter B. Taylor, 
but for many years the store and post-office have been in charge of S. C. 
Van Vliet, who has also served the town as supervisor, justice, etc. 
Here is also a creamery run by the Alexander Campbell Co. The old 
settlement of Satterly's Mills and the adjacent Campbell Tillotson prop- 
erty are now the beautiful country residence of William Crawford, a well- 
known New York merchant, who is doing much to improve that part of 
the town. Near Oxford Depot is the beautiful home of Judge Charles 
R. Bull, supervisor from 1899 to 1903, and associate judge of County 
Court, and a lineal descendant of Sarah Wells. The old-time homes of 
the Seelys and Marvins and the Fletcher Woodhull families, for a long 
time famous for their well-tilled farms, and in the old times well finished 
fat cattle, have passed from their hands, with the single exception of that 
of Courtland Marvin, still in the hands of his grand-daughter, Fannie 
Marvin, regent of Blooming Grove Chapter, D. A. R., and grand- 
daughter of Fannie Woodhull Marvin, mentioned by Eager in his sketch 
of Claudius Smith as being used by her mother, wife of Captain Wood- 
hull, in saving the family silver. The stone house built under the 
supervision of William S. Woodhull is still the property of the widow 
of his son, Jesse Woodhull, who was a daughter of Marcus Sears and 
Mary Caldwell. And the Youngs homesteads are still held by their de- 
scendants, Joseph W. Young, Mrs. Durland and the family of William 
B. Hunter. The Bulls in the southern part of the town near Monroe, 
still dwell upon the old homestead. John Brewster, the town clerk 
of Cornwall, 1765-1799, lived near Blooming Grove, and a part of his 
old homestead remains in the hands of his descendants, Thomas C. and 
Walter H. Brewster, who have both been supervisors of the town, and 
whose beautiful homes are beside the Tappan on Satterly's Creek, and 
near the ancestral home of Selah E. Strong, supervisor of Blooming 
Grove, 1875- 1882, and sheriff of Orange County, 1888- 1889- 1890, and is 
now the home of his widow and their son, Sherwood Strong. This fine, 
old home was built by his grandfather, Selah Strong, the first super- 
visor of the new town of Blooming Grove, having been justice of the 
peace for the town of Cornwall for ten years. His father, Major Na- 
thaniel Strong, came to this farm with the Howells and Woodhulls from 
Long Island, and married Hannah, daughter of Major Nathaniel Wood- 
hull. He was a prominent citizen, a major in the Continental Army, and 







CQ 



o 



E 
15 
< 



TOWN OF BLOOMING GRON'E. 141 

was murdered in liis home on his farm, by the notorious Claudius Smith, 
October 6. 1778. This homestead adjoins that of the Strong family, now 
occupied by Charles F. Bull, from which came :Major Samuel Strong and 
Captain Nathan Strong, who was at Valley Forge with the Continental 
Army. The descendants of Samuel Strong now live in Blooming Grove 
on the Benjamin Strong farm, near the Blooming Grove church, and 
Charles Strong in Blagg's Clove. This homestead adjoins that of Colonel 
Jesse Woodhull, who settled here on 500 acres of land in 1753, aged eigh- 
teen years, a part of which still remains in the family of N. D. Woodhull. 
The Woodhidl family were descendants from Richard Woodhull. born 
in North Hampton, England, 1620. Zealous for English liberty during 
the Protectorate, he sought freedom here. His grandson, Nathaniel, 
married into the Smith family, wdio were large proprietors of St. 
George's Manor, L. I. His daughter, Hannah, married Major Na- 
thaniel Strong. His son. General Nathaniel Woodhull, remained upon the 
old homestead at Mastic, Long Island, and took an active part in oppos- 
ing British oppression, and was killed by a British officer, September 2, 
1776, tradition says because he would not say. ''God save the King.' " Jesse 
settled in Blagg's Clove, and his son Richard married Hannah, daughter 
of Judge William Smith, of Long Island, and was the father of William 
Smith and Nathaniel DuBois. William Smith was the father of William 
Henry Howell and Jesse Woodhull, and Nathaniel was the father of Rich- 
ard and Francis Mandeville and grandfather of Nathaniel D. Woodhull, 
well known in Orange County as a leader of the New York milk business. 
Adjoining the Woodhull tract is the old Howell homestead to which 
Hezekiah Howell came from Long Island about 1730, and tradition says 
that as they came over Schunemunk Mountain they were obliged to 
stand by their horses to prevent the wild turkeys from eating up their 
oats. He with Sylvanus White and others took up the patent of 2.000 
acres called Blagg's Clove, and he married a daughter of Job Sayre in 
1735. His son. Hezekiah 2(1. was bom here. 1741. and married Juliana, 
daughter of Nathaniel Woodhull. of Mastic. L. I. His son. Charles 
Howell, was born in 1752. married a daughter of Major Nathaniel 
Strong, and after her death. Elizabeth, daughter of Charles Board, and 
.settled near the Blooming Grove church, upon a farm of 150 acres, 
which still remains in the hands of the family of his son. Edmund S. 
Howell. He served in the Independent Corps under General George 



142 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Clinton in building Fort Putnam, and was on guard after the burning 
of Kingston. Hezekiah Howell was the first supervisor of the old town 
of Cornwall, and was sheriff of Orange County during the Revolution. 
His son, Hezekiah 3d, married Frances, daughter of Major Tuthill, of 
Orange County. His grandson, Nathaniel W., graduated from Williams 
in the year 1853, was supervisor of Blooming Grove, 1871 and 1872, 
and a member of Assembly, 1863- 1864. He has lived upon the old Howell 
homestead, and also inherited his father's farm, and has just conveyed 
the whole Howell tract of 700 acres to C. T. Purdy, who is as closely 
connected with Sheriff Howell as Nathaniel W. Sylvanus White, Jr., 
was born on Long Island, Southampton, and was son of Sylvanus and 
Phoebe Howell. They came with the Howells and Woodhulls and 
Strongs and Moft'atts, to Blagg's Clove, and settled upon 300 acres of 
land. His daughter married Anselm Helme, and the family still retain 
the old Helme homestead, near Coleman's Mills. His son, Nathan H. 
White, was born in 1770, entered Columbia College at the age of eighteen, 
and graduated in 1781 in the same class as John Randolph of Roanoke. He 
taught a classical school in Montgomery for six years, and was principal 
of the Newburgh Academy two years. Returning to the old home in 1802, 
he married Frances, daughter of Hezekiah and Juliana Woodhull Howell 
and added 200 acres to the old homestead. He was elected first judge 
of Orange County, and was the friend and associate of Judges Kent, 
Van Ness, Piatt and others; in 1806 was commissioned by Governor 
Morgan Lewis, captain of an Orange County Company of Militia. His 
son, Albert S. White, went to Indiana about 1825, was a member of 
Congress from Indiana two terms, and U. S. Senator contemporary with 
Clay, Calhoun and Webster. One daughter married Harvey Denniston, 
and after his death, John Nicoll, of Washingtonville. and the old White 
homestead is still held by her son, Charles Nicoll ; and from this union 
of the Woodhulls with the Strongs and the Howells and from the Wood- 
hull family came the numerous descendants who, together with the 
Seelys, Tuthills and Moffatts, Hulses, Hudsons, Duryeas, etc., have com- 
bined to make the old town well known, both at home and in very many 
distant States, as one after another has left his ancestral acres to seek 
a home, if not a fortune, in other parts of our native land. Those 
who remained at home have kept the ancestral acres up to the 
standard of productiveness set by their fathers, have been the sup- 



TOWN OI' r.T.OOMIXG C;K()\ !•:. 143 

porters of the old church and <il the schools, and have erected beau- 
tiful homes. 

Instead of the droves of fatted cattle which slowly wended their way 
through the Ramapo X'alley to the Christmas market in the city, and 
the county butter, now the Erie Railroad carries its daily freight of 
milk, and the accustomed leisure, the good old-fashioned all-day visits, 
and early teas, have given way to the daily rush to the trains, or cream- 
eries, and the more elaborate, though no more enjoyable festal occasions. 
with formal invitations and great preparations. 

Who shall succeed these old families who have so loyally supported 
the Church, the State and the School? Shall their fine residences, which 
now crown the hilltops, with their beautiful views, and the valleys 
with their peaceful streams, attract the residents of the nearby cities, as 
the neighboring town of Monroe is doing? Or will these homes ^ass into 
the hands of those who have to labor for their daily bread, day by day, 
and neither the one nor the other caring for the traditions of the past, 
caring not for the old churches, the old burial grounds, nor anything of 
the past. 

This question comes home to many of us, as we see the changes going 
on about us, and we cannot answer. 

CHURCHES AND P.\STORS. 

The first house of worship was erected in Blooming Grove, 1759. The 
old church stood until 1823, when the present building was erected. The 
first pastor was Rev. Enos Ayres, who stood first on the roll of the first 
class graduated at Princeton College. He died in 1762 and was buried in 
the old burial ground, a part of which, including his grave and the graves 
of Rev. Samuel Parkhurst and Rev. Benoni Bradner, was covered by the 
new church building. In 1764 he was succeeded by Rev. Abner Reeve, 
father of the celebrated Judge Reeve, who founded the law school at 
Litchfield, Conn. Rev. Abner Reeve resigned about 1786. In 1786, Rev. 
Samuel Parkhurst came as a supply and soon died here, and his grave 
is also under the present church. Then followed, in 1770, Rev. Anasiah 
Lewis, Rev. Case, Rev. Green and Rev. Silas Constant, as stated supplies 
for a time. Rev. Benoni Bradner filled the pulpit from 1786 until 1892, 
dying in 1804. He was buried here, his stone still standing erect un ler 



144 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the church. After his retirement Rev. Joel T. Benedict preached a few 
months. Rev. Noah Crane, 1803 to 181 1. He was succeeded by Rev. 
WilHam Rafferty, who married a daughter of John Chandler and re- 
signed in 1815, to become president of St. John's College, Annapolis, 
Maryland. Returning on a visit in 1830, he died here, and is buried in 
the old Chandler family burial ground on the old homestead now occu- 
pied by B. C. Sears. August 7, 1816, Rev. Luther Halsey was installed as 
pastor. The church was admitted under the care of the Presbytery, 
with the reservation of its form of government, and remained in the 
Presbytery of Hudson until 1833, but has always been in fact Congrega- 
tional. Rev. Luther Halsey served the church with great acceptance. 
Great revivals blessed his ministry, at one time nearly one hundred 
being added to the church. The present church building was erected 
under his ministry, and frequently filled. He resigned in 1824 to accept 
a professorship in Nassau Hall ; later became professor of theology in 
Alleghany, in Auburn, and in Union Seminaries. He died in Pittsburgh 
on November 2, 1880, aged eighty-seven years. He was succeeded at 
Blooming Grove by James Arbuckle, then pastor of the Eighth Presbyte- 
rian Church of Philadelphia, who was pastor of the church until his death, 
July, 1847. In 1847, Rev. Ebenezer Mason, son of the celebrated John M, 
Mason, D.D., of New York City, became pastor, who died here the next 
year. After his death the pulpit was supplied until April, 1851, when Rev. 
Austin Craig was called, and served this church for fourteen years, when 
he resigned to accept the presidency of Antioch College, Ohio, and later 
was president of the Biblical School at Stanfordville, Dutchess County, 
N. Y., where he died, but is still held in loving remembrance by many 
of the congregation and in the town. He was succeeded in April, 1866, 
by Rev. Warren Hathaway, D.D., who still occupies the pulpit. Although 
he has had frequent calls to what seems to have been more attractive fields 
of labor, he still remains loyal to his old congregation and they to him. 
Both Eager and Ruttenber, to whom we are indebted for part of the facts 
herein stated, excuse a lengthy report of this old church, because of its 
being one of the landmarks of the town, and it still stands for right- 
eousness, temperance, and charity toward all those laboring for the 
good of their fellow-men, but the congregation is greatly changed. In 
the place of the Marvins, and Seelys, Moflfatts and Roes, who came in 
large loads containing the whole families, come very few of those still 



TOWN OF BLOOMING GROVE. I45 

left of tlie Woodhulls and Marvins. Although the Tuthills and the 
Shons, who represent the old Moflfatt family, the Hulses and Hudsons, 
Gerovvs and Sears, and Howells and Brewsters, still contribute their 
quotas toward the congregation, there are many vacant pews, and very 
manv who trooi)cd up the long aisles, and listened attentively to the in- 
structive and eloquent sermons, and visited upon the old door stones, are 
seen there no more. In place of the tall form of David H. Aloffatt, Jr., 
who used to lead the choir in the old gallery, stands the handsome pipe 
organ erected to his father's memory by David H. Mofifatt, of Denver. 
And the clmrcli has a fund in memory of David Wright, given by his 
daughter Susan Wright. 

In. 1830, an ctYort was made to start an Episcopal church in Washing- 
tonville, but met with no success. August 21, 1851, under the leader- 
ship of Rev. Henry Belden, a Congregational church was organized, and 
a building erected, which was afterward sold to the Methodist congre- 
gation, incorporated 1855. The First Presbyterian Church of ll'ash- 
ingtonville was organized 1841. Connected with the Hudson Presbytery 
under the charge of Rev. Henry Belden the church grew to a member- 
ship of 121, when Rev. Henry Helden was succeeded by Rev. Phineas 
Robinson. A cluirch l)uil(ling was erected in 1847, ^"<^^ ^ev. Luther 
Halsey was called to succeed liim and occupied the pulpit until October. 
1856. Rev. Daniel Higbee served the church from August, 1858, until 
his death. October. 1867. He was succeeded by John Griswold, who 
served until April, 1871, when he was succeeded by Rev. James B. Beau- 
mont. 1 87 1 to 1 881, George W. Morrill from 1882 to 1884. when an effort 
to unite the congregations of the First and Second Churches was made, 
but failed. In 1886, Rev. Joseph Greenleaf was called, and died in 
1888. ^^■illiam M. Yeoman was pastor from 1898 to October. 1902. John 
A. McCallum. installed 1903, resigned June 20, 1907, leaving the cluirch 
without a pastor at this date. Their church proj)crty has been increased 
by a new parsonage, 1872. and a handsome chapel and Sunday school- 
room, to the memory of Mary Scott Denniston, the widow of Hon. 
Robert Denniston, erected by her children. 

In 1855, Dr. Luther Halsey, having a matter of difference with the 
New School Assembly, did not feel he could any longer remain under 
its care, and many of his congregation joining with him, they formed 
the Old School Prcshxtcrian Church of Washini^tonville. The chur:h 



"146 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

was organized in 1857, a house of worship built in 1858, and a parsonage 
added in 1871. Dr. Luther Halsey occupied the pulpit until April, 1862, 
when Rev. Arthur Harlow was called and ordained and installed, Sep- 
tember, 1863; resigned in October, 1871, and died June 19, 1883. In 
1872, B. G. Benedict became stated supply until 1875, when on account 
of ill health he resigned and was succeeded by Rev. N. M. Sherwood, 
who served the church ten years, resigning in 1885 in order that his 
occupying the pulpit might not embarrass the effort to unite the two 
Presbyterian churches. This effort failing. Rev. Eugene L. Mapes was 
called, April, 1886; installed 1887, and resigned a year later, having re- 
ceived a call to the Presbyterian church of Carlisle, Pa. The church 
was then supplied for some time, and then sold its property, and divided 
the proceeds between the Foreign and Home Mission Boards of the Pres- 
byterian Church, part of the congregation giving to the First Presby- 
terian Church and part to the old Blooming Grove Church, and part to 
Bethlehem and Little Britain. 

The Blooming Grove Methodist Episcopal Church was incorporated De- 
cember 3, 1855. This is now the Washingtonville Methodist Church. It 
was for a long time on the circuit of Monroe, Oxford, Craigville and 
Highland Mills, but now is associated with the church at Salisbury Mills, 
has a fine church property, kept in very good repair, and has recently 
installed electric lights in connection with other improvements. 

The Catholic Church of St. Mary is near Washingtonville on the State 
road, the first building erected in 1872, has been of late much enlarged 
and beautified under the direction and by the efifort of Rev. Father 
Tetrau, and now has a fine property consisting of the enlarged church 
and rectory. 

The Methodist Church of Salisbury Mills was incorporated in 1854, 
was connected with the New Windsor circuit until 1898, when it was 
connected with Washingtonville. It has a convenient and finely located 
building. 

In Salisbury, largely through the efforts of Richard Caldwell and his 
wife, Sarah Beattie Caldwell, the Hope Chapel, connected with the Beth- 
lehem Presbyterian Congregation, was built, and has been an active or- 
ganization ever since, and its Sunday school, supported by its founders, 
is large and active, and Sunday evening and other services well attended. 

The Satterly Town Methodist Church was organized in 1855, a house 



TOWN OF BLOOMING GRO\E. 147 

built and services held for some time, but its supporters, withdrawing or 
niovmg from the neighborhood, the building was removed. Also about 
1850 a cliurch was erected at Craigville, for the use of that village and 
neighborhood, which soon passed into the hands of the Methodist organ- 
ization, and was on the circuit with Washingtonville for many years, but 
service has for a long time been discontinued, though the building still 
stands in fair repair and is beautifully situated. Still another Methodist 
church was built about one mile south of Oxford Depot and used for 
the purpose of worship, but now has been turned to secular use- also 
near this was the Friends meeting house, now used as a dwellino- 



148 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XII. 

TOWN OF CHESTER. 

By Frank Durland. 

CHESTER is one of the interior towns of Orange County, situated 
on the main line Erie RailroaJ, which together with the Newburgh 
branch, Lehigh and Hudson and Orange County Railroads, make 
up the chief commercial outlets to the ports on the Hudson and Delaware 
Rivers. 

It consists of over sixteen thousand acres of fine farming land and is 
a noted dairy and stock farming section of the Empire State. Consider- 
able enterprise has been shown in recent years in the culture of onions, 
celery and lettuce on the Greycourt meadows, which are among :he most 
fertile of all the alluvial deposits of the country. 

The title of most of the land of the township is from the famous 
Wawayanda patent, which covered the land deeded by the twelve native 
Indian proprietors, who signed a deed, March 5, 1703, for all the land 
from the high hills of the Hudson to the Shawangunk Mountains and 
the Jersey line. The highest points of vantage in Chester township, 
from which magnificent views may be obtained of the whole Wawayanda 
country, are Sugar Loaf Mountain, 1,220 feet elevation, and Goose Pond 
Mountain, 826 feet above the sea level. From these pinnacles may be 
seen the Catskills, which are much higher and further removed than the 
Shawangunk range of mountains. 

The elevation in Chester village at Durland Square is 485 feet, and 
on the ridge back of the Presbyterian Church, extending toward Craig- 
ville, may be obtained extended views of a large portion of Orange 
County, spread out in every direction. 

The H. W. Wood hills at East Chester, the T. S. Durland ridge at 
Greycourt, and the Guy Miller gravel hill, each have a magnificent out- 
look over a large scope of the country from Schunnemunk to Shawan- 
gunk. In the valleys between these ridges are the old highways following 
in some instances, Indian trails. It is but natural that along these roads 
the present village should have grown up. 




^^ 




^<^^i^^^=^^^ 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 149 

The road from Xewburgh through Chester to Trenton and Morris- 
town, N. J., is often spoken of in the Clinton papers and in more recent 
years it has been known as the King's Highway. It has been a noted 
road since Colonial days, having often been used by General Washington 
during the Revolutionary War, It is the natural avenue for intercourse 
between Newburgh and New Jersey. Crossing this road at Durland's 
Square is the old Albany and New York stage road, which enters the 
town of Chester at the Goshen line and to the metropolis continues its 
course southward near Greycourt. Leaving this old stage road at Nano- 
witt Park, which has been recently donated to the town of Chester by 
Rev. E. T. Sanford, pastor of the North Baptist Church of New York 
City, is the old Indian trail, which became a popular road during the 
Colonial days and leads to Greenwood Lake and to the ancient Sterling 
Iron Works. This road was traveled by Peter Townsend, one of the 
owners of the Sterling Iron Works, who lived in Chester during the 
Revolution, and whose descendants continued to reside here for many 
years. 

There is also the new State road, No. 600. following quite closely 
the old Albany and New York road, excepting the course from Monroe 
to Chester is changed from the east to the west side of the Erie Railroad. 
The famous Glenmere Lake, formerly known as Thompson's Pond, is 
partly in the town of Chester, and is noted for its pickerel and bass 
fishing. Its area is about 400 acres. 

The streams of the town are known as the Otter Kill, which flows 
through West Chester and is joined at Lincolndaie by the Cromeline 
Creek, which was known in Colonial days as the "River." 

The Cromeline has its sources of sujjply near the northern headwaters 
of Greenwood Lake in the watershed known as "Dutch Hollow ;" also 
from the outlet of Walton Lake, known in Colonial days as the "Little 
Long Pond" to distinguish it from Greenwood Lake, which in the 
early period of our histor\- was known as Long Pond. Along the Crome- 
line Creek are the- fertile meadows formerly known as the Great Ikaver 
meadows. 

Since the erection of the Cromeline house in the year 1716, which 
stood on the south side of the road opposite the present home of \\ . R. 
Conklin, the meadows have been known as the Greycourt meadows, from 
the fact that this Cromeline house was known as the Grevcourt Inn. 



150 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

This name was also given to the cemetery, near this old inn, and when 
the Erie Railroad was built in 1841, this name was applied to the junction 
of the Erie Railroad with the Newburgh branch and the Warwick Val- 
ley, first called East and West Junction, afterwards Chesterville, and 
finally the euphonious name of Greycourt was decided upon as the name 
appropriate for the station adjoining these famous Greycourt meadows. 

COLONIAL AND REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. 

On the 22nd of August, 1775, the Provincial Congress of New York 
passed a law under which the militia of the Revolution was organized. 

The several companies so formed were directed to be joined into regi- 
ments to consist of not less than five nor more than ten companies. When 
the organization was perfected, the companies of Orange formed the 
Fourth Brigade under Brigadier General George Clinton. This brigade 
was composed of four companies of Ulster and five of Orange County, 
commanded respectively by Colonel Allison, whose regimental district 
included Goshen, of which Chester was then a part, and the western 
part of the county. There were Colonel Hathorn, whose district embraced 
Warwick and the settlements ; Colonel Woodhull, the district which is now 
Monroe and Blooming Grove; Colonel Hasbrouck's district, embracing 
Newburgh and vicinity ; Colonel Clinton's of New Windsor, Montgomery 
and Wallkill. 

During the early years of the war our people (located, as they were, 
not far removed from the Hudson) were almost constantly under arms 
or engaged in the construction of the forts of the Highlands, or pre- 
paring the obstructions to navigation through these Highlands. 

The contract for the making of the last chain drawn across the Hud- 
son at West Point, on April 30, 1778, was awarded at the home of Mr. 
Peter Townsend, who resided at this time in the old homestead opposite 
the Presbyterian Church, in Chester village, by Secretary of War, Mr. 
Pickering. Mr. Townsend, of the firm of Townsend & Noble, at this 
time was one of the owners of the Sterling furnace, where the chain 
was made. 

During the years 1776 to 1779 our troops were very active and were 
kept informed by the aid of cannon firing by day and beacon fires by 
night. From December, 1776, to April, 1778, our militia was called out 
no less than twelve times and spent 292 days in the field. 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 151 

At a meetinf:^ of tlic County Delegates called to meet at llie Yelverton 
Inn (still standing in Chester), on September 17, 1774, Henry Wisner 
was elected and sent as a delegate to the Continental Congress at Phila- 
delphia, "to protest against the unjust taxation." On December 9, 1776, 
General Clinton was ordered to co-operate with Generals Lee and Gates 
to harass the enemy, who had then entered northern New Jersey. The 
resolution read as follows : "That all the militia of Orange and Ulster 
Counties be forthwith ordered to march properly armed and accoutered 
with four days' provision to Chester, Orange County, N. Y." 

This fixes the date of the encampment of these troops on the hill 
where the present new modern school-house is being erected, as being 
about the latter part of December. 1776, or January, 1777. The encamp- 
ment probably consisted of part of the four regiments, under Colonels 
Allison, Hathorn, Wooflhull and Clinton. An order was issued on Jan- 
uary 4, 1777, dismissing part of these troops, leaving about 300 men 
in the above camp for the winter. 

One of the first engagements in which our Chester patriots took part, 
occurred at SufFern, October 3, 1777, when Major Thomas MofTatt or- 
dered Captain Wood and twenty men to cover the pass through the 
mountains at this point, where they intercepted a band of Tories, with 
the result of one robber killed and three wounded. 

Our company was engaged under Colonel Allison later on at Forts 
Montgomery and Clinton. While these events were transpiring on the 
Hudson, the western frontier was harassed by the incursions of the In- 
dians and Tories under the leadership of the educated half-breed Brant, 
together with Butler the Tory. Our troops becoming alarmed by the 
fugitives' accounts of the massacres and burnings taking place on the 
frontier. Colonel Hathorn, together with Lieutenant Colonel Trustin, of 
Colonel Allison's Goshen Regiment, and with such numbers of the com- 
mands as could be brought together in so brief a time, proceeded at once 
to Minisink, on July 22, 1779, to take part in that bloody battle on this 
date. Several of our Chester Company were among the brave troops. 

SURSEOUENT IIISTORICAr. INXIDEN'TS. 

After the Revolutionary War and until 1845, the village of Chester 
was a part of the township of Goshen, and had become quite an import- 



152 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ant trading center, being at the junction of the two leading State roads. 
Up to the time of the building of the Warwick Valley road, in 1863, 
now the Lehigh and Hudson, the pig iron from Wawayanda Lake 
forge was carted to Chester for shipment on the Erie, the butter and 
other farm produce from the Vernon Valley, extending as far as New- 
ton, N. J., was also brought to this point for shipment. It was but nat- 
ural that the trial to decide the boundaries of the Cheesecock and Wa- 
wayanda Indian patents should have been held at this place. In the 
year 1785, in the barn connected with the Yelverton Inn, erected in the 
year 1765, still standing, in good state of preservation, and owned by 
Joseph Durland, some of the older inhabitants and pioneers of Orange 
County met with the nation's most famous lawyers, Alexander Hamilton 
and Aaron Burr. The Wawayanda patentees were fortunate in securing 
these men during this trial, and many historical facts were brought out, 
through the witnesses sworn at this trial. In their testimony concerning 
what they knew about the early settlement of the country and the rela- 
tions of the whites to the native Indians, the evidence was set forth. The 
burden of the testimony seemed to prove that Schunemunk was not 
considered by the pioneers as the high hills of the Hudson. On this trial, 
Judge Elihu Marvin stated "that he was born in 1719 and moved in what 
is now known as the town of Chester in 1742. Whenever he visited 
Haverstraw and returned as far as the Ramapo River, it was always 
called beyond the High Hills of the Hudson." 

Hugh Dobbin, aged seventy-six, stated "that he lived near Sugar Loaf 
Mountain since 1738." 

Deliverance Conkling. who lived near Wickham's Pond, stated "that 
he was 71 years old, and has known personally Lancaster Symes, one of 
the Wawayanda patentees, and the pond as Goose Pond Mountain used 
to be called Cromeline Pond, and abounded in wild geese." 

Samuel Gale was born in 1737, and testified "that the Cheesecocks line 
had always been disputed." 

William Thompson was born in 1723, was chain bearer for Colonel 
Clinton and usually stopped, when surveying the Cheesecock patent, at 
Perry's near Wickham's Pond. He had talked with the Indians and re- 
mained at times in their wigwams." 

Ebenezer Holly, born 1698, stated "that he knew Captain Symes, Cap- 
tain Aske, Christopher Denn and Daniel Cromeline. In dispute with 





/. 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 153 

the Indians, Governor Burnet had decided that the IncHans must move 
off the land ; among the Indians who still claimed land were Rombout, 
Hons and Romer. He stated that Cromeline made his first improve- 
ment at Greycourt. 

John Kinner, a Chester resident, held land in this disputed tract under 
Mr. Wisner, Dr. Baird and Mr. Scott. 

James Board, aged sixty-five, born in England in 1720, came to this 
country with his father, Cornelius, and brother, David, in 1730; sent by 
Alexander, Lord Sterling, to discover copper mines ; discovered iron ore 
deposits at Sterling, built there a forge in 1735, and in the year of 1740 
removed to Ringwood. The mountains west toward Warwick were 
called by that name. The Sugar Loaf Mountain was called by that name 
as long as he remembered. 

Soon after the forge was going it was sold by Cornelius Board & 
Sons to Coldon & Ward. 

During this trial Burr and Hamilton were guests at the old Yclverton 
Inn. The court adjourned to meet again at Chester, in Yelvcrton barn, 
in October, 1785. at which session it was decided that Chccsecock patent 
should comprise all the land east of Goose Pond Mountain and the great 
Beaver Meadows, to the western line of Evans patent and the Hudson 
River. 

In the early part of the nineteenth century, living in and about West 
Chester, were Joseph Durland. born in 1762, Benjamin Dunning, Daniel 
Denton, James Roe and Michael Renton. On the Florida road lived 
Thaddeus Seely and Major Holbert. At Chester lived Asa \'ail opposite 
the second academy. Edmund Seely. Seth Satterly and Dr. Townsend 
Seely. Peter Townsend lived opposite the Presbyterian church. Isaac 
and William Townsend on the C. B. Wood ridge, Elmer Cooper and Dr. 
Dodd, .Aaron Cox. the hatter, and Stephen Cooper, born in 1788; David 
G. Drake, born in 1760. The old Samuel Satterly house stood on the 
brow of the hill, nearly opposite the joining of Old New York road, 
near the new State road ; from this point at the bridge, which was 
called in these early days the "P^irgatory Bridge." the most popular 
amusement was running races. The course lay from this bridge to the 
oak tree, which is still standing near H. \\". Woofl's residence. On 
special days. July 4. and in the atituinn, the i)copIe from miles around 
fairlv lined the short course in inimbc-rs from three to four hundred 



154 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

people. In fact, nearly double the number of our whole population at 
that period. Purses were usually made up at such times at the course, 
and great horses contested. Among them were Webber's "Kentucky 
Whip," a great running sire from Kentucky ; Tom Thumb and Saltrum. 
The visitation of such noted running stock to Chester was the beginning 
of an improvement in the racing stock of this section. This development 
found its climax in the birth of Hambletonian, the progenitor of the 
American trotter. 

When the old "Hero of Chester" died in 1876, he was buried on the 
hill on the W. M. Rysdyck place. Since that time a granite shaft costing 
$3,000, has been erected, to mark the resting place of this notable sire. 

About 100 years ago Isaac Kinner and Daniel Cooley lived on the 
western foothills of the Goose Pond Mountains. 

On the Craigville road lived Dr. John Boulton, Birdseye Young, Al- 
bert Seely, Samuel Denton, Hezekiah Moffatt and Jesse Carpenter. 

THE GROWTH OF A CENTURY. 

About 1 72 1, we find John Yelverton, of New Windsor, in this section. 
The deed recorded, 1765, by his grandson and executor, Abijah Yelver- 
ton, who kept the Yelverton Inn, in old Chester village, conveys three 
parcels of land in 1721 in Goshen to John Yelverton, in trust "for a 
parsonage, minister's house and burying place ; also to build a meeting 
house thereon or a public edifice for the worship of God in the way and 
manner of those of the Presbyterian persuasion," signed by twenty-four 
land owners in the different parts of the Wawayanda patent. This has ref- 
erence to the Goshen Presbyterian church. During this period Chester, 
with the rest of this part of the county, was included in the precinct 
of Goshen. 

Richard Edsall's survey, made in 1741, mentions William Seely and 
Rulof Swartwout as living in this neighborhood. 

The township of Chester is well arranged for the transaction of public 
business, and is the practical outcome of the ambitions of a progressive 
century. In 1845 from the towns of Goshen, Warwick, Blooming Grove 
and Monroe, the township was organized with James Gray as its first 
supervisor, 1845. 

The first deed that we find made mention of was John Beers as own- 





"^i^i^ 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 



155 



ing 120 acres of the Cromeline i)atent ; he sold the same June 16, 1751, to 
John Ensign, who in turn sold 42^ acres of the tract, on May 19, 1755, 
to John Yelverton, gentleman, for the sum of i)j£ and 4s, current money. 
Upon this land the village of Chester is located. 

Many familiar names of the families living in our township to-day 
are found on the assessment rolls of dist. No. 4, town of Goshen, of 
September. 1775. signed by Nathaniel Roe. 

This district may be described as running from Greycourt to Satterly- 
town, Sugar Loaf to Summerville, to Fort Hill, with no less than 119 
land owners with an assessed valuation of 370^ 8s. I7d. 

Abijah Yelverton, in the year of 1783, gave an acre of ground for 
church purposes. The year 1797 saw the beginning of the first meeting 
house. In 1708 the first minister began his labors in the Pre^>byterian 
church at $75 per annum, "with the privilege of teaching to piece out 
his support." This meeting house stood on the high ground in the rear 
of the residence of Dr. S. G. Carpenter, in the old village of Chester. It 
was commodious for the time, with square pews, but was used without 
being heated. The next church was built in 1829, and was located about 
the center of the present cemetery at East Chester. 

Our earliest district school-house stood opposite the Dr. Edmonston 
home in the old village. It was erected during the latter part of 1700. 
Another was located on the Goshen road near Dr. A. T. Sanden's resi- 
dence. Long before the noise of railroads disturbed the quiet of our 
hamlet, the mails were brought by the old stage coach. 

Chester was favorably situated for the exchange of mails, the Goshen 
stage running through here to meet the Newburgh and New York stage 
line at Southfield and the Warwick stage line, using our road to connect 
with the same line at Washingtonville. 

The first post-office was established in Chester in 1794. Joseph Wick- 
ham being the first j^ostmastcr located at West Chester, then and now a 
part of Chester village, .\fterward it was moved to the old village and 
in 1842 was removed to the building oj)])ositc the present Erie Railroad 
tower at Chester Station. The idea of offering fresh milk from the 
country to the distant consumer in the city originated with a road con- 
tractor named Selleck who interested some of our leading farmers in the 
project and succeeded in getting a su])ply sent by the Erie in the spring 
of 1842. It was shii)j)ed in the blue pyramid churns of that day. The 



156 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

first shipment were about six cans per day and freight charges were by 
weight, twenty cents per hundred pounds. The price paid the producer 
was two cents per quart, placed on the cars at Chester. The farmers 
soon finding that there was more money to be made from milk at two 
cents per quart than butter at fifteen cents per pound, began sending milk 
to Selleck. Thus the milk business of the county was born, and in spite 
of the many difficulties, this business has alone been the means of build- 
ing four railroads in Orange County and returned to it over $100,000,- 
000. 

In 1784 mention is made of a saw-mill on the trout brook, on the 
Sterling road. These mills are now known as Bull's Mills. A grist-mill 
was then operated on the opposite side of the stream. The old flouring 
mill at West Chester was established soon after the settlement was 
made. As late as the year 1820, an old mill stood upon the ground just 
above the present Chester mills. During these times they used two run 
of stone and never were compelled to shut down for lack of water. 

Chester's first library was incorporated November 17, 1779, with seven 
trustees, and was verified before Judge Wickham and recorded the same 
year. Abijah Yelverton was the first librarian. 

The war of 1861 occasioned a great demand for onions and our onion 
culture on the black meadows began about that time. Our average yearly 
production has been about 60,000 bushels. During revolutionary times 
a part of these meadows were cultivated for raising hemp ; later on, pota- 
toes and corn. 

INCORPORATION. 

The movement for both our present water supply and for the incorpo- 
ration of the village first took effective shape in the year 1891, when a 
few public-spirited citizens of the village subscribed to a fund to be 
expended in a survey to determine whether the water of Little Long 
Pond, now known as "Walton Lake," could be brought to the village 
under such pressure as would make it available for fire protection. The 
preliminary survey was made under the direction of Joseph Board and 
George M. Roe. The facts were convincing that this was a most favor- 
able project for a water supply. First, the organization of a private 
company was proposed, and from this developed the incorporation of 
our village, the citizens realizing that if we were to have a water supply. 





^;2^^/^^C_ 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 157 

it must be owned by tlie village. Accordingly this was done with the 
happy result that has made us the envy of our neighboring villages. 

On October 17, 1892, Mr. Joseph Board was appointed as resident 
superintendent in the construction of the water works, and when the 
water was turned on, in exactly a year, October 17, 1893, the inhab- 
itants of our village had the satisfaction of knowing that each length 
of pipe so laid had been under the inspection of our superintendent. 

The village of Chester was incorjiorated June 23. 1892. having a popu- 
lation of 1.400; 125 voters favored the incorporation and only the small 
number of thirteen opposed the proposition. At the first caucus, held July 
12, 1892, were nominated W. A. Lawrence as president; Joseph Durland, 
Ceorge M. Roe and Thad. S. Durland, trustees. At the first election, 
held July 20, 1892, the above citizens were elected to their respective 
offices. The village board was organized on the same date, naming 
Jose])h Board as village clerk. 

The board of water commissioners was organized August 15. 1892, 
with Messrs. W. A. Lawrence, Joseph Durland, George M. Roe and T. 
S. Durland as commissioners, and Joseph Board, clerk. A taxpayers' 
meeting was called September 2, 1892. to vote on the question of assess- 
ment for water-works, with the following results : Sixty-eight in favor, 
against seven. Contract was executed at a total cost of $53,000 at their 
final completion. 

This water supply for the village of Chester is one of the best in the 
State. The source is Walton Lake, formerly known as Little Long Pond, 
a beautiful sheet of spring water, covering an area of 127 acres, with a 
-torage capacity of 33^ feet, each foot of water giving a supply of over 
40.000.000 gallons. This su])ply is a gravity system. From this lake, at 
an elevation of 250 feet above the level of Main street, at Chester Sta- 
tion, giving a working pressure of 80 to 90 pounds, there was laid for 
water-mains, 8,197 ^^^^ of 12-in. pipe, 6.978 feet of 19-in. pipe, 14,820 
feet of 8-in. pipe, 5.748 feet of 6-in. pipe, 6.312 feet of 4-in. pipe. 

Since the introduction of Walton Lake water, both the Walton Hose 
C'om])any and Hook and Ladder Company have been organized. 

After the incorporation the present municipal brick building was 
erected at a cost of $5,000. In this building rooms for village officers 
and parlors used by the fire department are located. Tn connection 
with our fire department, there is an annual iu'^pcction. at which time 



158 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the Chester mihtary band of twenty-live members, under the leadership 
of George W. Ball, adds greatly to the village life. 

In the year 1905, the Orange and Rockland Electric Company was or- 
ganized, with R. W. Smith as president, and G. M. Roe as vice-presi- 
dent; Zael Paddleford, secretary; Frank Durland, treasurer. This com- 
pany was organized and stock subscribed for by the citizens of Chester 
and Monroe. 

The streets of the village, which were formerly lighted by kerosene, 
are now illuminated by electric current, generated by this company. Our 
Telford streets were laid in the year 1901, at a cost of $17,000. A dis- 
tance of two and one-quarter miles were constructed through the main 
streets of the village. 

CHURCHES. 

The Presbyterian Church of Chester, while it had been ministering to 
the spiritual needs of the community for more than a quarter of a 
century, effected its legal organization December 26, 1826, with David 
Roe, Henry Seely, James Holbert, Elnathan Satterly, Joseph Sherwood 
and Townsend Seely as trustees. 

The present house of worship, being the third erected by this congre- 
gation, was dedicated January 4, 1854. The present chapel was added 
in the year 1884. The church was remodeled and memorial windows 
added in the year 1898. In the year 1898 the church celebrated the cen- 
tennial of its existence with impressive services and the publication of an 
interesting history of its century of church life. 

The commodious parsonage adjoining the church was erected in 1895 
at a cost of about $8,000. 

Methodist Episcopal Church, Sugar Loaf. — Rev. Isaac Condee was 
the first Methodist preacher to visit Sugar Loaf, which he did in the 
year 1803 or 1804. and first preached in the home of John D. Conklin. 

In the fall of 1804 he organized the first class and appointed John D. 
Conklin, leader. It is the mother of all the Methodist churches within 
a radius of ten or twelve miles. 

The certificate of incorporation was executed on August 6, 1809. The 
trustees then chosen were Henry Wisner, Jr.. Joseph Beach. Andrew 
Cunningham, Benjamin Wells, Richard Wisner. Horace Ketchem, Elijah 
Stevens, John D. Conklin and Benjamin Horton. 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 159 

A subscription was taken and the tir>t church was built in year 1810. 
Ten }ears later, in the year 1820, the Sunday school was established. The 
parsonage was erected in the year 1832. The second church, the present 
building, was built in 1852, and at three separate times it has undergone 
repairs. Rev. J. B. Wakcley, D.D., preached the sermon at the dedica- 
tion of the church in the year 1852, and following the extensive repairs 
to the church, made in 1872, Bishop Cyrus D. Foss preached the deflica- 
tion sermon. The church celebrated the centennial of its existence in the 
fall of 1904, at which time many of the former pastors were present to 
participate in the services, when Bishop Foss was again present. 

A long list of worth}- men have served this church as pastors. Rev. 
P. X. Chase, Ph.D., is at present in charge; M. D. Stevens, superintend- 
ent of the Sunday school; Miss Alice Turfler, president of the Epworth 
league. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Chester was organized in the 
year 1837, and for some time used the academy for worship; afterwards 
used the "Ball Room" of Yelverton Inn. In the year 1852 the present 
property was purchased and the church, edifice erected in charge of the 
following trustees : 

C. B. Wood, W. L. Foster, Daniel Conklin, S. R. Banker, John T. 
Johnson, William jMasterson, G. B. jMcCabe. 

In 1867 the church was enlarged and in 1878 the present parsonage 
was purchased. In the year 1879 the sum of $3,000 was expended in 
beautifying the church building. 

St. Paul's Episcopal Church. — The organization of St. Paul's Episcopal 
Mission was effected on May 25, 1897. at which time Samuel Wilkins 
and James A. Parkin were elected trustees. Services were held in 
various places until the summer of 1898. when land was purchased and 
the present church edifice on Main street was erected. The church was 
dedicated by Archdeacon William R. Thomas, D.D.. on August 6, 1898. 
The church was consecrated by Bishop Henry Cadman Potter on July 
25, 1899. Prior to this, the usual organization of the Episcopal Church 
was effected. Mr. Samuel \\'ilkin and R. W. Chamberlain, wardens, 
were elected. J. A. Parkin, E. T. Jackson and W. F. Depcw, vestrymen. 
Articles of incorporation were filed on February 27, 1899. 

The clergyman. Rev. J. Holmes McGuinness, D.D.. at this time was 
elected. 



i6o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

St. John's Africa]i Union Chapel. — This church was organized on 
June 22, 1904, under the auspices of the African Union First Colored 
Methodist Protestant Church in America and Canada, with five members 
and Rev. Edward Nicholas as pastor. The church and Sunday School 
has at present a total membership of eighty-eight. 

Rev. Mr. Nicholas was assigned to this field of labor by the ninetieth 
annual conference of the above named denomination, held at the mother 
church in Wilmington, Delaware County, May 18, 1904. 

The citizens of the place have done much to encourage this well begun 
work. 

ORGANIZATIONS. 

Chester Lodge No. 363, Knights of Pythias, was organized in the year 
1894, and the lodge charter is dated July 25 of that year. The lodge was 
started with a membership of twenty-one, which has increased to forty 
Knights. The lodge conventions are held every Thursday evening at 
Castle Hall, in the Wilkin building. The sums paid to members in sick 
benefits since the organization amount to $1,000. 

Standard Lodge No. 711, F. & A. M., was instituted July 27, 1871, 
and continued to meet in this place, where many of its members resided 
until a few years ago, when a majority decided to change its place of 
meeting to Monroe. 

The Chester National Bank was organized in the year 1845 as a 
State bank, and became a national bank on June 6, 1865. 

The bank occupies the up-to-date quarters in its new building, erected in 
1896, on Main street. The building is of brick, with Quincy granite 
facing, built at a cost of $10,000, its fire and burglar-proof vault contain- 
ing 100 safe-deposit boxes, at an added cost of $8,000. 

Chester free library, organized through the efifort of Chester Library 
and Social Club, was chartered by the University of the State of Ne^v 
York, December 19, 1901. The original trustees were Hiram Tuthill, 
president ; Charles W. Kerner, secretary and treasurer ; Joseph Board, 
Joseph Durland and Roswell W. Chamberlain, trustees. Mrs. Abbie 
Masters is librarian. The library owns about 800 volumes, and in 1907 
circulated 3,543 books. It is supported by voluntary contributions and 
entertainments. The reading room, which is well supplied with periodicals. 




^^-"-^Ao-e^^^^^ ^^^^^W'a^^^?^^;.^^^ 



TOWN Ol- CHESTER. i6i 

and the library, are open to the pubHc on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 
evening's and Saturday afternoons. 

The Young Men's Christian Association was organized March i, 1907, 
witli no members. The members occupy the rooms in the Lawrence 
building. The society started in a very flourishing condition. 

There have been various organizations from time to time in Chester to 
advance its interests. The Board of Trade was organized October i, 
1900, with Frank Durland, president; W. A. Lawrence, vice-president; 
Charles W. Kerner, secretary; Hiram Tuthill, treasurer. Directors, Jo- 
seph Board, William Osborne, George Vail, G. M. Roe. 

The Board of Trade represents the spirit that has eflfected co-operation 
in many ways for advancing the interests of the town. Among them are 
the incorporation of our village and the securing of the water supply 
from Walton Lake, and the Telford streets. At present the officers are 
looking forward to the development of the suburban idea on the beautiful 
site that our village affords, and will welcome desirable manufacturing 
interests. 

From a small beginning in the year 1874, the manufacture of Xeuf- 
chatcl and square cream cheese has grown until at the present time the 
Lawrence & Son's cheese factory is using over 300 cans or 12.000 quarts 
of milk daily, employing a daily average of twenty-five men. This factory, 
consuming such a large amount of milk, together with Borden's large re- 
ceiving station, with a receiving average of 100 cans daily, proves the 
high productiveness of the land in this section. 

The Sugar ]\Iilk factory is located adjoining this cheese plant for the 
manufacture of milk sugar. 

This sugar is made from the whey, a by-product delivered by the cheese 
factory. 

MILITARY. 

The military record of Chester is a worthy one. Quite a number of 
Chester residents made up a company during the Revolutionary War. 
under Colonel Allison, and were attached to the Goshen regiment. 

In the second war with England there was a representation of hardy 
men of this town to endure the hardships of the war. Some of them 
survived until the year 1880. 

During the general training days that followed the second war with 



i62 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

England, Captain John Yelverton, whose sword is still prized as a relic 
of those days of patriotic zeal, led the men of the town to Durland's 
Square, where the volunteer militia were inspected. 

During the Civil War nearly 200 men represented this town in de- 
fending the Union. Many of them suffered upon the battlefield A few 
citizens from the young men of the town enlisted in the Spanish Ameri- 
can War. 

SUGAR LOAF. 

Sugar Loaf is one of the oldest communities of Orange County and 
as a trading center was established shortly after the settlement of Goshen. 

It is one of the villages of Chester township to which we may look with 
interest in these early times. It was named by these pioneer settlers 
from the conelike mountain which towers above the quiet village to an 
elevation of 1,226 feet above sea level. The mountain, which consists 
mostly of greywack slate, resembles in appearance, as viewed from the 
village, a loaf of sugar, such as was used in the homes of the early set- 
tlers before the day of granulated sugar as an article of commerce. This 
sublime eminence, the highest in the county, affords from its summit 
one of the most commanding views in the county. This view is best 
secured by entering the field near George H. Mapes's place on the road 
to Sugar Loaf Valley and walking, as it were, from the tail to the head 
of the lion-like mountain, for this is the shape of the mountain as viewed 
from Chester depot. 

N. P. Willis, the American poet and literary genius, who loved old 
Orange County's hills from Butler Hill on the Hudson, which he re- 
named Storm King, to Adam and Eve in the drowned lands, speaks of 
Sugar Loaf Mountain when viewed from the Chester Hills as being 
like a crouching lion ready to spring upon its prey. 

The earliest record of inhabitants includes Hugh Dobbin, who lived 
near Sugar Loaf Mountain in 1738. Mr. Perry lived near the pond, 
which bore his name and later was called Wickham Pond. This was 
prior to the middle of the eighteenth century, when Clinton, the surveyor, 
marked the Cheesecock claim line, which extended from the base of 
Goose Pond Mountain to Bellevale and thence to the Jersey line. 

Stephen W. Perry, who lived in the Sugar Loaf Valley a century ago, 




Fred. B. Seely. 



TOWN OF CHESTER. 163 

was probably related to the Ferry with whom the surveyors stopped in 
those Colonial days when the Indians still lived m the mountains and 
the surveyors were accustomed to use :he Indian wigwams for shelter 
during their journey, blazing the trees on the Cheesecock line through 
the trackless forest. 

Nathaniel Knapp lived for a time on the Levi Gecr place, and a head- 
stone with the date 1804, the initials N. K., aged sixty-four years, marks 
the place of his burial. For some sentimental reason he was buried 
under a great oak on the farm upon wdiich Hugh Dobbin probably lived 
in the year 1738. According to tradition the old log house of this early 
pioneer was at the curve of the road near the entrance to the meadow. 
Among other men that have been prominent about Sugar Loaf were 
Henry Wisner, Horace Ketchum, Squire James Hallock, Jesse H. Knapp, 
\'incent Wood, who lived on the Asa Dolson farm, and John Holbert, 
born 1773, who lived on the farm now occupied by his grandson, Samuel 
Holbert. 

Tl:e Knapp family came from Connecticut, and settled on three differ- 
ent farms. Some of the family emigrated later through a trackless forest 
to the Butternut Creek in Otsego County. 

The Nicholas Demerest family, of Chester, descended from James 
Demerest's family, who came from Bergen County, New Jersey, and 
settled on the ridge near Sugar Loaf, occupying a farm of five hundred 
acres. John Bigger is mentioned by John Wood, the assessor, in 1775, 
as a taxpayer, together with David Rumsey, Samuel Wickham. Jacobus 
I'.ertholf and 15arnabas Horton. 

In Sugar Loaf \'alley. east of the mountain, John King settled soon 
after his marriage in 1784, upon a farm of two hundred acres. Among 
his neighbors were Cornelius Board and George Davis. Thomas Fitz- 
gerald lived near the line of the town of Warwick. More recently in the 
community life of Sugar Loaf the following men may be mentioned: 
Joseph Cooper. Crinis Laroe, David Dyer, Lewis Rhodes, Jesse Wood, 
John D. Conklin. John Bertholf. Silas Rose. David W. Stevens. Charles 
i'itzgerald anfl Flisha Stevens. 

Miss Martha OdcU. of Chester, now ninety-four years of age. re- 
members the visits of "I'rank Forrester" and his companion. "Tom 
Draw." passing through the village and over the hills to the valley and 
beyond for game and fish. 



i64 THE COUxNTY OF ORANGE. 

The school of Sugar Loaf village in the past century has educated 
many bright boys and girls. The old school-house stood on the road 
that leads from the village to the northwest. The house was on the west- 
erly side of the road. Reeder Feagles and Lieutenant Wood were among 
the teachers in the early part of the nineteenth century. 

The fact that men with patriotic zeal have been identified with Sugar 
Loaf may be summarized by the statement that in the home of Mrs. H. 
C. Baker are mementoes of her husband's service in the Civil War, Jesse 
H. Knapp, who was an officer in the second war with England, and Caleb 
Knapp, who served in the American Revolution. 

The Committee of Safety during the Revolutionary War included 
other patriots like Jacobus and Gillion Bertholf, David Rumsey, father 
of Royal Rum_sey, and Captain Henry Wisner. Jacob, John and Josiah 
Feagles were patriotic citizens of this section during these times. 

The interesting story is told of Hugh Dobbin, the pioneer of Sugar 
Loaf, that during the Revolution he was exempt from service, but pointed 
with pride to the fact that in 1757, in the struggle with the French and 
Indians, he assisted the Government by pasturing one hundred and fifteen 
horses belonging to Captain John Wisner's company. 

We cannot turn from the story of this section without alluding to the 
loss of one of its interesting objects, now only a tradition. Mr. Thomas 
Burt, of Warwick, at the age of eighty-seven, remember the time when on 
the side of Sugar Loaf Mountain there was an eminence upon which was 
the profile of a man with broad shoulders, narrow neck and enlarged head 
with hat on. This was called the "Old Giant," and near it was a fissure 
in the rock called the "Giant's Cellar." Tradition says that Claudius 
Smith, after his depredations through the county, hid in this cleft of the 
rock. 




George E. Brink. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 165 

CHAi'TLR XIIL 

TOWX OF CORNWALL. 

Bv E. M. V. McClean. 

THE first view of Cornwall is not attractive. Two rugged hills rise 
before us, their sides not eveii clothed with virgin soil, for the 
loose soil sends down sand and boulders to the street below. They 
are separated by a rocky ravine, at the bottom of which runs a brook, 
scarcely visible in summer's drought, but fed in the spring by the melting 
snow from the hills, becomes a torrent that sweeps away bridges and roads 
that form its banks. A narrow highway has been cut at the base of each 
hill, but merges into one road just where the stream is spanned by a pretty 
stone bridge. 

The landing itself is simply a business place without any pretense of 
beauty. Nathan Clark's store stands as it did in 1824. Some small houses 
shelter a few families, storehouses line the docks. Taft, Howell & Com- 
pany's mill has only the attractiveness of utility if we except the emerald 
velvet robe of Ampelopsis, which almost covers the entire front. The 
West Shore depot is a more modern structure and past this the black rails 
sweep north and south. 

We wmU take the right hand road past the post-office, presided over by 
Miss Young, and ascend a rather steep hill. After we leave the little bridge 
we are shut out from the sight of civilization. At our right rises an al- 
most perpendicular hill darkly clothed in fir, pine and hemlock. On the 
left is a substantial hand rail protecting us from the rock\' gorge below. It 
is cool and dark here and we will stay long enough to review a little of 
Cornwall's early history. 

As the Half Moon anchored in the broad bay .<^outh of Newburgh, the 
swift canoes of the Indians shot out from the shore to investigate what 
kind of a bird their white winged visitors might be. They were of the 
tribe Warwaronecks. afterwards known as the Murderer's Kill Indians. 

On April 15, 1685. Governor Dongan purchased the tract claimed by 
this tribe, extending from ^[urdercr's Creek to Stony Point, the river 
forming the eastern boundary. A year previous to this a Scotchman 



i66 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

named McGregorie had brought his own and several famihes to settle 
here. A document is extant in which Margaret McGregorie states : 

"They were not only the tirst Christians that had settled thereon but 
also peaceably and quietly and enjoyed their land during the term of their 
natural lives." 

McGregorie was placed in command of the militia and marched with 
his men to fight the Indians. Before he left he was assured by Governor 
Dongan the patent for his land should be issued. It never was. He was 
killed in 1691 and during the trouble with the Leisler government and that 
of Governor Fletcher his property was sold to Captain Evans. After a 
great deal of trouble in getting back to his family, who held it until 1727, 
it was sold to Thomas Ellison. 

There is no record of the names of any of his family after his death 
except his and that of his wife's brother Tosusk, the Laird of Minne- 
vard. The boundaries of this tract were very indefinite until in 1799 
when Monroe and Blooming Grove were erected into separate towns. 
Buttermilk Falls still formed part of our territory, but the mountain made 
business intercourse so very inconvenient that in 1872 a petition was 
granted by the Legislature severing this connection, the new village 
taking the name of Highland Falls. 

FREIGHTING. 

There were still many hundred acres and those were divided into large 
farms where cattle, horses and small stock were raised in great quantities. 
Orange County milk and butter had become famous and Cornwall con- 
tributed her full share. Not only the products of our own neighborhood 
but those of the other counties reached New York by the way of Corn- 
wall landing. A friend recently gone from us, Miss Maria Conser, who 
was a child at that time, gives the following graphic description : "How 
we children liked to stop on our way to the old schoolhouse to watch the 
loaded wagons drawn by three mules abreast lumbering over the rough 
roads. We were frightened when we met the droves of cattle. The toss- 
ing of their wild horns sent us scrambling upon the stone wall until they 
had passed. Hours would elapse while tubs of butter, forests of hoop- 
poles, cows, calves, sheep and lambs were placed on board of the night 
boat. The passengers went to their berths but alas, for their hope of 




Charles Ketcham. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 167 

rest; the lowing of cattle, the bleating of lambs and the noise of the crew 
forbade sleep. About midnight a lull would come ; the boat gliding 
through the softly murmuring water made sleep possible." 

In 1805 Isaac Tobias constructed a dock at New Windsor where he 
built the sloop Hector and sailed it from the landing. A few years later 
Captain Nathaniel Ketchum ran the Rcvcui^c between here and the city. 
In 1828 the Experiment, the first steamboat that sailed from the landing, 
was built by Silas Corwin of New Windsor and commanded by Captain 
Isaac \'anduzer. She had four smokestacks and was but little more 
speedy than the sloops. After a few years she was sold to Weeks & 
Griffin who in turn disposed of her to Bertholf & Co. She was finally con- 
verted into a barge. Two others, the Wave and General Jackson, w-ere put 
on. and in 1855 Captain Joseph Ketchum and Henry M. Clark purchased 
the Orange County and ran her between here and New York. The build- 
ing of the Erie Railroad to Piermont sent a large part of the freight by 
that route and we have never recovered our lost prestige. But just about 
this time a new industry sjjrang u]) which ])artially made up for the 
freight that had been carried elsewhere. The land was found to be 
especially adapted to the raising of small fruit.s — the Hudson River Ant- 
werp raspberries and strawberries being the most successful, and thou- 
sands were shipped every night during the fruit season. This too fell off 
when it was discovered that we had a home market for all we could raise. 
This was due to the personality of one man. N. P. Willis. 

IDLEWILD. 

Those who visit Idlewild today and note the miles of gravel walk 
sweeping where the vista that opens is most beautiful: the rare trees 
brought from many lands.— the acres of lawn, smooth as velvet— the 
profusion of fiowers that meets one at every turn, -the luxurious mansion 
crowned to its eaves with blossoms and vines, can hardly realize the wild 
graufleur of the scene that appealed to the poet soul of N. P. Wdlis, and 
drew from the owner, Mr. Daniel Ward, the question, "What do you want 
with such an idle wild?" 

An unbroken woodland lying about the bank of the river, whose ro- 
mantic beauty was as yet unappreciated ; bisected by a dark ravine at the 
bottom of which ran a brook only revealed by the music of its waters an I 



i68 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

thrown into spray biy huge boulders obstructing its course. Pines, hem- 
locks and forest trees centuries old sprang towards the sunlight but at 
their base grew inpenetrable underbrush. 

The name has become a household word not only among our own peo- 
ple, but in the lands beyond the sea, and thousands of readers followed 
with delight every step that was taken to change the scene from barbarism 
to civilization. "A letter from Idlewild" was published every week in 
the Home Journal of which Willis and George P. Morris were editors. 

While still a boy in college the publication of his Scriptural poems at- 
tracted much attention. These were followed by ''Pencilings by the 
Way," a brilliant record of a trip through Europe. 

In 185 1 he was sent to Cornwall by his physician in hopes of prolong- 
ing his life. He was threatened with consumption and had already been 
warned by the danger signal of several hemorrhages. The medicine pre- 
scribed was rest, nourishment and every hour possible spent out of doors. 
He boarded with a gentle Quaker lady, Mrs. Southerland, over whose 
home the dove of Peace was brooding. Slowly but sometimes almost im- 
perceptibly came returning strength, but to make it permanent he must 
remain here and so came the purchase of a home. The Civil War 
brought financial reverses, for a majority of his subscribers were in 
Che South, but he turned again to work in order to recoup some of his 
losses, but his health again broke down and he died on his 60th birthday, 
1867, in the home he loved so well. 

Mr. Willis was twice married — first to a sweet- faced English girl, 
who only lived for a few years. His second wife was Miss Cornelia 
Grinnell, daughter of one of our merchant princes. She sold the estate, 
which passed into the hands of Judge George, a gentleman of culture and 
refined taste, who carried out many of the improvements planned by his 
predecessor. He sold it to the late Mr. Courtney, who was then Presi- 
dent of the West Shore Railroad. After Mr. Courtney's death it passed 
into the hands of Mr. Charles Curie, the present owner. 

In Mr. Willis's "letters from an invalid," he described the beautiful 
walks and drives in the neighborhood where he spent his days and the 
description brought summer visitors seeking for board. Every room was 
occupied and hundreds went away for lack of accommodation. The next 
season saw new houses built and others were enlarged, and there seemed 
no limit to our prosperity. A paper published here in 1874 contained the 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 169 

advertisements of twenty-five houses that were pnbhc boarding-houses, be- 
sides all that were accommodated in private families. Many who came as 
visitors purchased building sites and erected summer homes. One of these 
was Mr. Harvey, of Brooklyn, who built Homeland, adjoining Idlewild. 
Mr. E. A. ]\Iattheissen secured the next site where Mattheissen Park is 
now. Mr. Solomon, of New York, chose Land's End for his beautiful 
home. Mr. Bellows's residence was on Bayview Avenue. Mr. James 
Stillman and his mother each have a summer cottage hefe. 

I50.\RDIXG- HOUSES. 

Among all the houses opened for guests the Mountain House stood 
first, from the fact of its position twelve hundred feet above tide-water in 
the heart of pine woods, where the visitors found health as well as recrea- 
tion. The buildinor itself was also attractive. In the earlv sixties Dr. 
Champlin, who had been traveling in the East, saw some marvelous cures 
performed on consumptive patients by the use of kourmis. 

Property on the mountain was at this time nearly all held by two 
families — John Losee Wood and Christian \'ought ; so when the doctor 
erected two houses as a samtarium, no one objected. The architecture 
was oriental — windows and doors were surmounted by round arches, 
and the second "Story was built over the broad piazza which surrounded it 
on three sides. A number of goats were installed in what is now the 
Chalet across the road, and two physicians. Doctors Pellatier and Boyd, 
had charge of the houses, but the enterprise was a failure and it became a 
boarding-house, numbering among its patrons some of the most 'exclu- 
sive families of New York and Philadelphia. 

Many of the wealthier guests who saw that there was a possibility of 
forming a colony similar to that of Tuxedo, joined in a syndicate to 
purchase land, to lay out roads and develop its resources. Later it was 
found desirable to have a place of meeting for themselves, and the club- 
house was built. It was incorporated under the title of the Deer Hill 
Company in 1890. Besides being able to accommodate many guests cot- 
tages were built in the grounds and the Mountain House found its days 
of prosperity gone. Mr. J. W. Meagher surrendered his lease and fire 
destroyed two-thirds of the building, when it passed into the hands of 
Mr. James Stillman. One of the next houses in point of numbers was 



I70 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. James G. Roe's. It has sheltered three hundred guests. The Ehner, 
had nearly two hundred ; the Smith was almost the length of a city block. 
The Wiley House had ninety feet of broad piazzas. Grand View, owned 
by Mrs. Alott, is the only one at present that is still in the business. 
There were many others, and nearly every private family was willing to 
accommodate city guests. Recently the club has surrendered its charter^ 
and it has passed into private hands. 

ROUND TOP. 

While we are in the mountain we will stand for a few minutes on 
Round Top, the home of the late Miss Hussey. Near us is a small chalet, 
consisting of three rooms with a cedar rail portico in front. Here for 
sixty years a woman, refined, cultured, and of marked literary ability, 
dwelt alone. There came a break in her seclusion, when in 1861 she 
entered the army as a nurse, where she remained until the close of the 
war. She was a fine raconteur, and many a. story of those days enter- 
tained her visitors, and she had many, for she and her romantic home 
attracted nearly everyone who came to Cornwall. She kept a visitors' 
book, and there were 5,000 names in it before mine. In 1876 she, with 
two othejc- ladies. Miss McClean and Miss Hayes, edited the first news- 
paper printed in the town, but it was not a success after the first year, 
when she abandoned it. She received a pension from the Government, 
and died about four years ago. 

E. p. ROE. 

As we have been dealing with personal history, a modest residence with 
large grounds suggests another name, that of E. P. Roe, the novelist. 
His childhood was passed in Moodna and the home and surrounding 
scenery in the background of the picture drawn in "Nature's Serial Story." 
He studied in Williams College and then entered a theological seminary, 
but in 1862 resigned to become chaplain in the Harris Light Cavalry. He 
participated in several engagements, but on being appointed Hospital 
Chaplain, was granted a furlough, came home and was married to Miss 
Sands, who accompanied him back to the seat of war. He retained his 
position until the close of hostilities, when he took charge of the Presby- 



TOWN UF CORNWALL. jji 

teriaii Church at lli<^^hlaiul l-"alls. He visited Chicago after the fire, and 
tliat suggested the plot of "Barriers Uurned Away." The success of 
this was phenomenal, several editions following in quick succession. 
Feeling he could reach a larger congregation by his pen than by his voice, 
he resigned his charge and came to Cornwall. His mornings were spent 
in his garden, where his success in fruit raising equalled that in literary 
work. The afternoons in his study resulted in volume after volume being 
given to the public in quick succession. His books sold well and his 
royalties were large, but through the misfortunes of others he became 
financially embarrassed and sold the royalties of his then published 
novels for $30,000. He still found ready sale for all he produced, which 
soon enabled him to liquidate his obligation, and the "children of his 
fancy were his own again." But the strain told on him, and in 1887 he 
went to Santa Barbara for rest and recuperation. There he wrote "The 
Earth Trembled," a story of the Charleston earthquake. He returned 
in 1887 and began his last work, "Miss Lou," which was never finished. 
In August, 1888, he was reading aloud in his library, when he was seized 
with sharp pains in his heart. Two physicians were summoned, but 
failed to give relief and half an hour after his first attack, E. P. Roe 
was no more. After his death several gentlemen, among others Mr. 
Thomas Taft, Mr. \'alentine and the Rev. Lyman Abbott, consulted as 
to what shape a permanent memorial to him would take. A Roe Me- 
morial Park was decided upon, the location being near his home on the 
side of Round Top, bounded by the Boulevard. It consists of a little 
more than two acres and is heavily wooded. Xone of the trees have been 
disturbed, only the underbrush cleared up and paths made through the 
grounds. At the top is a large boulder and on top of this was placed a 
bronze tablet, on which was engraved two branches of chestnuts with 
their foliage and burrs, some open. Above this is inscribed: "In Memory 
of Edward Payson Roe," and under this, "Near to Nature's Heart." 
The tablet was unveiled on May 30. 1804. with very impressive cere- 
monies and was presented to the village. 

COLONEL DfXCAX. 

Another name very dear to Cornwall. Init one almost forgotten by the 
present generation, was that of Colonel James Duncan. He \\as born 



172 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

at Cold Springs, but his parents moved here when he was a small boy, 
and settled on a farm a little out of the village. He graduated from 
West Point in 1835, and was appointed Lieutenant of the Fourth Cavalry. 
In 1838 he perfected an arm of the service called "The flying artillery," 
and this first brought him into notice. During the Mexican War he rose 
from the rank of Lieutenant to that of Colonel. He received the ap- 
pointment of Inspector General of the United States Army, and during 
one of his visitations at Mobile he contracted the yellow fever and died 
there in 1849. His body was brought on and buried near his home, but 
some years later it was removed to the cemetery at West Point. 

CANTERBURY. 

That part of the town known as Canterbury was probably the first 
portion settled. Old records give names of path masters who resided here 
previous to the Revolutionary War, but seemed to have left no de- 
scendants. As far back as 1820 we have the name of John Chadeayne, 
one of whose sons, Mr. Henry F. Chadeayne, was the father of our pres- 
ent supervisor. The early physicians all located in that end of the town. 
Dr. Tobias was the first one of which we have any record. Dr. Clinton 
came next, and then Dr. Elisha Hedges, dying a young man in 1824. 
The house where he lived was occupied until recently by his daughter. 
His successors were Dr. Heaton and his son-in-law, Dr. Gough, and they 
cared for all the sick in the radius of many miles. But as the population 
increased there was found work for others, and Dr. Beattie came to us 
and died among us in his eightieth year. Dr. Thomas Heaton also lies in 
one of our cemeteries, one of the most beloved and trusted of doctors. He 
was a grandson of the first one of that name. Dr. Hotchkiss represented 
homeopathy, and at his death was succeeded by Dr. Bergen, to be fol- 
lowed by Dr. Chandler of that cult. Beside the latter we have Drs. 
Winter and Bowdish, of the upper village, and Drs. Shirk and Bayard, of 
the lower one, at present with us. 

CHURCHES. 

Presbyterian. — The earliest record of religious worship came from 
Bethlehem, which was at first the name of the church, and then ex- 
tended to the neighborhood. It was Presbyterian in form and ministered 




John Orr. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 173 

to bv tlic Rev. Mr. Challoner, who had charge also in Cornwall, New 
Windsor and Ulooming Grove. The building was erected in 1730. In 
point of seniority it was the third oldest congregation west of the Hudson 
and north of the Highlands. The second incumbent was the Rev. Enos 
Ay res, who was followed by Mr. Close in 1764. He remained for forty 
years, and was chaplain during the Revolutionary War to soldiers .sta- 
tioned in the vicinity. The Rev. Artemus Dean was installed in 1813 and 
served for twenty-nine years. During his pastorate the church that had 
stood for ninety-six years was torn down and replaced by the ])resent edi- 
fice. In 1872 the Rev. Mr. Atwater was appointed. In 1827 the Rev. James 
Thorn, of Canterbury, gathered some members of other churches together 
and, obtaining letters of dismissal from their several organizations, formed 
them into a congregation. A small church was erected, and in 1828 he 
was installed by the Presbytery of the North River as pastor for New 
Windsor and Canterbury. He was succeeded in 1835 by Jonathan Silli- 
man, who remained pastor for twenty-six years. The Rev. Messrs. Baker, 
Eddy and Clarke succeeded each other for short terms, but in 1872 the 
Rev. Lyman Abbott took charge. He labored faithfully for many years, 
and only severed his connection when the call came from Plymouth 
Church. Brooklyn. His i)lace was filled by Mr. Egbert, who proved to be 
a thorcnighly live man, leaving the impress of his personality not only on 
hi> church l)ut tlie whole neighborhood. A call to a larger field took him 
away, and his mantle fell on the Rev. Mr. Beattie, who had been taught 
in that Sunday School. He too gave up and was succeeded by Rev. 
Mr. Allen. 

Coriizcall-ou-Hudson Presbyterian Church. — As early as 1855 some 
families residing in what is now known as Cornwall-on-Hudson, felt 
the need of a church at tliis place. They held their first meeting in the 
school-room of Alfred C. Roe, in the building now occupied by the Gold 
Cure, and "depending on divine aid resolved to erect a house of Wor- 
ship," and one year later the present building was dedicated. There were 
only seventeen members and eight of them belonged to the Roe family. 
Their names w^ere Peter Roe. Mrs. Susan Roe, Alfred C. Roe, Mrs. 
Caroline Roe, James G. Roe and wife. Mrs. Roe Cak'well. Milton Wiley 
and wife, Mrs. Mary Jackson. Miss Amanda .\dams. Mrs. Mary A. 
Clark, Mrs. Rachael Bruen, Phebe Greegs, Mary Johnson, Angeline Clark, 
and John P. Roe. In 1899 there were four survivors, but Mrs. Sarah 



174 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Wiley died that year, Mr. Milton Wiley following three years later. In 
1906 Mrs, Mary Jackson passed away, but was able to be present part 
of the time in the church at the celebration of its fiftieth anniversary. 
Her sister, Miss Amanda Adams, still survives. 

The first elders chosen were Milton Wiley and James G. Roe, James 
O. Adams was elected later. The first stated supply was the Rev. Dr. 
Deyo, who was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Robinson, who died in 1858. 
Dr. Ledoux followed, who resigned when Mr. Teal was appointed. He 
was called to a larger field and the Rev. George P. Noble came. In 
1 891 he dissolved his connection with the church and Mr. Hugh Frasier, 
the present incumbent, was installed. 

The next church in point of age is the plain Quaker meeting house in 
Canterbury. Previous to its erection^ service was held in the house occu- 
pied by David Sands, who was a noted Friend preacher, but as the con- 
gregation grew it was found a place of worship was needed. About 1790 
the present edifice was built and Catherine Sands, a girl of twelve years 
old, carried the nails for the workmen from New Windsor on horseback. 

A division in doctrine caused a separation in the society in 1827. The 
part retaining the buildings was called the orthodox and the seceders 
Hicksites, from a member called Elias Hicks, who had promulgated the 
new belief. These held meetings in private houses for some months, 
when a brick building was erected in the rear of what is now John Chat- 
field's stable. Both Mr. Beach and Mr. Ruttenber mention a coincidence 
in the two buildings. The first marriage in the first house was Catherine 
Sands to Squire Ring, and the first one in the new building was that of 
her son, Robert Ring, nearly forty years later. 

Methodist. — The early Methodists held their meetings in a school- 
house, which stood for many years at the Corners, but in 1830 erected the 
present building on a knoll in Canterbury. It has been almost rebuilt 
and modernized, and now is a very handsome church. The first pastor 
was the Rev. Phineas Rice, who had charge in New Windsor, and 
what is now Vails Gate, Salisbury and Mountainville. In 1863 it became 
self-supporting, and was detached from the other missions, and the Rev. 
J. H. Gregory was appointed by the Conference. It has always since had 
a resident pastor and the present incumbent, Rev. Angelo Ostrander is 
justly popular and has been returned by the unanimous request of the 
congregation three successive terms. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 175 

Episcopal. — Previous to 1858 there was no separate organization of 
the Episcopal Church in Cornwall. Those who could do so drove to 
New Windsor, and those who were unable, joined in the worship with 
other religious bodies. Many of the strangers coming here at that time 
were of that faith, and in conjunction with some of the residents took 
the necessary steps for the incorporation of a parish. On July 17th, 1858, 
a meeting was held and officers were elected to serve until the following 
Easter. Alonzo Alvord and William Bayard were chosen wardens, 
and N. P. Willis, Thos. Cummings, Daniel Birdsal, James Crissey, Nich- 
olas Chatfield, Jr., Francis Barton, Chas. H. Mead and John Chatfield 
were elected vestrymen. A lot was purchased and a contract for the 
building made with ]\Iessrs. Shaw & Sons, of Newburgh, and on May 
loth. 1829, the corner-stone was laid by the Right Rev. Dr. Potter. By 
the 20th of November of the same year it was opened for ilivine service. 
Until 1864, the services were conducted by the resident minister at New 
Windsor, but in November of that year the Rev. John Webster was in- 
stalled, who was succeeded in January. 1866, by the Rev. W. G. French. 
In 1869. the tower and spire was completed, one of our wealthy residents 
who was a vestryman, Mr. Sherwood, contributing $2,000. The ladies' 
auxiliary, an organization that has shown the greatest success in collecting 
funds for church purposes, contributed the clock. Mr. Snowden was the 
next minister, who died in office. The Rev, Mr. Huntington succeeded 
him, and was succeeded by Mr. Cleveling, who gave place to Dr. Page, 
who has charge at present. 

The Catholic. — Previous to 1857 the members of the Catholic Church 
met for service in the home of Mrs. McQuade, in Canterbury, and at 
the corners in what was then known as the Weaver bouse. Three gentle- 
men, John Diffendale, Daniel O. Callahan and John McClean started a 
building fund, each contributing one hundred dollars. Tiie next on the 
list was a non-Catholic. Mr. Henry F. Chadeayne with fifty dollars. Mr. 
Stephen Gillis gave 50,000 bricks from his yard. But a few weeks elapsed 
before there was money enough to justify their purpose of building a 
church, and a lot was purchased at the top of River avenue, which com- 
manded a magnificent view of mountains and river. The building was 
erected by Messrs. Little Brothers & Co.. of Newburgh, and would seat 
about 150. About twenty families represented the entire congregation. 
But only a few years elapsed when it was found wholly inadequate to 



176 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

accommodate the resident population, and the summer visitors would have 
filled one three times as large. It was supplied from St. Patrick's, New- 
burgh, a priest driving down on Sunday morning, and returning after 
service. After A. E. Mattheissen and the Harvey and Sherwood families 
settled here, steps were taken to build a larger edifice. The present lot was 
purchased for $i,ooo and nearly $2,000 more was in the savings bank, 
when an application was made for a resident clergyman, and in 1870 
Father Ambrose Keogh was sent by the Archbishop of New York. 
His health was very delicate, and at first it seemed a task beyond his 
strength to attempt to erect a church, but the present fine building is a 
monument of his perseverance and energy. The corner-stone was laid in 
1871 by Bishop McQuade, of Rochester, and the following year services 
were held in the basement. A handsome rectory was built and furnished 
at the same time. It was connected with a mission at Washingtonville. 
After five years' service Father Keogh was transferred to Tuckahoe, and 
was succeeded by Father Mackin. There was a mortgage of $13,000 on 
the property and Cornwall prosperity had begun to wane, and the 
churches were among the first to feel it. Meeting the annual interest and 
current expenses were nearly all that was attempted at that time, with the 
exception of the purchase of a cemetery for $2,000. At the end of five 
years Father Ward succeeded to the pastorate, and immediately took steps 
to complete the upper part. This he did, at a cost of about $8,000, without 
increasing the mortgage. He was succeeded by Father Gordon, who paid 
$8,000 of the debt during the five years of his incumbency. His promo- 
tion to a large city parish was followed by the Rev. Phillip Ahearn, who 
was in turn succeeded by the Rev. James Curry. A heating plant, electric 
light and village water were installed at this time into both church and rec- 
tory. Two handsome side altars were built with three costly statues. In 
1901 he was appointed to St. James's Parish, New York, and was suc- 
ceeded by the Rev. James S. Fenton. Under his management the re- 
mainder of the mortgage has been paid and plans drawn for a parochial 
school to be erected on the grounds in the rear of the church. A large 
Sunday school has always been an important part of the work. In 1907 
Father Fenton went abroad for his health, and the Rev. Father Brosan 
has charge. 

FIRE PROTECTION. 

As early as 1830 means were taken for fire protection in Canterbury. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 177 

and each man who contributed $2.50 could become a member. The names 
of the first trustees were Nathan Westcott, Elias Hand, W. T. Cocks, 
Geo. Marriott and John AL Gough. Soon others joined it, and it was 
created a body corporate under the name of the Canterbury Fire Com- 
pany. A hand engine was purchased at an expense of $125. About 1836 
a second-hand suction engine was purchased in New York, but as the 
population increased they realized how important it would be to check any 
serious conflagration, so in October, 1869, a meeting of property owners 
was held, which made arrangements for purchasing a lot and engine 
house. A committee was appointed who finally bought the premises 
where Hunter & McClean had their market for $2,000. A new engine 
was bought and called Highland Engine No. i. During 1905 a very 
tasteful brick building costing $5,000 was erected. There were sixty 
members in good standing and many applications for membership when 
a vacancy occurs. The same year, 1869, that the engine was purchased in 
Canterbury, a similar project was started at the Corners, and a subscrip- 
tion paper was sent out, but failed to get any definite pledges, each person 
approached being unwilling to be the first to sign. A public meeting was 
called, and thirty-five young men responded, each promising to give five 
dollars. In a few days nearly $700 was secured, and Messrs. Titus, Wiley 
and John jNIcClean went to New York to see what could be obtained 
for their money. Steamers had been introduced into the New York and 
Brooklyn districts, so they found an article that suited them in Engine 
Goodwill 4 of Brooklyn and it was bought and shipped on the Orange 
County for Cornwall. They had no house, but procured the use of Cars- 
weli's barn. A company had been organized with Wm. J. Quigley, 
foreman, John K. Oliver, assistant and John AlcClean, Jr., secretary. 
A charter was procured in 1870, March 30th, in which A. E. Mattheissen, 
Stephen Gillis. Hamilton Salmon, David Clark, Jas. Hitchcock and E. H. 
Champlin, constituting themselves a body corporate, under the name of 
the Storm King Engine No. 2. Another subscription was solicited, which 
met with such a generous response that a lot was purchased and a two- 
story building erected on Duncan avenue. The dues of members supple- 
mented by entertainments, furnished their rooms and met their expenses, 
but in 1900 they surrendered their charter to the village corporation 
and were henceforth a public charge. A lot was bought on Main street 
and a handsome building costing $6,000 was erected. They have a recep- 



178 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

tion room, pool room, and public meeting room, and a large space down 
stairs for their engine house. Their charter allows only sixty members, 
and there are always candidates waiting for any vacancy. A company 
was organized at the Landing and some hundred feet of hose purchased, 
but it soon disbanded. Last year a hose company was formed on the 
heights for fire protection. 

SCHOOLS. 

Public schools were established soon after the Revolutionary War, and 
each village had its schoolhouse and teacher, for at least the winter 
months, and as the instruction was confined to the three R's several pri- 
vate schools were started, but were only moderately successful. The 
earliest of these was that of Madame Rutkai, the sister of the famous 
Hungarian, Louis Kossuth. ]\Ir. Alfred Roe taught one in Canterbury 
for a time and in the spring of 1853 purchased the Fowler Griggs prop- 
erty, where he conducted a boarding and day school for young men. It 
was very successful, but in 1863 he gave it up, entered the ministry 
and joined the army as the chaplain of the Eighty-third Volunteers. In 
1877 he again came to Cornwall and opened a school for young ladies, 
following the Harvard standard, but the patronage did not warrant its 
continuance and it was closed in the third year. Dr. Ledoux succeeded in 
founding a permanent institution. While he was pastor of the Presbyterian 
Church, he was taken very sick with typhoid fever, and at times was deliri- 
ous, and then spoke only French, it being his native language. Mr. Mc- 
Creery, the New York merchant, who was boarding in the neighborhood, 
was looking for a school for his sons, and after the Doctor's recovery ar- 
ranged with him to receive his boys into his family. He soon had as many 
as he could teach, resigned his living, purchased a tract of land on the 
Heights, and began a most successful career. He sold out to Mr. Cobb, 
who after a few years sold in turn to the present proprietor. Rev. Charles 
Stone. 

Down to 1869 our public school was taught just long enough every 
year to obtain the public money, and then some one would continue it 
as a private enterprise for three or four months. But in that year, some 
of our summer residents, including E. A. Mattheissen, Chas. Bellows, 
Mr. Solomon, Stephen C. Gillis, James Dunn, Mr. Hitchcock, James 
Couser, John McKibben and Dr. Vail, formed a board of education. A 




Thomas Tafl. 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. 179 

lot was purchased from ]\Ir. Hitchcock near the Corners, and a substan- 
tial building erected. The school was opened on j\Iay 24th, 1869, with 
Mr. Williamson as principal, Miss McClean and Miss Frances Marvel as 
assistants. There were then about (So pupils. In 1896 it was found an 
addition was needed and a large building was erected across the front at 
a cost of $8,000. There are fourteen teachers in the building now, and 
one in the annex on the Heights, and tl;e census of this }ear shows 500 
children of school age. The training school under Mr. Aldrich, turns 
out wonderful work for boys and girls, and the sewing class in charge 
of Miss Murray, which has only been established a year, shows how little 
hands can be trained. The present board of education consists of Mr. 
Townsend D, Wood, president: Mr. P. Bevins, J. J. Hall, Louis A'elton, 
Carlos H. Stone, George Mailler, Jas. H. Ward, John Noe, and Harris 
Cox. 

VILLAGE OF CORXWALL-OX-HUDSON. 

The village of Cornwall-on-Hudson was incorporated in ^iarch, 1885, 
the first officers being : Thos. Taft, president ; trustees : Wm. Fogarty, 
Charles W. Clark and Oren Cobb; treasurer, H. N. Clark; collector, 
Charles E. Cocks, and clerk, Daniel E. Pope. 

In 1 891 an excise board was elected, that refused to grant licenses, and 
since then the town has remained dry. Two reservoirs were built on the 
mountain, and the pure spring water carried through the town. The out- 
lay was $67,000, but at present the water rents defray all expenses for 
interest. In 1906 a proposition was made to unitt Uie two villages of 
Canterbury and Cornwall, but was defeated. The present board of trus- 
tees are : John Clarkson, president ; Louis Velton, Charles Smith, Norman 
Chatfield and Ralph Quackenbush ; clerk, James H. W'ard ; collector, 
John Noe. 

CANTERBURY SCHOOLS. 

A small building on one of the side roads was used for many years, 
after it was evident the days of its usefulness as a schoolhouse was over. 
In 1905 the people voted to raise $30,000 for a new schoolhouse. A lot 
on Willow avenue was purchased, and a building, complete in all modern 
appliances has been the result. There are twelve teachers under a most 



i8o - THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

efficient principal, Mr, Woodworth. Both this and the one at the Corners, 
are high schools under the regents. 

VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY. 

The Village Improvement Society was organized in 1900, when a public 
meeting was called in Mattheissen Hall. Dr. Harrison was chairman, 
and introduced the Rev. Lyman Abbott, who explained the object of the 
association, which was that each one should pledge themselves to take 
care of their premises, and use their influence to abate anything that 
would detract from the beauty and order of the village. Nearly every- 
one present agreed to become a member. The following day a meeting 
was held and officers elected. Mrs. Lyman Abbott was chosen president ; 
Mrs. Seaman, first vice-president; Mrs. Hunter, second vice-presi- 
dent; Mrs. Furey, secretary; Miss Laura Currie, corresponding secre- 
tary, and Mrs. Dr. Harrison, treasurer. A handsome loving cup was 
purchased to be given to the person who, in the estimation of the judges, 
should show the best kept garden for the year. Anyone who should win 
it three years in succession would own it. Mrs. John Noe held it the 
first year, Mrs. Milton Couser the second, but the three following sea- 
sons it was held by Mrs. John Noe, who then became its permanent 
possessor. Almost the first work done by the society was offering ten 
cents a hundred for the nests of the tent worm. Seventy-two thousand 
were brought in by the school children, with the result that while the 
neighboring villages lost hundreds of trees the place was free from the 
pests. Trash cans were placed in different parts of the village, and thir- 
teen hundred posters were removed from trees, fences and telegraph poles. 

Many friends have made generous donations ; among others Mr. Weeks 
who, during the past four years, has offered $50 each year as door-yard 
prizes. A boys' horticultural club has been formed, land rented and a por- 
tion assigned to each boy who owns all he raises. The two most successful 
receive prizes. Enough money has been subscribed to meet the ex- 
penses of this work for five years. The second year of the organization, 
it lost by death the efficient treasurer, Mrs. Dr. Harrison, and last sum- 
mer the loved president, Mrs. Lyman Abbott, died beyond the ocean 
and sleeps in a little German graveyard. The present officers are : Mrs. 
Ernest Abbott, president; Miss Cocks, vice-president; Mrs. Seaman, sec- 



TOWN OF CORNWALL. i8i 

ond vice-president; Mrs. Fleming', secretary; Miss Josephine Youngs, 
treasurer, and Miss E. M. V, ]\IcClean, corresponding secretary. 

PAPERS. 

In 1877 ]\Ir. John Lee, author of stories of the Fludson, started the 
Cornwall Mirror, but he died within the year. He was succeeded by Mr. 
Snelling, who changed the name to the Cornwall Reflector. Mr. Pendell 
succeeded him as editor, when the title was changed to Cornwall Local, 
the name which it retained when it passed into the hands of the present 
proprietor, Mr. Goodenough. Three or four efforts have been made to 
run a second village paper, but they have all proved a failure. Mr. 
Morehouse started the Courier, which passed into the hands of Creswell 
McLaughlin* but it came to grief. It was resuscitated in 1905, but only 
lived a year. 

INDUSTRIES. 

With the introduction of the mountain water into the village, it was 
hoped that with the fine freighting facilities, manufacturers might be 
induced to settle here, but such has not been the case. Several applica- 
tions have been received from outsiders, but when negotiations reached a 
certain point, they have been quietly withdrawn, and it has been surmised 
that some of the wealthier neighbors object to the class such work would 
bring among them. The stream known as Murderer's Creek, and later on 
as the Moodna, at one time had several factories along its banks. The 
late John Orr's flour mill is still in business, and about a mile from Can- 
terbury is a settlement known as Firthcliff. In 1869 Mr. Broadhead had 
a large woolen mill there which after a few years, passed into the hands 
of an English carpet company. These brought many of their skilled 
employees with them, and they in turn induced friends and neighbors to 
come out, so that one corner of the town is an English village. The 
home works are in England, but the proj)rictors fref|uently cross the 
Atlantic to visit their factory here. Still farther down the stream are the 
mills of John Orr, at a railroad station that bears his name. A piano fac- 
tory, owned by John E. Ryder has disappeared, and as the brook nears 
the Hudson, it passes through a valley which was once filled with homes 
of the work people employed in the \^alley Forge paper mill, owned by 



i82 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Carson & Ide, and the Leonard linen mill. The latter stopped during the 
war, but the former under different owners produced some material, 
until a freshet tore away bridge, dam and race and forced the stream into 
another channel that left the building practically without water. 

VOLUNTEERS. 

Mr. Ruttenber gives a list of 172 volunteers who went from here dur- 
ing the Civil War, but he has omitted three names, Frederick Lamb, Wm. 
Couser and George Chatfield. Emslie Post contains the names of some of 
the surviving on its roster, and on Memorial Day they decorate eighty 
graves of comrades who have passed over to the great majority. But 
there are others who sleep on Southern battlefields, and still others who 
passed from the weary anguish of the hospitals to the "low green tent, 
whose curtain never outward swings." Captain Thomas Taft is probably 
the youngest surviving veteran ; and among the revered names of those 
"who came not back" stand Captain Silliman, Major Cromwell and 
William Emslie, who died in Andersonville. Through the efforts of Mr. 
Charles Curie, of Idlewild, a soldiers' monument has been erected in the 
village. 

NEW YORK MILITARY ACADEMY. 

One of the institutions of Cornwall is the New York Military Aca- 
demy. In the '70s it was a large boarding house, capable of accommo- 
dating two hundred guests. The grounds cover a large plateau, skirting 
a ravine, and was called Glen Ridge. It was owned by Mr. James G. Roe, 
brother of the novelist, who when the boarding business failed in Corn- 
wall, sold to Colonel Wright, who opened a boys' school. He was suc- 
ceeded by Mr. Jones, who has enlarged the already capacious buildings. 
There are always over 100 young men and boys in the institution, and 
a large corps of capable teachers. The discipline is secured more by re- 
wards than punishments. The pupils, when visiting the village, are al- 
ways quiet and gentlemanly. Officers from West Point train them in 
military tactics, and it is marvelous what a proficiency they attain in a 
few months. 



TOW'X OI' CRAWFORD. 183 

CHAPTER XIV. 

TOWX (^l- ("R \\\l"( )R1J. 

By J. Erskixi-: Ward. 

TIJJS triani::u!ar townshi]). some eighteen or twenty miles west of 
the Hudson River, is in the northwest corner of Orange Cotinty, 
bordering upon the counties of SulHvan and Ulster. It carries a 
point of Orange Countv land well i\p into old Ulster County and con- 
tains the northernmost soil of the county. 

It is bounded on the north by Sullivan and Ulster, on the east by Ulster 
and the town of Montgomery, south by Montgomery and W'allkill. and 
on the west by the town of Wallkill and Sullivan County. 

The area of the town, as given in the last report of the Orange 
Supervisors, is 24.769 acres. Upon this land the Crawford assessors for 
igo6 placed a valuation of $664,531, and returned personal property of 
its residents to the value of $15,300. The total tax raised in the town that 
year was $8,617.89. This amount was made up as follows: General fund, 
$2,668.14; poor fund, $600; town audits, $2,287.12; roads and bridges, 
$400; railroad purposes. $2,107.50: temporary relief, $250; sworn off 
taxes, $185.45; treasurer's credits, $115.33. 

The name Crawford came from a numerous and respectable family of 
Irish descent who were among the first settlers of the locality. The land 
was a part of the original John Evans patent referred to in other 
parts of this work. When this great tract was set aside the territory of 
this section was disposed of in many smaller grants to Philip Schuyler 
and others. Among the manv other tracts mentioned in the Crawford 
titles were the 8.000-acre tract which now includes the village of Pine 
Bush, and the lo.ooo-acre tract next on the south. The following sepa- 
rate patents were included in the Crawford township ; Thomas Ellison 
an<l Lawrence Roome. Xovember 12. 1750; Frederick Morris and Samuel 
Heath. January 24, 1736; Jacobus Bruyn and Henry Wileman. April 25. 
1722; Philip Schuyler and others. 8.000 acres. July 7. 1720; part of the 
patent to Jeremiah SchnyU'r and others, January 22, ]~\<i: part of Thomas 
Xoxon's patent February 21, 1737. 



i84 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE." 

NATURAL FEATURES OF THE TOWN. 

The general altitude of the town is somewhat higher than that of 
Montgomery. The general surface is a hilly upland broken by high 
ridges, which extend northeast and southwest. It is in fact separated 
from Montgomery by one of these elevated ridges known as the Colla- 
burgh and Comfort Hills, which at times rise 200 feet above the valley. 
While the land is somewhat more difficult to cultivate because of the stony 
hiils and undulating surface, the soil is very strong and productive, yield- 
ing line crops of grass, grain and fruits and responding well to tillage. 
These slopes and elevations have been found particularly well adapted to 
the growth of fruit of a superior quality. The proximity of the mountain 
range is said to have a favorable influence upon the general rainfall of the 
region. Showers are frequent in summer and the eirects of drouth are 
less severe than in other sections not so favored. 

The Shawangunk Kill or river is the principal stream, and it forms the 
western boundary of the town between it and Sullivan County, and after- 
ward it also separates the town from Ulster County until the northern 
limit of the town is reached. This is a rapid flowing stream and affords 
much valuable waterpower at different points, which has been utilized to 
some extent in a variety of ways. The early settlers were quick to see the 
value and importance of these privileges, and they began to make use of 
them in their primitive manner at once. 

Among the numerous tributaries to the Shawangunk in the town is 
the Paughcaughnaughsinque. The name is of Indian origin. There are 
in fact two of these subsidiary streams, the Big and the Little Paugh- 
caughnaughsinque. They flow northward and afford additional water 
power at different points. 

In the eastern portion of the town is a more important stream known 
now as the Dwaarskill. This, too, has enjoyed a great variety of ortho- 
graphic nomenclature, such as "Dwaaskill," "Dwarf'skill," etc. Of course 
the original was bestowed by the Indians, and, it is said, was given ni 
honor of a Chief of a small tribe which dwelt upon its banks. One of 
the old settlers in that region is credited with having seen this Indian 
Chief, who was called "Dwaase," and who had his wigwam near the old 
turnpike gate No. 3. Others claim, however, that the name is clearly 
Low or Holland Dutch, and signifies perverse or contrary because it 




Joel Whiltt-ii. 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 185 

flows iiorili. The stream l)egins somewliere near the center of the town 
of Wallkill, not far from the Crawford Railway junction,, flows through 
the valley parallel to that of the Shawang^unk Kill, and finally leaves the 
town at the northeast corner. 

This town also has its share of swamps, of which the historian Rutten- 
ber says Orange County has over 40,000 acres. One of these swamps is 
northwest of the Sinsabaugh neighborhood, and another is soutliwest of 
Searsburgh. 

EARLY SETTLEMENT AXD SETTLERS. 

This being among the newer towns of the county, the specific fletails 
of its settlement are so blended with the early history of the old Wallkill 
precinct and that of the town of ^lontgomery, from wdiich Crawford was 
set oflf, that it is quite impossible to separate them for this place. 

The Weller settlement was partly upon this territory. Johannes Sny- 
der started a small settlement in the vicinity of S'earsville, where he 
bought a large tract of land on both sides of the Dwaarskill. He built a 
primitive log mill there at once, and this is down in the records of 1768 
as Snyder's Mill. He seems to have been a man of means and influence, 
as he also built a log church soon after settling there, which was known 
as Snyder's Church. This Snyder family was Dutch and made the first 
settlement here in 1740, if not earlier. All the services in this little church 
was in the Dutch language, and it is recorded that the church was worn 
out or outgrown even before the Revolution. 

Somewhere about the same time Robert Milliken built a saw mill on 
the Shawangunk Kill. This is referred to as Milliken's mill in the records 
of 1768, and this is the earliest mention of a saw mill on that stream in 
the records. Other mills were built there, however, in later years. First 
was the old flour mill of Pat. Boice, next below the Milliken mill was the 
Sear's grist mill, then Abraham Bruyn's flour mill, and finally Cornelius 
Slott's saw and grist mill combined. The latter was continued by Arthur 
Slott after the death of his father, and he soon built a small collection of 
houses there for his employees. This Slott ancestry were among the oldest 
settlers in the State. The family came from Holland in 1670. as the 
family record shows. They located first at Hackensack. X. J., and after 
a few years there they removed to Rockland County, and soon after that 
they came to Montgnmory and settled on the Tinn Brook at a point after- 



i86 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ward known as Slott Towai. Cornelius Slott engaged in farming. In 
1777, while serving as an orderly sergeant with his military company, ni 
the active defense of Fort Montgomery, he was taken prisoner and con- 
fined in the old Sugar House, New York, by the British forces for ten 
months. In 1785, on regaining his liberty, he sold his farm and lived in 
New York for the next five years. Then he bought the mill site in Pine 
Bush and erected his saw mill just below the mouth of the Paughcaugh- 
naughsinque stream. The next year he also built a grist mill. There was 
no public road leading to his niill at the time, but he soon secured one 
from Hopewell. 

A small early settlement near Graham's Church was made by Abraham 
Dickerson, an Irishman, John Robinson and Philip Decker. Philip 
Decker's ancestors came from Holland. When sixteen years old he drove 
a team from Ward's Bridge to Valley Forge with a load of corn for 
W^ashington's army. Dickerson built a saw mill on a small stream near 
there which was operated successfully for a time and then fell into decay 
The portion of the Wallkill valley in this town was the site of the earliest 
settlement. These old pioneers consisted of Germans, Hollanders and 
Huguenots. Many of them came from the older settlements in Ulster 
County, and others were directly from their native land. 

Robert Jordan came here from Ireland in 1771. About 1784 he set- 
tled at Bullville in this town. His brother John seems to have settled 
there in 1767, having arrived in this country some years ahead of Robert. 
Among his neighbors there about that time or a few years later, were 
Joseph Elder, James F)arclay, Samuel Barclay, John Martin and Daniel 
Bull. Thomas Turner was also a. land owner in the Bullville settlement 
to the extent of 300 acres. 

In the Searsville neighborhood Willian_i Snider was among the pioneers. 
He purchased a large tract of land there upon which he lived many years 
before the Revolution. He seems to have been a man of some wealth, 
for at the outbreak of hostilities witli Great Britain he buried a consider- 
able sum of money in a secret place upon his property, the location of 
v;liich was known only to a faithful negro slave. After the war this negro 
was aw^arded by his master with his personal freedom because of his 
loyalty and faithfulness. 

An old apple orchard planted before the Revolution near Bullville, died 
out long years since. Nathan Johnson was the village shoemaker, going 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 187 

arouiul from house to house witli his kit of tools strapped upon his back. 
This occupation was then known as "whipping- the cat" for some reason 
not very clear at this time. Johnson was an old shoemaker who had 
been employed making- army shoes during the war. It was the custom 
at that period for those cobblers to go about at stated periods and do the 
family cobbling- and shocmaking for the year. 

A\'illiam Jordan, son of Robert, became colonel of the Shawangunk 
regiment of militia, and he lived under every President of the United 
States until his death, having voted the Democratic ticket for 66 years. 

l^enjamin Sears is mentioned in the records as a remarkable man in 
many respects among the settlers in that region. Coupled with rare 
native talent he had a most remarkable memory of details. Nothing eve: 
escaped him when once his mind grasped it. All his accounts were accu- 
rately kept in his mind. Tlut his education is said to have been very lim- 
ited. He served as constable in the town of ^Montgomery during his 
early life, where he had five brothers from wdiom there has been a long 
line of descendants. Fie also served as sheriff of Orange County for a 
time. And the small hamlet of Searsburgh, near the center of the town, 
on the Dwaarskill stream, was named for him. He established a flour 
and saw mill there at an earl}- date. 

Joseph Elder was of Irish descent and came into this region some years 
before the Revolution. He lived upon a very stony farm, and it is re- 
corded of him that being a man of giant frame, robust and vigorous, he 
would gather up these stones in a leathern apron girded about his loins 
and carry them to the place where they were used for fence walls, instead 
of carting them in a wagon. Though also scantily educated, he served 
some years as magistrate of his town with much satisfaction, being a man 
of strong common sense and good judgment. He seems also to have 
been a pioneer pedestrian, the original W^eston, apparently ; for it is re- 
corded that on a certain occasion, missing- his sloop at Xewburgh, which 
was alreaidy out of sight above the Danskammer Point, running with a 
fair wind, on the Hudson, on its way to Albany, \oung- Elder started oi>' 
at a rattling pace, with his musket and knapsack, to join his military com- 
pany at the Capital in tinie or be denounced as a traitor. It is said he 
beat the sloop by several hours, though the precise time made is not given. 

Dr. Joseph Whalen, another well known Irish pioneer, was among the 
early phvsicians practicing his profession in this region. Fie came at the 



i88 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

close of the war, settled in this town for a few years, and afterward 
practiced in Montgomery for over fifty }ears. It is worthy of note in 
this connection that in those da}-s no doctor ever expected to collect for 
his services from his patient in person. The doctor's claim was always 
presented to the executor or administrator, as the case might he, after the 
patient's death. There were obvious reasons for this custom then, as 
there often are even in these later times, but the reader must be left to 
draw his own conclusions. This noted doctor had a most extensive prac- 
tice, and he was also a famous horseman and equestrian, owning much 
fine horseflesh. He even rivaled the celebrated Count Pulaski, the Polish 
general in the Revolution, who would throw his hat before him on the 
road while under full speed on his horse and so far dismount as to take 
it up-. Dr. Whalen could take a glass of liquid in his hand, mount his 
horse, ride away a quarter of a mile and return without spilling a drop. 

Daniel Bull was another prominent settler of this region. He came 
some years before the Revolution and settled upon an extensive tract of 
newly cleared land which was rough and stony and had been owned by 
his father, Thomas Bull, who lived in the old stone house in Hampton- 
burgh. This land was then valued at $2.50 per acre. In 1780 he married 
Miss Miller at Goshen, where the bride and groom were snowbound for 
two weeks of their honeymoon. They had thirteen children and the 
family became one of the most prominent and numerous in the town. Mr. 
Bull was a most successful farmer, and he reclaimed a vast acreage of 
wild land and brought it under good and profitable tillage. He amassed 
wealth and became a valued citizen, being long regarded as a patriarch of 
the town. In 1821, the record shows, that fifty-two grandchildren had 
been born of this parentage, making a family total of seventy-six. All 
were then alive except two who died in infancy, and on a certain day in 
June of that year seventy-four members of this noted family were gath- 
ered in the family homestead near Bullville for a grand reunion. The 
farm is now owned by Theodore Roberson. 

The Crawford family, after which the town was named, were descend- 
ants of John Crawford, who settled in New Windsor in 1737. The names 
of John, William, James and Samuel are found upon the old military roll 
of 1738 for the Wallkill. Robert I. Crawford was a prominent citizen 
here early in the last century, and he lived near the old Hopewell church. 

The Thompson brothers, Alexander, Andrew, and Robert, came from 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 189 

Ireland about 1770. They boui^ht 500 acres of land on what became 
afterward known as Thompson's Ridge, and divided the plot equallv 
among themselves. One of these farms then included the site of the 
Hopewell church, and all this property has been kept in the Thompson 
family. 

David Rainey was another ante-revolutionary settler in this locality, 
and he established what was afterward known as the "brick-house farm." 
near Pine Bush. He erected the first brick house between Newburgh and 
Ellenville. Although only a boy during the Revolution, he served for a 
short time in the Continental Army under Clinton. The ancestor of 
Jacob Whitten was also among the pioneers there. 

Among the early physicians of the town were Dr. Crosby, who lived 
near the Hopewell church and practiced during the early part of the last 
century; Dr. Charles Winfield, who lived near Pine Bush; Dr. Hunter, 
of Searsville, who later served as school inspector for that time ; Dr 
Griffith, also of Pine Bush, who died in 1855, and Dr. Durkee, who lived 
a mile south of Pine Bush. 

TOWN ORGAXIZATIOX. 

The town of Crawford was formed from the town of Montgomery, 
March 4, 1823. That older town covered such a large extent of territory 
that it was found inconvenient and expensive to conduct the public busi- 
ness to advantage. A convenient and practicable arrangement of boundary 
lines for a division of the town was found possible whereby there might 
be a central point convenient of access for the citizens of each town. The 
name Crawford was given in honor of that pioneer family, as before 
stated, many of its descendants having become so closely identified with 
the local interests of the region. 

The first town meeting was held at the house of Edward Schoonmaker, 
April I, 1823. William W. Crawford was then 'chosen the first super- 
visor ; Oliver Mills, town clerk, and a full list of officials was selected. 
Every man was authorized to act as his own poundmaster, and every farm 
was regarded as a pound. A bounty of $25 was voted for every wolf 
killed in the town, which shows that these hungry animals were still 
roaming through the forests at that time. At a special meeting held later 
in the month, $460 was voted to be raised for the support of the poor for 



190 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

that year. There were then thirty-nine road districts in that little town, 
and each district had its accredited roadmaster. Jjiit the records are not 
clear as to the character or extent of the road work done in that early 
period. Of course every male citizen was recjuired to appear for service 
upon the road at such time or times as the master of his district would 
desig-nate, and put in such number of days' work as his property posses- 
sions called for under the prevailing- provisions of the State road laws. 
The roadmaster was the boss, and if he said the roadway must be highly 
rounded in the center, a plow was run deeply along each side of the track 
and the loose mud or dirt was scraped up into the road with hoes cr 
shovels. Then the Vv'agon wheels would throw out this mud during the 
rest of the year when it was not frozen, where the workers of the suc- 
ceeding year would find it again, waiting to be scraped back into the road- 
wav. This was the old process of road repair for two hundred years, and 
there seems to have been general satisfaction with the curious method as 
far as the records disclose. In fact, the public highways were not re- 
garded of great importance in those days in spite of the fact that the> 
witre the leading if not the only arteries of transportation throughotit 
the country before the advent of railways and cheap water-line shipment. 
These observations are made in this connection because of the recent 
dawn of a new era in roads and road work, when the great importance 
of public roads and their proper repair and maintenance has at last been 
more nearly recognized. Very soon these antiquated methods will be 
among the curious events in history. 

When the Middletown and Crawford Railway was projected through 
this town the sum of $80,000 was raised by the town authorities in aid 
of its construction. This was in July, 1868. The interest upon this debt 
has been paid annually smcc that time, but in 1880 no part of this princi- 
pal sum had yet been paid. This was a severe tax upon the town which 
bore rather heavily upon the farmers especially, a class that rarely escapes 
the lion's share of these burdens of modern civilization. But the railway 
has been of great value to every resident as a developing factor of that 
entire region and none now regrets its cost. 

VILLAGES OF THE TOWN. 

Hopewell. — This village is in the western portion of the town, not far 
from the Shawangunk River. The name was taken from the old Hope- 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 191 

well cliurcli, which \\a> an ulYshuul imni the Goodwill Presbyterian con- 
gregation at .Montgomery, where the Congregational section had been 
squeezed out, as it were. They were thus in need of hope at the time, 
and thus the name "Hopewell" was suggested by some of the more 
thoughtful members, and it was very promptly adopted for the church 
name, as it afterward was also for the little village which gathered about 
it. Jt does not appear that any important business or mercantile trade 
was ever conducted there, however. It is merely a fertile farm section 
where the residents have gathered to make their homes. The postal facil- 
ities for these people ?re at Thompson's Ridge, a station on the Crawford 
branch of the Erie Railway. 

Bullville. — This is in the southwestern portion of the town near the 
Wallkill line. It was named in honor of Thomas Bull, who lived there 
many years and engaged in various business enterprises, and in fact 
founded the place. While the name of the hamlet is not especially felici- 
tous, nor even euphonious, the location is attractive and pleasing, it bemg 
upon high ground with a line view of the surrounding landscape. A fine 
commodious i»iIethodist church was built there many years ago and there 
is a most attractive cluster of fine dwellings. In 1880 a hotel was con- 
ducted by Silas Dickerson and a general store by Charles Roe. There 
were also a creamery, tv:0 blacksmith shops, a flour and feed store, a coal 
\ard and even a distillery. The ]3lace is seven miles west of i\Iontgomer\ 
village. 

Searsville. — This was formerly known as Searsburgh. It is another 
small village, near the center of the town, on the Dwaarskill. It was 
named for, and practicall}- founded by, Benjamin Sears, already men- 
tioned at some length. He built the mills there at an early date, and his 
more distant neighbors soon gathered about him and built their honies 
there. It was formerly a trading point of some importance, but the ad- 
vent of the railway brought other neighboring hamlets into greater prom- 
inence and left this place somewhat isolated. But in 1880 there were a 
hotel, two blacksmith and wagon shops, a grist mill and a saw mill still in 
operation. There is also a post-oflice. The location being central, the 
town meetirvgs were usually held there in past years, and the general 
official business was transacted there. 

Thoinpsofi's Ridge. — A short distance we>i of Sear.sville, on the Craw- 
ford Branch Railwav. is this hamlet, as before stated. In former vears 



192 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

it was mainly composed of the Thompson family, for which it was origi- 
nally named. Daniel Thompson, the railway superintendent, lived near 
there. The station is quite an important one both for its passenger busi- 
ness and the large shipments of milk which are made from it. A small 
store, the post-ofifice, and the various railway structures make up the 
business part of the hamlet. It is in the midst of the finest farming sec- 
tion of Orange County, the farms of the Thompson family and others 
in that neighborhood being the most productive in the county. 

CoUabitrg. — This is in the southern section of the town, and the name 
is now printed "Collabar" on the modern map of the county. The 
locality is somewhat thickly settled. It w'as formerly an important point 
on the Newburgh and Cochecton turnpike, with a hotel and many other 
buildings of a varied character. But the new railway did not touch the 
place and travel was soon diverted to other points, which stopped all 
further development there. 

Pine Bush. — This is located near the Shawangunk River, in the north- 
ern part of the town, near the Ulster County line, and it is a thriving 
business village, the most important in the town. It is the northern ter- 
minus of the Crawford Branch Railway, and its post-office serves a large 
section of country on both sides of the river in that region. The village 
site is generally level and attractive, upon the high bank of the stream at 
that point, and the land environment comprises a most fertile farming 
section. The old grist mill there belongs to the Revolutionary period, 
and the Shawangunk Mountains rise in rugged, frowning peaks which 
overlook the valley and form a background of rare beauty. The heights 
of the Hudson River are seen in the distant horizon toward the east and 
north, and there is a rare combination of upland, valley, mountain and 
stream, forest slopes and well tilled farms which charms the beholder and 
forms a most attractive and beautiful landscape. Summer visitors are 
attracted here in large numbers, and they find much to admire and enjoy. 

Among the early tradesmen here was James Thompson, who opened a 
store in 1824. He was succeeded by Hezekiah Watkins, Tarbosch & 
Weller, Louis Wisner, Elijah Smith and George Oakley. Dr. Ewan 
came in 1830, and built a hotel and also conducted a drug store. Abra- 
ham Mould began a tannery plant in 1825, but after a few years he was 
killed by James Mitchell in a violent personal quarrel, for which Mitchell 
was finally acquitted on the ground of self defense. 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 193 

The r)l(l Ellenville and Xewburgli plank road — a wicked production of 
a benighted period — passed through Pine Bush. This, however, marked 
the beginning of the modern growth of the place. There were 
then only three or four dwelling houses. In 1880 there were in addition 
to the various railway structures, two hotels, several stores, many shops 
of various kinds, a restaurant, grist mill and saw mill, meat market, pho- 
tograph gallery, livery stable, distillery, marble works, and a great variety 
of other business enterprises. The post-office was originally known as 
Crawford, and Arthur Slott was probably the first postmaster. The name 
of the village was bestowed on account of the dense growth of pine trees 
which formerly covered that entire tract of land. The opening of the 
railway was of course a great event for Pine Bush and had much to do 
with its subsequent development and progress. Mr. A. R. Taylor, a 
leading business man, came from Ulsterville in 1848 and proved a most 
progressive citizen, opening many new stores and taking an active part 
in all village nnprovements. Fie was a civil engineer and was credited 
with having driven the first stake in Chicago during an engagement in the 
west many years ago, which if true is a well merited distinction. 

SCHOOLS OF TIIF. TOWX. 

( )liver Mills. Alexander Thompson and Hieromous W'eller were the 
first school commissioners chosen at the formation of the town. From 
1843 to 1856 the public schools were under the control of town superin- 
tendents chosen at each annual election. There were ten school districts 
in 1823. and 655 children between the ages of five and fifteen in the town, 
small portions of the towns of Wallkill and Montgomery being then iii- 
cluded in this enumeration. The amount of public money received was 
$26-^.-14. Among the earlv school teachers of this town were John Flard- 
castlc. William Brown. Mr. Reed and Mr. Crosby. And they are said to 
have been firm believers in the free use of the rod in the inculcation of a 
thorough knowledge of the tjiree "Rs" and the maintenance of proper 
discipline. 

THI-. CRAWFORD CHfRCHES. 

The first efl'ort to build a church in Flopewell was made in 177Q by tlie 
Presbyterian association. But they succeeded only in completing th.- 
e\teri< r of the buiMin;' an! verv little was done toward fini^hin*-- the 



194 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

inside of the structure. And yet for the next three years those devoted 
Christian people were content to worship in this unfinished building with 
all its discomforts. They went to church faithfully and regularly. In 
1792 they united in a corporate body and selected a full board of trustees, 
as follows: William Cross, Robert Alilliken, Jonathan Crawford, Daniel 
Bull, Andrew Thompson, Nathan Crawford, Abraham Caldwell, Robert 
Thompson and Robert McCreery. Soon after this they finished their 
church and called the Rev. Jonathan P'reeman as their pastor, who was 
installed August 28, 1793. This may be regarded therefore as the date 
of the organization of this church, which began with twenty-one members. 
Mr. Freeman multiplied this number by five during the next five years 
and then resigned for another field of labor. The next five years this little 
pulpit remained vacant. Rev. Lsaac Van Doren took up the work there 
in 1803 and labored most successfully for 21 years, adding some 152 
members to the little flock of worshippers during that period. Then, 
after further changes in the pastorate, a new and more commodious 
church building was built of stone on another site, which was completed 
in 1832. Rev. John H. Leggett was then the pastor for the next twentv- 
three years, when he went to Middletown. Flis ministerial work in this 
Hopewell church is highly spoken of in the records, he being a powerful 
preacher and a man of great activity and influence. 

What was known as Graham's Church, associated Reformed, was es- 
tablished by Robert Graham in 1799. A house of worship was erected 
at once and it was opened for use in August of the same year. Mr. 
Graham died a fev/ weeks later, but he devised 100 acres of land to thi^ 
church organization for its pastor. This church was merely a branch of 
the older organization at Neeleytown until 1802, when it became inde- 
pendent, with Samuel Gillespie and Andrew Thompson as elders. There 
were then only 2^ regular members, and the Rev. John ]McJimsey still 
served both this and the Neeleytown church. He left in 1809 but re- 
turned ten years later and remained until his death in 1854. Robert 
Graham, the founder of this chm"ch, was a staunch Scotch-Irish Presby- 
terian, and he left a lasting impress for good upon this people. 

The Crazvford Methodist Church is located at Bullville and it was in- 
corporated April 20, 1859. The trustees named were Jacob M. Shorter, 
Robert Hill and Herman S. Shorter. The original church structure was 
completed in the summer of 1861 at a cost of $8,000, which was donated 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 195 

by Mrs. 'Slary Shorter. Rev. Joliii W'ardle was tlie first pastor, being 
assigned there in response to a request of Mrs. Shorter. 

The Methodist Church of Pine Bush was incorporated November 28. 
1870. with llie following trustees: William li. Barnes, John Walker, Sam- 
uel Armstrong. William II. Cowley and l-'rancis M. Bodine. But there had 
been religious setvices there many years before this, especially in the 
school house. The old Reformed Church over the river at Shawangimk, 
in Ulster County, 'lad many men'ibers in the Pine Bush village, and there 
was preaching in the little school house nearly every Sunday, either by 
the pastor of that church or by the Methodist preacher from Bullville. 
But the Methodist people were not satisfied with this arrangement and 
they finally built a church for themselves, completing it in the spring of 
1871 at a total cost of $8,000. of which only half had been paid. But the 
balance was pledged at the dedication ceremonies held on the night of 
April 24, 1871. This buildmg was repaired and improved some ten years 
later. 

HISTORIC POIXT.S OF INTEREST. 

Near the site of the old Slott grist mill on the bank of the river is an 
old log hut which is said to date back to the ante-Revolutionary period. 
During that war this hut was on the \'an Amburg property, and that 
family was somewhat closely connected with the noted Anneke Jans, who 
once owned the ground now covered by the vast estates of Trinity Church 
in New York City, in which her myriad heirs, scattered all over America 
to-day, still claim an equitable share, and justly so. perhaps. In this old 
log structure once lived a stalwart female member of the \'an Amburg 
family, and the story is that during the Revolution a biq reward was 
ofiered by the British officers for her capture. "Shanks Ben," a noted 
I'lster County Tory, like Claudius Smith of Orange County, being at- 
tracted by this rich, reward, planned her capture. He concealed himself 
in one of the farm hay-stacks where he knew she would come to feed 
her cattle at a certain time. But when he saw the huge old-fashioned 
hayfork in her hand, he concluded that discretion was the better part of 
valor, and was in fact glad to escape with his own life, fearing she might 
chance to puncture his brave anatomy in reaching for the required hay- 
fodder. If this somewhat noted woman was ever captured by the red- 
coats the records fail to disclose it. 



196 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Aside from th-e pursuit of farming and lumbering, this town has never 
been able to boast of any very important industries. Nearly every citizen 
was engaged in the cultivation of the soil during its early history at least. 
As already noted, the town was famed for its production of the choicest 
grade of Orange County butter. In later years, under the changed con- 
dition of transportation facilities, the manufactured products of the dairy 
were almost entirely discontinued and gave way to the natural product of 
milk, which was shipped to the New York markets in large quantities. 

The growth of apples, peaches and other fruits, for which the land is 
so well adapted, has meanwhile increased in extent and importance, and 
many of the Crawford orchards that were properly cultivated and cared 
for have becom.e sources of large profit to their owners. 

While many of the more ancient grist and saw mills of the town have 
now disappeared, some have been greatly improved and modernized and 
new ones have been built. 

MILITARY HISTORY. 

On this topic little can be said with reference to the early history of 
this separate section, as the town came into existence some time after the 
close of the wars with foreign nations. All such data is hopelessly buried 
in the ancient annals of Wallkill and Montgomery sO' far as the Crawford 
chronicler is concerned. There were doubtless patriots of this section 
who served in the Continental army of Washington, and others who went 
out in the military company during the second outbreak in 1812. But 
the records contain no separate lists of these and this roll of honor cannot 
therefore be presented here. Philip Decker, David Rainey and Joseph 
Elder, the only names we can positively identify as being residents of 
what is now the town of Crawford, who served in the Revolution. 

But in the War of the Rebellion the record is more complete. While, 
like most other towns in nearly every county in the northern States, there 
were misguided men in Crawford, partisans, politicians and abject fol- 
lowers of that class, servile men with little principle and less brains, who 
opposed the war on political principle, or through ignorance of the situa- 
tion, without regard to the safety of the American Union of States, the 
great majority of the citizens, here as elsewhere, were loyal Union men. 
And when the first secession enn belched forth on Fort Sumter the old 



TOWN OF CRAWFORD. 197 

spirit of patriotism which had animated their ancestors was fired anew 
The town furnished 188 men for the Union army and navy under the 
various calls of President Lincoln and the draft. Sixty-nine men went 
forward at once under Captain Samuel Hunter, who organized a company 
of volunteers in the town known as Co. H, which was attached to the 
124th Regiment. The sum of $525 was raised by subscription in 18C2 
foi bounties paid to 21 volunteers who enlisted in the i68th Regiment, 
and $50 was raised for a like purpose in connection with the regiment 
first named. In 1863 $3,000 was raised and $27,610 the following 
year. Then, under the last call, $16,500 was added to these cash contri- 
butions from this tow^n, making the total sum $47,685. On the final set- 
tlement with the State after the war, $11,700 of this amount was returned 
to the town for excess of years and bounties. A tax of $30,000 was au- 
thorized in January, 1865, but as is seen above only a portion of this 
amoiuit was required. 

The record contains a detailed list of the men furnished by the town 
from which it appears that ten enlisted in the 56th Regiment in 1861, one 
in the 1 8th, five in the 19th. and twelve in other regiments during the first 
year. Then in 1862, twenty-one went out in the 124th, and thirty in the 
i68th. Tw'enty-nine enlisted in various other organizations in 1863 and 
1864. and tw-enty-nine others were drafted into the service, most of whom 
furnished substitutes. 

As showing who were among the leading farmers in this town in the 
early part of the 19th century, it will be of interest perhaps to quote a 
few items from an old list of agricultural premiums awarded at the 
county fairs held in that period. In 1820 Daniel Bull w'as awarded $20, 
fur the best farm of 100 acres in the town. He also had the second best 
fat oxen. The next year PTenry Bull got $10 for the second best farm, 
and Daniel Bull $15 for the best working oxen. In 1822 Henry Bull had 
the best three acres of \vinter wheat, for which lie was awarded a prize 
of Sio. Moses Crawford then received a like award for 2.051 ix)unds of 
butter from twenty cows. In 1823 Moses Crawford received a four- 
dollar prize for the third best piece of dressed woolen cloth, also various 
other prizes for white flannel, linen, etc. \\'illiam Gillespie then had a 
fine exhibit of sewing-silk, for which he received a prize. These items 
are taken at random from an old record which, stratigely enough, does 
not contain the first awards in manv cases. 



198 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The population of Crawford, according to the national census of 1880, 
was 1,951, which was a decrease from that of 1870 of seventy-three. 

The Pine Bush Library Association was organized November 10, 1899, 
at a meeting held in Wallace Hall for the purpose of considering the 
practicability of establishing a public library in the village. H. J. Mc- 
Kinney, Mrs. Joel Whitten, J- E Ward, Mrs. J. L. Acheson, D. T. 
Bowen, Miss Emma B. Shaper, S. K. Seybolt and Mrs, Nelson Van 
Keuren were chosen trustees. H. J. McKinney was elected president, 
retaining the office until his death, September 24, 1907. While ably dis- 
charging the duties of the position, he was a liberal contributor to the 
support of the library. He supervised the construction of the building it 
now occupies. 

The library was incorporated December 21, 1899, receiving from the 
State University a provisional charter. December i, 1904, a permanent 
charter was granted. 

Through the kindness of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union 
of Pine- Bush the library was kept in the rooms of that organization with- 
out cost to the association, until the summer of 1907, when it was re- 
moved to its present home. This was remodeled from a building pre- 
sented to the Library Association by H. P. Taylor, a resident of the vil- 
lage, and is a substantial edifice with an attractive interior, admirably 
arranged for library purposes. 

The library, which is free, now numbers more than 2,000 well selected 
books. The funds for its support are derived from the membership dues, 
contributions, lectures or entertainments, and the State appropriation. 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 199 

CHAPTER XW 
TOWN OF DEER PARK. 

LOCATION, AREA AND TITLE. 

THIS town is located in the extreme western ang;\e of Orange 
County. In outline the territory forms nearly a perfect triangle. 
It is one of the larger towns in the county, having an area of 
37,020 acres, according to the latest tax tables of the Orange supervisors, 
being exceeded only in extent by the town of Warwick. It is also next to 
the largest in population, having 11,562 inhabitants, according to the 
State census of IQ05. It is also a most important town in several other 
respects, as will be seen from the comprehensive outline presented in the 
succeeding pages. 

It contains the point of land where three States intersect — New York, 
New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This precise point is known as the "Tri- 
States' Rock." This solid rock is at the extreme point of the tongue of 
land lying at the mouth of the Neversink River and between that stream 
and the Delaware River. A copper bolt has been sunk in this reck to 
mark the spot which has been agreed upon by the authorities of these 
States. By standing over this bolt one is therefore in three different 
.States at the same time. 

Whether or not the full legal import of this strategic point of vantage 
has been well understood by certain classes, or made use of in critical 
emergencies, is not definitely known. It is, however, one of the show 
places of Port Jervis, and visitors may easily find it by a short walk 
through Laurel Grove Cemetcn-. 

In 1880 the .town assessors reix)rted a total value of taxable property 
of $2,431,680. upon which a tax of $37,374.27 was levied. These amounts 
have been increased to $2,509,003, and $41,378.65 resf>ectively, the valu- 
ation of the two banks not included, $379,706, on which their tax is levied. 

With the exception of the small tracts known as the Arent Schuyler 
patent, the Tietsort 400 acre j)atent. and the Cuddeback patent, the title 
to all the land of Deer Park comes from the Minisink patent. This name 
was originally spelled "Minnisink." The tribal Indian occupants were 



200 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

first known as the Minquas, and subsequently as the Alinsi^, from which 
the present name seems to have been evolved. 

Captain Arent Schuyler visited this region in 1694, during that turbu- 
lent period of war with the savages, in order to determine how far the 
influence of the French had effected the aborigines. 

The town is bounded on the north by Sullivan County, on the southeast 
by Mount Hope and Cornwall, and on the southwest by New Jersey, 
Pennsylvania, and the County of Sullivan. 

NATURAL FEATURES. 

The topographical features of Deer Park are peculiarly marked. There 
is the broad valley of the Neversink on the east, reaching from northeast 
to southwest. This soil is exceptionally fertile, and here it was that the 
early settlers began to build their cabins and blaze their way into the 
thick forests. 

A short, distance from the Neversink stream the old Delaware & Hud- 
son Canal was constructed and operated for many years, the line being 
nearly parallel to the river. This great coal artery from the mines to the 
Hudson was, however, abandoned in 1898 after seventy years of success- 
ful operation, and the new EUenville & Kingston Railway took its place. 

The Neversink stream has no important tributaries from the east. On 
the west the Old Dam Kill comes into the main stream at Huguenot. 
This drains a large portion of the central territory and gives some valu- 
able water power. Basha's Kill is the larg-est branch entering from the 
east near Cuddebackville. 

The Delaware River separates the town from Pennsylvania on the 
southwest, and the Alongaup branch of the Delaware divides the town 
from Sullivan County. Tributaries of this Mongaup stream drain the 
higher central portions of the town. Still other tributaries of the Dela- 
ware flow through the Honesdale region. 

The general surface of the town is a mountamous upland broken by 
many small streams which often flow through rocky ravines. There are 
steep declivities along the Delaware, Mount William and Point Peter be- 
ing the most attractive features near Port Jervis. Along Basha's Kill the 
bottoms are known as the Mamakating valley. Those along the Never- 
sink constitute the Suckapack valley, until the junction wdth Basha's Kill 




S. H. Gc 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 201 

is reachetl. when it is Ciilled the Xeversink valley proper, althouij^h also 
known as the Peenpack. This valley extends to the mouth of the Xever- 
sink at Carpenter's Point. If space perniitted it woukl be interesting to 
trace the origin and significance of these quaint names. 

1: AKiA si; I n.CMEXT. 

In 1689 the old town of Schenectady in New York State was captured 
by the Indians after a bloody fight. Among the residents there who fled 
from the place was one William Tietsort (now written Titsw^orth), who 
came to the land of Esopus first, but soon afterward went to this Minisink 
region and settled in these forests. After a residence there of some years 
he sought the right to purcliase a tract of land there. This was in 1698, 
and he succeeded in obtaining the land. His title to this tract, though in 
dispute for a time, was finally confirmed, and it was excepted from the 
Minisink patent. This tract was afterward sold to John Decker, and the 
location is thought to have been near Port Jervis. Thus the hon.or of 
being the first settler seems to belong to this William Tietsort. 

Other pioneer settlers came into the Peenpack valley and also in Mama- 
kating Hollow. Most of these okl pioneers seem to have taken such lands 
as suited their fancy with very little regard to who the owner might be. 
Many of these came in from the famous Esopus region, and these were 
mostly of that thrifty Dutch stock which made that ancient region so 
famous and important in the formative period of the State and national 
history. Nearly all settled along the streams where the advantages of 
fertile soil and level land seemed most attractive and important. 

In 1697 Arent Schuyler received his patent, which covered a large tract 
in the ^Minisink country called by the natives Sankhcheneck, otherwise 
Mayhawaem, also another tract called "Warinsayskmeck, u])()n the river 
Mennessincks before an island called Menagnock, which was near the 
Ivfaghaghkemek tract and contained 1,000 acres and no more." About the 
same time another grant of land containing 1200 acres was given to Jacob 
Codebeck, Thomas Swartwout, Anthony Swartwout. Rernardus Swart- 
wout, Jan Tys. Peter Gimar and David Jamison. 

Both these patents were in the Peenpack valley, and they were so im- 
perfectly described in the titles that it was impossible to fix their precise 
location or boundaries. They were therefore regarded as "floating" pat- 



202 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

eiits or tracts, and the grantees were inclined to lake possession of most 
any unappropriated lands in that valley and settle where they saw fit. 
This led to much difficulty in the succeeding years, and when it became 
necessary to divide this Minisink patent the commissioners found no end 
of trouble. 

The patentees Codebeck and Gimar were French and came here after a 
brief sojourn in Maryland. They married into the Swartwout family, 
which was a sturdy, vigorous stock, well able to cope with the warlike 
natives and ferocious wild animals and dense forests as pioneers. 

The seven joint owners of this patent are said to have come into this 
region in 1690, although there is no authentic record of any w^hite people 
there until 1604. T^he land covered by this patent laid along the Never- 
sink River and Basha's Kill. Mamakating Hollow^ was then the nearest 
settlement, some twenty-five or thirty miles north. 

In those days the settlement of a new country was indeed a herculean 
task with the meager facilities then existing. And this was pre-eminently 
true of this town, which was still slumbering in a dense primeval forest. 
Plows and all other implements were of the crudest description. What 
little grain was grown by these ancient farmers had to^ be cut with a knife 
or rude sickle, and then the grain was separated from the straw by the 
tramp of horses upon the threshing floor. It was afterward winnowed 
from the chafif by hand-fans made of willow rods. This was the univer- 
sal practice in this region down to 1760. The first fanning mill was 
brought in here just previous to this by Peter Gumaer. The wagons 
were made almost entirely of wood and the harness of flax and tow. 
During the long winter evenings while the men were making these things 
the women were spinning and reeling yarn. Not the yarn of the idle 
gossiper, as now, but the fiber. and fabric of utility which went into their 
clothing. 

The old Esopus region was some fifty or sixty miles north and the 
roads were left to the vagaries of Dame Nature. But these pioneers 
had to cart their corn and other produce there for sale. Wheat was the 
staple crop, and Jacob Codebeck of this town was the first to attempt 
grinding it in a small mill. One of these millstones, about two feet in 
diameter and three inches thick, is still in the Gumaer cellar near where 
the old mill stood. This was afterward followed by two other grist mills 
on the "Old Dam Brook." Then came the DeWitt mill in 1770, on the 



TOWX OF DEER PARK. 203 

Xevcrsink River near Cuddebackvillc, and others in later years. These 
ancient mills had no devices for bolting the flour as now; thus after the 
grinding- process, the whole had to be sifted by hand in order to secure 
the fine flour for bread-making and other culinary uses. 

One of the earliest saw mills was erected in this town soon after 1760. 

It should be said in this connection that there is some traditionary evi- 
dence of a still earlier settlement in this Minisink region which takes the 
date back even to 1650. Most of these claims, however, seem based upon 
certain letters written by Samuel Preston of Stockport, Penn., in 1828. 
In these letters he gave the recollections of John Lukens, Surveyor Gen- 
eral of Pennsvlvaiiia. as to this very ancient settlement. His memory 
extended back to 1730. On this rather hazy authority it is claimed that 
the first settlement was prior to 1664, when the region was still in the 
possession of the Dutch, antl that the settlement was abandoned at the 
English conquest. lUit there are no existing documents to substantiate 
any such claim, and the entire weight of evidence seems to clearly dis- 
prove it. 

The records show that in 1714 the only freeholders in ]\Iaghaghkemek 
were Thomas Swartwout, Harmon Barentsen, Jacob Cuddeback, Peter 
Gumaer and Jacobus Swartwout. To these were added, fourteen years 
later, the names of John \'an Vleit, Jr., Samuel Swartwout and r>er- 
nardus Swartwout, Jr. This would show a very small increase in 38 
years, assuming that the settlement began in 1690. 

This town became important also because of the long dispute over the 
boundary line between the .States of New York and New Jersey. The 
variance of this line over which the conflict arose was in this township. 
The o^yners of the Minisink and the 1,200 acre patents were much dis- 
turbed for years by the Xew Jersey State authorities, who claimed the 
line ran considerably farther north of the Delaware River than the Deer 
Park people had established it. The New Jersey people claimed a large 
portion of this 1,200 acre patent through which they insisted the line 
ran, they procured a colony title to this disputed portion of that patent. 
The precise location of the line being vague and uncertain, no action at 
law could be maintained by either side, but a bitter struggle ensued and 
lasted for many years. The trouble seems to have arisen over the mean- 
ing of the phrase "the northernmost branch of the Delaware River," 
which was the language used in the description of title. There was a big 



204 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

triangular gore of land in dispute. This conflict lasted nearly seventy- 
five years, and then it was finally settled by an equitable division of the 
land in question. 

Among the residents on this disputed land was Major Swartwout, and 
the Jersey claimants planned to oust him from the property by force. He 
was prepared for such an attack, but in spite of all his loaded guns it 
seems that about 1730 the Jersey ites routed him from the house and 
threw out all his goods. But with the assistance of friends in Goshen the 
major was reinstated, and he afterward successfully repelled another 
attack made about ten years later. He was, however, captured and im- 
prisoned, together with Johannes Westbrook, another resident of the 
battleground, some time between 1764 and 1767, by a strong force of 
Jerseymen who surrounded his church on the Sabbath, and seized the 
two men at the close of the service, after a fierce struggle. 

Soon after this a new line was agreed upon and the fight ended by the 
passage of a royal. ^dict at the Court of St. James in September, 1773. 
Commissioners of the two States afterward ran the line in accordance 
with that agreement. 

In 1874, one hundred years later, commissioners representing the two 
States made a resurvey with the assistance of the United States Coast 
Survey ofticials, which finally settled the great controversy for all time. 

In 1775, an old assessment roll of district No. 3, which was the south- 
ern portion of Deer Park, comprising the present territory of Port Jervis 
and vicinity, contained forty-eight names of property holders. The largest 
of these was Johannes Decker, who was assessed for 17 pounds 8 shillings 
and 7 pence. Next in order was Anthony Van Etten, John Wells, Abra- 
ham Van Auken and Johannes Decker, Jr. 

The DeWitt family of this town were descendants of Tjerck Claesson 
DeWitt, who came from Holland and settled in Wiltwyck, now Kings- 
ton, at a very early date. It was a ver}- prominent family here and many 
of its members achieved distinction. 

Among other prominent settlers in this region were Peter Gumaer, Jan 
Tyse, Bernardus Swartwout, Jacob Cuddeback, Anthony Swartwout, 
David Jameson, and Hermanns Van Inwegen. 

The very earliest physician in this region was Doctor Chattle, and he 
settled near Carpenter's Point and practiced there until his death, many 
years later. He came in at the opening of the nineteenth century. 



roWX OI- PEER PARK. 205 

CIVIL ORGAN I Z ATI OX. 

Just wlicn the civil organization of Deer i'ark was formed is not deh- 
nitely known. The Legislative act of October 18, 1701, provided that the 
"people of Wagach-emeck, the Great and Little Minisink, should vote in 
the County of Ulster." This would imply that they were outside of that 
county. This territory covered what is since known as Cuddebackville 
and vicinity. Eight years later the boundary between the counties was 
more definitely fixed by the Legislature. Soon after this the territory 
went under the name of ]\laghaghkemek, remaining under this jaw- 
breaking title until 1743, wdien the precinct of IMamakating was erected, 
which was at least a slight improvement upon the old name. 

This continued until 1798 when the town of Deer Park was organized. 
The first Mamakating- precinct meeting w-as held at the house of Samuel 
Swartw^out. This territory then included "all the land to the southward 
of the tow"n of .Rochester as far as the County of Ulster extends, and to 
the westward to the precincts of Wallkill and Shawangunk." 

While the name Minisink was applied to the territory above named, it 
has been contended by some waiters that there was in addition a precinct 
of Minisink, and there are documents which seem, to establish this fact 
even as early as 1739. But this precinct seems to have been erected 
along the Delaware River below wdiat afterward became Carpenter's 
Point. 

The territory now in Deer Park south of the old county line compris- 
ing Port Jervis and vicinity was a part of the town of ]\Iinisink from 1789 
to 1825. 

The first supervisor of the Mamakating precinct elected in April. 1774, 
was Benjamin Dupuy. The first supervisor of Deer Park elected in April, 
1798, was James Finch, and he remained in that ofifice by successive elec- 
tions until 1810, when Peter E. Gumaer succeeded him. But Mr. Finch 
V.P.S again selected to serve the town in that capacity on three different 
occasions. 

The earliest assessment roll of the town now preserved in the town 
clerk's office, which was the first roll of Deer Park after the division of 
the territory, is that of 1825. This shows a total valuation of $114,820, 
and there were fifteen i:)ersons on the list for over $2,000, the highest 
being Peter E. Gumaer at $6,230. 



2o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CENTERS. 

With the exception of Port Jervis the centers of population in the 
town are small and unimportant. Among them may be mentioned West- 
brookville on the line of the old canal, northeast of Cuddebackville ; Port 
Orange, a short distance south on the canal line : Cuddebackville, in the 
northeastern part of the town, named in honor of the pioneer settler, 
Jacob Cuddeback ; Rose Point, a station on the Monticello Railway ; Port 
Clinton, still further down the valley; Gumaers, also on the old canal line, 
and Huguenot, between this and Port Jervis. Near this point are valu- 
able mineral springs, discovered in i860. In 1880 a pipe line for the trans- 
mission of petroleum oil to tide water was constructed through this sec- 
tion, with stationary engines and a power plant for forcing this oil to 
market. 

Carpenter's Point is a very old locality, named for an early settler, who 
established a ferry across the Delaware River there at a very early period. 
It is near Port Jervis on the south and the famous "Tri-States rock" is 
located here at the extreme point. This rock marks the junction of the 
States of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. There are several 
stores, an old grist mill, and many dwellings. A bridge here spans the 
Neversink River which was built in 1868. 

Sparrowbush is another hamlet and post-office on the old canal line. 
Bushkill is in the western part of the town, and Ouarryhill is a local 
mining district still farther west. .Shin Hollow is a neighborhood on the 
slope of the Shawangunk Mountain w'here the Erie Railway crosses the 
tOAvn line into Alomit Hope. Paradise is a small hamlet on the Sullivan 
border northeast of Cuddebackville, and Honesville and Bolton are other 
small hamlets born of the canal enterprise. 

CEMETERIES. 

The Gumaer graveyard is believed to be the oldest burial place in the 
town. Some of the old stones have inscriptions which show that burials 
were made there very early in the eighteenth century. 

The old Machackenerck graveyard is in the southern section of the 
town at Port Jervis. Previous to 1907 this ground was much neglected, 
and its condition was anything but creditable to the citizens of that grow- 
ing village. Interments were made there long prior to the Revolution. 




Dr. J. J. Mills. 



TOWN (^F DEER PARK. 207 

The Laurel Grove cenieter_\- is situated in the extreme southeastern 
part of Port Jervis. This was cstabhslied in 1856 ])y John ConkHn. who 
owned the site, and it is the modern cemetery now in use. It contains 
many fine monuments and the lots and drives are well kept. The name 
Laurel Grove was most appro])riate'y Ijestowed because of the thick natu- 
ral gfrowth of the American laurel on the ground. In 1857 the '\\'eeping 
Willow cemetery was begun in Port Jervis. This is St. John's burial 
ground next the Reformed church. Among other cemeteries are that of 
the Reformed church, started in 1833. the Catholic cemetery, also in Port 
Jervis, and the Rural \'alley cemetery in Cuddebackville, opened in 1867. 
In the ear]\- eighties the \\'eeping Willow cemetery was purchased by the 
village of i-'ort Jervis and converted into a site for a school building, the 
bodies being removed to other cemeteries. 

MIMTARY HISTORY. 

At the beginning of the brench war of 1775 there were only about 
thirty families within the present limits of Deer Park township. It was 
then divided int() u])j)er and lower neighborhoods. In the upper or north- 
ern i)art, near the ('Id count}- line, three small forts were built; one on the 
Neversink, another at the house of Peter Gumaer, and the third near the 
home of Peter Swartwout. There were also three forts in the lower 
neighborhood on the sor.th. 

It is believed, however, that most of the Indian occupants of this 
region had left before the ojDening of this bVench war. P.ut they returned 
in force when the Revolution began and attacked some of the early set- 
tlers in 1777. These attacks soon became more frequent and alarming, 
and the Committee of Safety was obliged to resort to very vigilant meth- 
ods in repelling th.e ferocious savages. Three other forts were built in 
the Peen|)ack section, and these were manned by soldiers known as the 
nine-months' men. Many of the women and children were sent out of the 
town to more safe quarters. About this time there were some fifty fami- 
lies in the town and thcv moved into the forts for protection. P)Ut the' 
settlement was attacked by a force of Indians and Tories about that time 
and afterward, and U'any were killed in the conflicts. Many of the houses 
and barns were burned and much of the crops were destroyed during the>~e 
Indian raids. 



2o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Many stirring incidents of those days are recorded, but much of this 
record is merely traditional and lacks authentic documentary evidence in 
its support. 

At the close of the war the people were practically in a destitute condi- 
tion, and it took them a long time, with the very meager facilities at hand, 
to reinstate themselves. Even the Continental paper currency had greatly 
depreciated in value, and it was necessary to build mills to make material 
for rebuilding their homes and barns. 

x\.t the opening of the Revolution Major John Decker was one of the 
most prominent citizens in the Minisink valley, and it is said that one of 
the objects of these Indian raids Avas to secure the scalp of Major 
Decker. They succeeded in burning his house to the ground and des- 
troyed all his property during his absence from home at night, driving out 
his family to sleep on the banks of the Neversink River, but they didn't 
get the Major's scalp, though he was wounded while riding his horse 
homeward, and barely escaped with his life b}' hiding in a cave. 

The Brandt raid of what was known as the lower neighborhood occurred 
in July, 1779. News of the atrocities perpetrated by the Mohawk chief 
and his savage followers was conveyed to Goshen, where a pursuing force 
of militia was organized by Colonels Tusten and Hathorn. They over- 
took Brandt at the ford of the Delaware at Lackawaxen, Pa., and in tlie 
sanguinar}' struggle which took place on the heights above Lackawaxen 
on the New York side of the river, the Indians were completely victorious. 
The force under Harhorn and Tusten was almost annihilated, but few 
escaping to tell the tale of the disaster. Of these men were Captain Abra- 
ham Cuddeback of Deer Park, and Daniel Meyers of Minisink, who is said 
to have killed more Indians than any other man during the engagement. 

The town took its full patriotic share in the struggle to save the Union 
of States. Dr. John Conklin presided at the first meeting of citizen^, 
April 18, 1861, and prompt measures were adopted. Nearly $1,000 was 
raised, and there were many donations for the soldiers and their families. 
The Ladies" Aid Society was formed with Mrs. PI. H. Farnum as presi- 
dent, in September, 1862, and this association of patriotic women for- 
warded suij'plies to the front amounting to $843.63. Under the call of 
President Liricoln tor 500.000 men in 1864 a tax of $48,600 was raised by 
the town to pay bounties for soldiers of $300 each. An additional tax 
of $155,300 was afterwards raised for a like purpose. 



TOWN OF DEER I'AKK. 



209 



The Deer Park roll of honor in that war numbers 428. Of these some 
forty-five lost their lives in the service of their country. 

In the Spanish-American war of 1898 eighty-two volunteers for service 
in Cuba were recruited in Port Jervis by Captain Benham and others 
under the auspices of Eafayette Post, G. A. R., of the city of New York. 
Of these, forty-four were attached to Company I of the Second U. S. 
Infantry ; thirty-five to the 42d U. S. Infantry, and the remainder entered 
the Artillery and Cavalry arms of the service. The recruits for this war 
came mainly from Port Jervis. but a few came from surrounding; districts. 

BONDED DEBT. 

Under the act of ^lay 4, 1868, the town of Deer Park was bonded for 
ib.e sum of $200,000 to aid in the construction of the Monticello and Port 
Jervis Railroad. These bonds drew 7% and ran thirty years to their 
maturity. In 1898 they were refunded at 4% and provision made for 
the gradual paMiient of the principal. There is now (1908) outstanding 
in these bonds Si6t,ooo. 

THE monticello R. R. 

The Monticello and Port Jervis Railroad Company was incorporated 
Sept. 3. 1808. It ran between Port Jervis and Monticello and opened for 
tratiic January 3, 1S71. It was sold in foreclosure July 8, 1875, and 
subsequently reorganized as the Port Jervis and ^lonticello Railroad Co. 
Its history has been a checkered one. It is now operated by the Ontario 
& Western Railroad as a part of its system. 

THE CITV of port JERVIS. 

Port Jervis had its beginning in 1826 when the building of the D. & 
H. Canal became a certainty. It was named in honor of John B. Jervis, 
of Rome, X. Y.. a distinguished civil engineer, who superintended the 
construction of the canal. As late as 1846 a writer thus describes Port 
Jervis : 

"It is a small village on the canal where it first approaches the Dela- 
ware. It is just above Carpenter's Point (Tri-States) and the junction 



2IO THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the Neversink and Delaware Rivers. It ovtes its population and its 
importance to its position about midway between Honesdale, Pa., and 
Kingston, N. Y., the two termmals of the D. & H. Canal. There are 
five stores in the village ; three taverns in spacious buildings ; one three- 
story grist mill, built by Dr. P3all, of Brooklyn, N. Y., being a stone build- 
ing with five run of stone in it ; three churches, a Dutch Reformed, Bap- 
tist, and Methodist, and one large school house. Coal and lumber are sold 
in considerable quantities. A mail route from Kingston, N. Y., to Mil- 
ford, Pa., and thence to Philadelphia, passes through the village." 

At this time the population of the village was small, and Port Jervis 
w^as equalled if not exceeded in importance by the neighboring hamlet 
of Carpenter's Point, where the post-ofifice was located and courts were 
held. 

The completion of the Erie Railroad to Port Jervis, January i, 1848, 
gave a wonderful impetus to its growth. The directors of the company 
celebrated the event by an official trip over the road from Piermont on the 
Hudson River, its eastern terminus, to Port Jervis, where the entire popu- 
lation of the surrounding country were gathered to celebrate their arrival. 
Cannon boomed and flags and bunting floated from every house top. A 
banquet was served at the hotel of Samuel Truex on the southwestern cor- 
ner of Pike and Main .streets, during which the president of the road, 
Benjamin Loder, made an address congratulating all concerned in the 
successful completion of the great enterprise as far as Port Jervis. The 
subsequent growth of the place w^as rapid. Its position as the headquar- 
ters of the Delaware division of the road and the terminus of its eastern 
division and the location here of extensive machine and car shops gave it 
a large railroad population, which has been and still is the principal con- 
tributing element to its prosperitv. 

In 1853 the village was mcorporated and the first charter election was 
held in August following. The total village expenses for the first year 
was $1,350. Samuel Fowler was the first president. 

Port Jervis became a city by an act of the Legislature of the date of 
June 26, 1907, and at the first election under the city charter, held in the 
ensuing November, the following city officials were elected : Mayor, Dr. 
H. B. Swartwout ; aldermen, Joseph Johnson (at large), F. N. Mason, 
Andrew Hensel, A. F. Brown. P. C. Rutan, C. F. Van Inwegen, Thomas 
Mulhearn. fanies Mowell an.: fames I. Delanev. The first five named are 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 211 

republicans, the others democrats. The following appointments were 
made by the Common Council : City clerk, A. P. Altemeier ; city engi- 
neer, Irving Righter; commissioner of charters, John M. Snook; superin- 
tendent of streets and sewers, Theodore Ludlum ; chief of police, William 
Wilkin. Supervisors from the four warils were elected as follows: First 
W'ard, S. S. Garriss, dem. ; Second Ward, Henry Farnum, rep. ; Third 
Ward, J. J. Toth, rep. ; Fourth Ward, J. P. Gillen, dem. 

The population of F*ort jervis in 1907, according to the census of the 
State excise department, taken in that year for the purpose of furnishing 
a basis upon which to adjust license rates, was 10,035. 1^"^ as the census 
was not intended to be exhaustive and practically stopped when the 10,000 
limit was reached, leaving certain sections uncounted, it is fair to presume 
that tiie actual population was considerably in excess of the figure named. 

The assessed valuation of the city of Port Jervis for the year 1907 was 
$2,000,000; for the town of Deer Park about $500,000. 

The city has eighty-two industrial establishments including the car and 
machine shops of the Erie Railroad, employing over 1,000 operatives. 
Tlie principal manufactured commodities are saws, glassware, silk, gloves 
and mittens, shirt and ladies' collars. These industries give employment 
to many skilled operatives who receive good wages. The city has three 
hardware stores and two iron foundries. 

Among the important industries of Port Jervis is the Deer Park Brew- 
ery Co., located on Reservoir avenue. The company was organized in 
1902 with George F. Ott, of Philadelphia, as president. The plant of the 
insolvent Deer Park Brewery Co. was purchased and greatly improved 
and enlarged. 

STREET RAILROAD. 

The Port Jervis Electric Street Railway Company was organized in 
1895 with Flon. \y. C. Richardson, of Goshen, as the first president. The 
v.-ork of construction began November 15, 1897, and the road went into 
operation January 15, 1898. The road is now known as the Fort Jervis 
Electric Railroad Co. It has about 4 1/3 miles of track and runs three 
cars. 

BANKS. 

The oldest of the two banking establishments of this place, the National 
Bank of Port Jervis. was organized under the State law as the Bank of 



212 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Port Jervis, in March, 1853. Business was opened in the Delaware 
House. The original capital was $120,000, afterwards increased to $130,- 
000. Its first president was Thomas King, who served until his death in 
1857, when he was succeeded by H. H. Farnum, who served until his 
death in 1879. The late Charles St. John succeeded him and the late 
Francis Marvin became president in 1892 on the death of Mr. St. John.. 
The present incumbent of the office is W. L. Cuddeback. 

The heavy defalcation of the assistant cashier led to a reorganization 
of the institution in 1899 with Dr. W. L. Cuddeback as president. The 
last annual report, December 5, 1907, showed deposits amounting to 
$550,738.04. The present dividend rate is 7^ per cent, per annum. 

The First National Bank was organized in 1870 with a capital of $100,- 
000. Jacob Hornbeck was the first president. The late Martin C. Everett 
succeeded him. The present head of this prosperous institution is Chas. 
F. Van Inwegen. Its last report, on December 3, 1907, showed total de- 
posits of $1,001,621.46. The stock pays 16 per cent, dividends to stock- 
holders. 

The Port Jervis Savings Bank, organized under the State law, began 
business in March, 1870, with Eli V^an Inwegen as president. It discon- 
tinued business in the later seventies. 

THE POST-OFFICE. 

The post-office was removed from Carpenter's Point to Port Jervis in 
1829, and John Slauson was the postmaster. He was succeeded by Dr. 
John Conklin in 1833, followed by Dr. Charles Hardenburgh in 1845, who 
was soon displaced by Thomas J. Lyon. Then came Dr. Conklin again in 
1849, Francis Marvin in 185 1, Thomas J. Lyon again in 1853, James 
Van Fleet in 1855, George Brodhead in 1857, Augustus E. Goodale in 
1861, Charles St. John, Jr., in 1879, Benjamin Ryall in 1885, Stephen St. 
John in 1889; George A. Elston in 1893; S. D. Boyce in 1897. Mr. 
Boyce still (in 1908) continues in office. 

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

The Port Jervis fire department was long regarded among the best in 
the State outside the largfe cities, and few destructive fires were ever 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 213 

allowed to g-ain much headway. The introduction of the water-works 
system gave ample hydrant pressure to cope with any conflagration, and 
the old hand engines were long since abandoned. There are seven differ- 
ent fire companies with a force of considerably over 200 effective fire 
fighters. The equipment included a steamer and hook and ladder appa- 
ratus. P. C. Rutan is chief engineer of the department. 

pour JERVIS FREE LICRARV. 

In 1892 was organized the Port Jervis Free Library, with \V. L. Cudde- 
back, W. H. Nearpass, Maria B. Van Ellen, Alinnie C. Brox and E. H. 
Gordon, trustees. This board has continued in charge of the library until 
the present time except that, in 1896, Mrs. Brox resigned and was suc- 
ceeded by Mrs. M. I. Coonrod. In 1901 a gift of $20,000 was received 
from Mr. Carnegie for the construction of a library building, which was 
subsequ.ently increased to $30,ocjo, and with this fund a large, handsome, 
commodious building was constructed on Pike street hill on a site given 
by Peter E. Farnum. The building is constructed of light colored pressed 
brick with native blue stone trimmings. It will house 40,000 volumes. 
The number at present on the shelves is 15,000; added during the year 
1907 by purchase, 1,062 ; the number lent for home use during the current 
year, 33,706. It is rich in encyclopedias and valuable works of reference, 
including the Congressional Record and Globe, and reports of the depart- 
ments of the Federal and State governments. The valuable collection of 
books and documents of the ^^linisink \'alley Historical Society is also 
housed in this building, a separate room on the second floor having been 
set apart for the acconmiodation thereof. This building contains two 
spacious, well equipped reading rooms, in which may be found all the 
leading reviews, magazines, and weekly periodicals, with complete files of 
many of them handsomely bound and ranged about the walls for con- 
venient reference. 

The preseiit librarian is Miss Elizabeth G. Thorne; assistants, Miss 
Charlotte Nearpass and Miss Anna G. Wells. 

SEWERS. 

Port Jervis has an excellent system of public sewers, established in 1891 
at a cost of about $85,000. for which the bonds of the village were issued. 
The original sewer commissioners were Francis Marvin, L. E. Carr, 



214 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

George Schoonover, W. A. Drake, M. D. Graham, with Ed. Whritner, 
clerk. Its establishment has resulted in a lowering of the death rate and a 
notable diminution in zymotic diseases within the city limits. 



CHURCHES. 

Port Jervis has eight churches, which in the order of their establish- 
ment are as follows : The Reformed Church of Deer Park, founded Au- 
gust 23, 1737, under the name of the Reformed Dutch Church of Machac- 
kemech ; Drew Methodist Episcopal CJmrch and the Baptist Church, both 
founded in 1838; First Presbyterian, incorporated July 15, 1851 ; Grace 
Episcopal Church, incorporated September 3, 1853 ! ^^^ Church of the 
Immaculate Conception, incorporated January 10, i860; German Lutheran 
Protestant, Port Jervis, incorporated January i, 1861 ; the Second Re- 
formed Church, whose house of worship on West Main street (in Ger- 
mantcwn), was dedicated November 29, 1896, with Rev. David T. Harris 
as pastor; the Church of Sacred Heart (in Germantown), whose hand- 
some church edifice of brick was dedicated in November, 1899, with Rev. 
B. J. Duffy, ordained in Rome, as first pastor. 

The colored people also have a church organization known as the JVick- 
ham A. U. M. P. Church, in honor of the late Dr. D. T. Wickham, the 
principal contributor to their church building. 

ST. Nr.NRY's HOME. 

A religious, educational and charitable institution of great merit and 
usefulness is St. Mary's Home, founded in 1871 by the late Rev. Father 
Nelan, its object being to provide a home for orphan children and to train 
and instruct them for a useful place in society. For over twenty years 
this institution has been in charge of Sister Theophelia, a woman whose 
motherly instincts and marked administrative abilities peculiarly fit her 
for this highly important work. 

MiyrSINK VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

An event of great importance to the residents of this town was the 
organization of the Minisink Valley Historical Society in 1888. Among 
the active promoters of this undertaking were Rev. Dr. S. W. Alills, 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 215 

Francis Marvin, Dr. JL.hn Conkling-, (J. P. llowcll, Dr. Sol \'an Ellen, 
C. E. and W. L. Cudckhack, W. H. Nearpass and C. F. Van Inwegen. 
It> collcclion of relics and manuscripts is large and of great value 10 the 
genealogist and historian. Its library numbers more than 1,500 volumes 
of books and pamphlets. Its manuscripts exceed 1,000 in number. With 
tlie facilities offered by its new home in the Carnegie J^ibrary building 
and protection and safety provided by its fireproof vaults, it will in time 
become the repository of all valuable documents and manuscripts in this 
vicinity. 

OLD BURYING GROUXD RESTORED. 

During the summer of 1007 a notable work was accomplished by the 
Machackemech Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, of 
which Mrs. Charles F. \'an Inwegen is the president, in clearing and 
beautifying the grounds of the old historic Machackcmech cemetery on 
East Main street next to the Catholic cemetery. Through long neglect 
the cemetery had tallen into a condition of utter decay and ruin. The 
ground was covered with a dense growth of weeds, briars and under- 
brush,, and the memorial stones, some of them dating back to a period 
anterior to the Revolution, were for the most part so weather beaten and 
mossgrown that their inscription was difficult to decipher, in some cases 
were totally illegible. All this has been changed, and now this hallowed 
ground "Where the rude forefathers of the hamlet sleep" has been re- 
stored to order and beauty and no longer offends by its wild and neglected 
appearance. 

SOLIMEl^s" MOXL'MENT. 

.■\ conspicuous ornament to the public square of the city (Orange 
Square ) is the soldiers' monument, erected in 1886 tlirough the liberahty 
and public spirit of Diana Farnum, wido\v of FI. H. Farnum, whose gift 
of $10,000 defrayed the cost thereof. It commemorates the valor and 
patriotism of the soldiers from Deer Park who took i)art in the great 
struggle for the preservation of the Union in 1S61-5. It was unveiled to 
the jMihlic on July 4, 1886, in the presence of a va^t multitude of spectators. 
L. F. Carr, Esq., of Port Jervis, and General Stewart L. Woodford, of 
Brooklyn, X. Y. were the orators of the occasion. The ceremonies were 
in charge of Carroll Post. G. A. R.. of Port lervis. 



2i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

FLOODS IN PORT JERVIS. 

The situation of Port Jervis near the confluence of the Delaware and 
Neversink Rivers exposes its low-lying parts to occasional overflows of 
these streams in times of heavy rainfall and more epecially during- the 
break-up of ice at the end of the winter season. 

The channel of the Delaware at this place is shallow and obstructed by 
rapids and islands against which descending masses of ice become lodged, 
damming back the water and producing what is known as an ice-gorge. 
Sucli an event occurred in the latter part of February, 1875, when the 
channel of the river for several miles in extent was filled with a gigantic 
accumulation of broken ice. For several weeks the village was threat- 
ened v.'hh inundation and various unsuccessful expedients were resorted 
to to start the ice moving. The excitement culminated on j\Iarch 17, 
when the "gorge" gave way, carrying with it the iron railroad bridge 
across the Delaware above Sparrowbush, which in descending the stream 
on top of the moving ice, struck and swept away the E>arrett suspension 
bridge at Port Jervis. For a short time just before the break-up of the 
"gorge" the lower part of the village as far as the Erie tracks was flooded 
with water. 

On October 10, 1903, a ten-inch rainfall in forty hours caused both 
rivers to overflow their banks, submerging the low-lying parts of the 
town. Barrett bridge across the Delaware w^as again carried away, and 
five persons who were on it at the time lost their lives. 

On March 8, 1904, a flood caused by an ice gorge destroyed the iron 
railroad bridge across the Delaware at this place and the suspension 
bridge across the Neversink. The lower section, of the village was sub- 
merged to a depth of three feet and the portion across the Erie tracks to 
a depth of from seven to ten feet. 

This succession of disasters emphasized the necessity for protective 
measures of some kind, and the matter was taken in hand by the village 
Board of Trade, as a result of whose deliberations a bill was presented and 
passed at the ensuing session of the Legislature, appropriating the sum 
of $35,000 for dyking the Delaware at Port Jervis. This money was used 
to excellent purpose and a substantial dyke was built under the direction 
of the State engineer, extending from the upper part of Germantown to 
Barrett bridge. To aftord the needed protection, however, this work 



TOWN OF DEER PARK. 217 

should be extended dow n ib.e river bank lo Laurel Grove cemetery. Bills 
for the necessary appro])riation have been introduced at the successive 
sessions of the Legislature, but for various reasons have failed to pass. A 
more fortunate issue is expected from the one introduced by Senator 
Taylor at the present session. Another State appropriation of $10,000 
was spent in strengthening- and clearing the channel of the Clove Brook 
at Tri-States and a pumping station has been established at the foot of 
Wagner Place, by means of which accumulated surface water is drained 
off in times of flood. An effort is also being made through Representa- 
tive Thos. W. Bradle\- to secure the aid of the Federal government in 
clearing and deepening the channel of the Delaware and removing ob- 
structions from Storm Island, about a mile below the city. 

CANAL ABAXDOXED. 

Tiie canal of the Delaware & Hudson Company v.as abandoned in 1878. 
Samuel D. Coykendall, of Kingston, purchased the right of way, and sold 
it to the Pennsylvania Coal Company, by whom a coal carrying road from 
the anthracite field to tide water along the old canal route was projected. 
The enterprise was defeated by the purchase by the Erie Railroad Com- 
pany of the stock of the Pennsylvania Coal Company, which carried with 
it ownership and control of the old right of way and blocked threatened 
competition in the carriage of coal to tide water. 

ERIE CHAXGES. 

In the spring of 1890 the Erie removed its passenger station from the 
foot of Pike street to the Brown building in Jersey avenue, near its junc- 
tion with Fowler street. This building was remodeled and enlarged and 
made over into one of the finest depots along the line of the Erie road. It 
was destroyed by fire on Christmas night x)f the same year and the pres- 
ent handsome structure erected on its site. 

On Easter Sunday, 1905, the company transferred the headquarters of 
the principal Delaware division official from Port Jervis to Susquehaima. 
This involved the removal of tbirt\- officials and assistants, including the 
superintendent, trainmaster, division engineer, division phmibcr. and 
division carpenter. 



2i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

GOOD ROAOS. 

This section will benefit by the good roads movement lately adopted 
by the St?te, and Port Jervis may naturally expect considerable increase 
of trade and perhaps of population from the three State roads now in 
process of construction which converge in this city. One of these begins 
in Middletovvn, passes through Wawayanda and Greenville and comes 
out upon the road leading from Tappentown to Tri States. Another 
starts from Middletown and passes through Otisville and Cuddebackville, 
taking at the last named place the old road pronounced by the State in- 
spector to be one of the finest in the State. A thinl leads from the Sulli- 
van County line at Rio on the west to Port Jervis. 

CITV IMPROVE.MENTS. 

The year just passed has witnessed the organization of a City Improve- 
ment Association composed of ladies, the object of wbich is sufficiently 
indicated by its name. It has an active corps of officers and members ani- 
mated by a praiseworthy spirit of civic pride. Mrs. Alaria B. Van Etten 
is tlie president. 

PLACES OF SPECIAL NOTE. 

Tri-States Rock, situated at the confluence of the Delaware and Never- 
sink Rivers, at which the boundary lines of three States — New York, 
Pennsylvania and New Jerse}' — intersect, is one of the sliow places of 
the town. The rock is at the extreme point of the narrow tongue of land 
Iving between the two rivers and at the mouth of the Neversink. The 
geological formation is rocky and will stand the wear of the floods for 
centuries to come as it has for centuries past. A small monument now 
marks the spot. 

The site of the old Dutch church on the Van Inwegen land directly 
opposite the old Machackemech cemetery on Main street is suggestive 
of historic memories. Plere assembled for worship in the old log "meet- 
ing house" of 1743 the pioneer families of this section. The house was 
burned by Brandt and his savages in the historic raid of July, 1779. 

The Van Etten schoolhouse. from which the teacher, Jeremiah Van 
Auken, was taken out and cruellv murdered in the same raid, was located 



TOWX OF DEER PARK. 219 

on the old Levi \'an Etten farm, afterwards owned by Mark Van Ellen, 
on tb.e ea^L side ot the Xeversink River about one-fourth of a mile north 
of f'dack Rock cut on the Erie. 

The forts mentioned in the early annals gather about themselves most 
of the tiadilions of Indian attack. In the upper neighborhood there was 
one at the house of Jacob Rutsen DeWitt. This was near Cuddebackville, 
on tlie west side of the NcAcrsink. Another fort was at the Gumaer place, 
now the Godeffroy estate. The old stone building- is still standing and in 
excellent preservation. 

In the accounts of incidents occurring during the old French War, it is 
staled ihat on one occasion the Indians lay in ambush "to take the lower 
fcrt at ]\Ir. Westfall's." This was probably the old stone house at Ger- 
mantown. A local writer says: "The present structure, rebuilt in 1793, 
occupied the site of a fort or blockhouse built anterior to the Revolution 
and occupied as a dwelling and trading post by a family o^" the name of 
llaynes, who carried on a thriving trade with the Indians for many years. 
Captain Westfall, who married one of Mr. Haynes's daughters, lived in 
the house during the Brandt invasion of 1779. He was away on a scouting 
expedition at the time, and a trusty negro buried the valuables and assisted 
tlie escape of the captain's wife to the high liills of the Jersey shore near 
Carpenter's point. 

It is said that Brandt's expedition first attacked "the fort at Major 
Decker's." This was on the old George Cuddeback place on the east side 
of the Neversink River, about three miles from Port Jervis. Another 
fort was near the residence of the late James D. Swartwout. .Still an- 
other is mentioned by Peter E. Gumaer "at the house of Peter Coykendall, 
in the present village of Port Tervis." 



220 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XVL 

TOWN OF GOSHEN. 

By George F. Gregg. 

NORTHWEST, sixty miles by rail from New York City, sixteen 
miles in an air line west from the Hudson River, lies Goshen, the 
county seat of Orange County, located in the geographical center 
of that civic sub-division. The town derives its name from the Goshen of 
Biblical memory. Almost two centuries ago the first of the settlers came. 
The native beauty of the place appealed to the calm and dauntless spirits 
of these men, who had plunged boldly into a benighted and unknown 
country. They stood upon the wooded hills and looked with glad eyes 
upon the fertile, fruitful valley. All around about them lay the land of 
their desire, and they called it Goshen, the "promised land" of the Scrip- 
tures. 

The town, which was first known by this name in 1714, was originally 
much larger than at present. Its boundaries were defined by law in 1788. 
A part of Hamptonburgh was taken from it in 1830, and a part of Chester 
in 1845. Other changes of boundaries were made at dift'erent times, as 
recited elsewhere in this article. It has a population to-day in town and 
village slightly in excess of 5,000. 

The section is known for the great fertility of its soil It is in the 
heart of a noted dairying country, and as long ago as Revolutionary 
days Goshen butter was widely famed. Butter making has practically 
ceased now, but the milk production is large. The town is also noted for 
the onions and celery raised on its black dirt meadows, as well as for the 
grass crops grown on its fertile farms. 

The village is located on the main line of the Erie Railroad, and has 
direct connection with New England cities by way of the N. Y.. N. H. 
& H. R. R. It is also the terminus of the Montgomery & Erie, the Goshen 
& Deckertown, and the Lehigh & New England Railroads. It is hand- 
somely laid out with broad, well-kept and well-shaded streets of smooth 
macadam. It has three public school buildings, and Garr Institute, a 
parochial school, conducted under the direction of St. John,'s Church. It 




George F. Gregg. 



TOWN OF GOSHEN. 221 

has six churches: The First Presbyterian, organized in 1720; St. James's 
Episcopal, dating- back to 1796; St. John the EvangeHst, Roman Cathohc, 
founded in 1820; the Methodist Episcopal, organized in 1847; the A. U. 
M. P. Church, and OHvet Chapel, a Presbyterian colored mission. It has 
two national banks and a savings bank, two newspapers, gas and electric 
lighting companies, a waterworks system, and first-class hotels and clubs. 
Its fire department is made up of three volunteer companies, Cataract 
Engine and Hose, organized in 1843; Dikeman Hose, organized in 1872, 
and Minisink Plook and Ladder, organized in 1906, upon the disbanding 
of Elliott H, and L, which was organized in 1871. Leading to the vil- 
lage from almost every direction are improved roads, maintained under 
State supervision. 

No mention of the town, past or present, would be complete, without 
reference to the trotting-horse industry. It began in 1803, when Imp. 
iMessenger, acknowledged head of the trotting family, stood at Goshen. 
Down through all the years trotting horses were bred and raised there, 
and even in this day and generation the horse interests are chief among 
the interests of the town. In the center of the village is located the 
finest half-mile track in the country and many famous horses are trained 
there. 

Every foot of its ground is historic. In the far-gone years red men 
roamed its landscape and predatory beasts lurked in the shadows of its 
primeval timber lands. It was one of the early settlements made on that 
vast tract to which Governor Nicolls referred when he wrote in 1664: 
"The lands which I intend shall be first planted are those upon the west 
bank of Hudson's River." Shortly after the first settlement a bounty 
was placed on wolves and the Governor recommended its payment to the 
House of Lords. Chapter 302 of the laws of 171 5. was an act for the 
destroying of wolves in this section. This act expired July 21. 1717, and 
on October 29, 1742, the General Assembly found it necessary to pass a 
law placing a bounty of a shilling and sixpence on "wolves, whelps anfl 
panthers." 

Noah Webster, of dictionary renown, taught the first academy in 
Goshen. Dewitt Clinton- attended school there, and William H. Seward 
studied law in the ofiice of Judge Duer. The first newspaper of the 
county. The Goshen Repository, was published at Goshen in 1788, by 
David Mandeville. 



222 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

In the article which follows, the writer has endeavored to furnish a 
concise history in limited space. As nearly as possible, events are set 
down in chronological order. Much of interest concerning the town that 
is based only upon tradition is left out and the space devoted to his- 
torical facts that can be authenticated and verified by records, maps, 
parchments and the writings of earlier and wiser men. 

The County of Orange dates its existence by legal enactment from 
October i, 1691, in the third year of the reign of King William and Queen 
Mary, and in the administration of Henry Sloughter, Esq., Governor. 
The First Assembly convened the 9th of April that year. On October 
I it passed an act. Chapter 17, entitled "An Act to divide the province 
and dependencies into shires and counties." Section VH of this act pro- 
vided : "The County of Orange to begin from the limits or bounds of 
East and West Jersey, on the west side of Hudson's River, along the 
said river to the Murderer's Creek, or bounds of the County of Ulster ; 
and westward into the woods as far as the Delaware River." 

Chapter 94, which became a law October 18, 1701, added to the lands 
embraced in the county those of "Wagachemeck and Great and Little 
Minisinck." 

On November 12, 1709, during the administration of Richard In- 
goldsby, Esq., Lieutenant-Governor, the Eighth Assembly passed an act, 
Chapter, 202, "to determine, settle and ascertain the bounds and limits 
of the County of Orange." This act repealed the clause added by Chapter 
94, and fixed the bounds as follows : "That the County of Orange shall 
extend from the limits and confines of the Province of New Jersey on 
the west side of Hudson's River, along the said river to the line of the 
County of Ulster, and westward so far as the Delaware River." 

The county derives its name from the Prince of Orange, who mar- 
ried Mary, and came to the throne in 1689, under the name of King 
William. 

Goshen is a part of the tract known as the Wawayanda Patent, ac- 
quired of the red men by John Bridges & Company, on March 5, 1703, 
and confirmed by royal decree of Queen Anne. Twelve Indian sachems 
conveyed the land. They were Rapingonick, Wawastawa, Moghopuck. 
Comelawaw, Nanawitt, Arawinack, Rombout, Glaus, Chouckhass, Ching- 
apaw, Oshasquememus and Quilapaw. The patent was granted April 29. 
There were twelve patentees, namely, John Bridges, LL.D.. Hendrick 



TOWX OF GOSHEN. 223 

Tenyck. Derrick X'anderbur.^h, ji)lin Choiwcll, Christopher Dciin, Lan- 
caster Syms, Daniel Herran. PhiHp Rockeby, John iMeredith, Benjamin 
Aske, I'eter Matthews, anJ Christian Christianse. The grant was sup- 
posed to contain 60,000 acres, but surveys later showed that it contained 
nearly 160,000. These twelve patentees held the land in common until 
1706. when it was divided into twelve parts. Only eight of the original 
shareholders retained their interests at that time, Bridges having died in 
1704. and others having transferred their holdings. 

The tract was unoccupied until 1712, when Christopher Denn made 
settlement upon it, to be followed shortly by Benjamin Aske; Daniel 
Cromline, who became a shareholder in 1704; Christian Snedeker, of 
Long Island ; Samuel Staats, who came into record as a thirteenth 
shareholder in 1713; and John Everett and Samuel Clowes, who in 1714, 
acquired a tract equal to four of the thirteen shares. The township of 
Goshen came that year, and the precinct of Goshen, comprising the out- 
lying settlements came later, and remained until 1788 when the town- 
ship was expanded to take its place. 

In 1 712, Christopher Denn, a carpenter by trade and resident of Xew 
York City, ])aid a visit to the patent and determined to make a settlement 
upon it. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were childless, but had adopted 
an orphan girl, Sarah Wells. 

Denn selected a spot along the Olterkill, as it is now known, alwut two 
miles or more from the present village. He returned to Xew York, 
equipped an expedition, which he sent up the Hudson River in charge of 
his adopted daughter, accompanied by two white men and some Indians 
whom he had taken to Xew York when returning from his first visit. A 
raft was used for the voyage and a landing safely made near Cornwall. 
The journey to the spot selected by Denn was through a trackless forest, 
but was made without mishap and a rough cabin was built. After the 
starting of the expedition Denn was remorseful because he sent the girl 
into unknown dangers, and within a short time he started for the new 
settlement, with his wife. The journey was made on horseback. They 
arrived safely and took up permanent residence there. 

It appears from an old map that Denn's share of the patent was a 
triangular tract, containing about 2,000 acres. The presence of this 
family soon brought other settlers and the woodman's axe resounded 
far and near. The merciless push of immigration began and the native 



224 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

red men were driven further into the wilderness. In the course of a few 
years Sarah Wells became the wife of William Bull, of Wolverhampton, 
England, who came to this country and was employed by Daniel Crom- 
line in 1716 to build the masonry of a dwelling', later known to fame for 
nearly a century as the Greycourt House. History records this as the 
first marriage within the limits of the town of Goshen. 

The lands in the vicinity of the present village were settled to some 
extent soon after Denn's arrival. There were on record deeds showing 
the conveyance of lots in the village in 1714. On July 10, 1721, a deed 
in trust was made to John Yelverton by John Everett, John Carpenter, 
John Gale, William Ludlum, Nathaniel Higby, John Carpenter, Jr., G. 
McNish, James Sandys, Thomas Watson, Hope Rodes, John Holly, James 
Jackson, Isaac Finch, Solomon Carpenter, John Beers, Michael Dunning, 
Samuel Seely, John Nichols, William Jackson, Alexander Moore, John 
Knapp, Samuel Webb, John Alsop and Richard Halsted, setting forth that 
a conveyance had been ''lately" made to John Everett and Samuel Clowes, 
giving them one-sixth part of all the lands for the purpose of laying out 
a township, establishing a church and settling a minister. 

The Goshen Presbyterian Church was organized in 1720, and Rev. John 
Bradner, to whom more extended reference is made later in this article, 
became its pastor in 1721. Two hundred acres of land were deeded to 
him on April 17, 1722, and recorded at the request of his widow on April 
8, 1742. In 1724 the erection of a house of worship was begun on the 
spot where now stands the court house. The first court was convened 
in Goshen in 1727, and on December 16, of that year an act was passed 
providing for the building of a court house and jail, which were erected 
and completed in 1740, on the site of the present Orange Hotel. On 
October 24, 1754, the General Assembly appropriated 100 pounds for an 
addition to it, and in 1775 it was demolished and a new one built at a 
point where now stands the county clerk's office. The arms of King 
George HI were placed upon its front, but were torn down by indignant 
citizens. 

A schoolhouse was built in 1801 on the church plot, the same spot 
where the public school building on Greenwich street now stands. Here 
Noah Webster taught for a time before he published his first dictionary 
in 1806. 

Goshen, after its original settlement, soon became the most important 



t: 






-.^ 



TOWN OF GOSHEN. 225 

and populous district of the county, and a clii'~u> laken in 1738 showed a 
total of 319 males above the age of ten. These were stirring times for 
the people and most of the affairs were of a warlike nature. There was 
frequent trouble with the Indians. The frontier was only four miles 
away. Block houses were built at Dolsontown and Scotchtown, and tra- 
dition has it that a block house once stood back of the present race course 
on the property known to-day as the Parkway Farm. In those days the 
settlers west of the Wallkill made Goshen their rendezvous when Indian 
raids were feared. 

In the reign of George II, when Hon. George Clinton was Governor, 
the General Assembly passed an act to enable the inhabitants of Goshen 
in the County of Orange to elect two additional constables. This act ex- 
plaineil that the inhabitants of the Precinct of Goshen had liberty to elect 
only one constable and as the precinct had considerably increased in num- 
bers of inhabitants and settlements, it was necesssary that an increased 
number be elected. The act was passed December 17, 1743, and provided 
that one of the constables "be elected and chosen from and out of such of 
the inhabitants as have habitations in the south part of Goshen, commonly 
called Wawayanda. and the other from and out of such of the inhabitants 
as have habitations northward near the meeting house, commonly called 
the ^^'ater-Side Meeting House. 

On September 21. 1744, the General Assembly passed an act to author- 
ize justices of the peace in the counties of Dutchess and Orange to "'direct 
so many constables and overseers of the highways to be chosen, in the sev- 
eral precincts as to them shall seem meet." On the same day an act was 
passed for the relief of the poor in the counties of Orange and Sufifolk. 

Covenant Chain Treaty. 

During these years the settlers had as allies two tribes of Indians, some- 
times known as the Cashigton Indians, whose principal lodges were lo- 
cated near where now stands the village of Cochecton in Sullivan County, 
They formed a part of the Lenni Lenape, or Delaware Confederacy, once 
powerful, but at that time reduced in numbers. From time immemorial 
Western Orange had been their hunting ground, but late in the year 1744 
they showed signs of distrust and retired to their lodges on the upper 
Delaware. Tlie colonists were loath to lose these faithful allies, for their 



226 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

withdrawal left the outlying settlements on the frontiers exposed to attack 
of hostile savages, incited to rapine and murder by the French. 

The attention of the Colonial Government was called to this matter and 
Colonel DeKay was ordered to take a party and visit the Indians in the 
hope that friendly relations might be restored and the redmen induced to 
return to their old hunting grounds. As a result of this visit the Indian 
Treaty of Orange County was enacted and the ceremony of the Covenant 
Chain performed at Goshen. Colonel Thomas DeKay took wdth him, 
upon this expedition, Major Swartout, Ensign Coleman, Adam Weisner, 
who acted as interpreter, Benjamin Thompson, and two Minisink Indians 
as guides. The pilgrimage was made in the depth of winter. The Indians 
were found and agreed to come back, claiming that they left because they 
were afraid of the people of Orange County, who were always under 
arms. When it was explained that this was by order of the Governor and 
for protection against the French and their allies, the Indians rejoiced. 
They explained that they were of two tribes, using for totems the signs of 
TVEinsi, or Wolf, and Uralachtgo, or Turkey, and that their sachem had 
recently died. They were about to choose a new sachem to govern all, and 
they promised that when he had been chosen they would send representa- 
tives to make a treaty. New Year's Day was fixed upon as the date. 

On January 3, 1745, two days late, the Wolves and Turkeys, a dozen 
of the head men in all, led by the new sachem, came into the village of 
Goshen and marched in savage bravery up its maui street. Just where 
the ceremony took place is unknown, but the old manuscript record says 
that the weather was severe, and it is probable that the meeting was held 
in the rude court house. The Indians by their spokesman explained 
that they had brought a Belt of Wampum that friendship and brother- 
hood might be restored. They asked that some one be appointed to enact 
with them the ceremony of the Covenant Chain. 

Colonel DeKay informed them that the Governor alone had power to 
make such an appointment and that as there was not time to communicate 
with him. it would be best for the Indians to select a man. They chose the 
colonel and he was then chained to them for an hour or more as a token 
of their being united again in the bonds of friendship. Speeches were 
made by the Indians and they solemnly pledged themselves to be true "as 
long as the sun and moon endured," and promised to send in runners at 
once if they learned of any plot? against the English. They also agreed 




James Edward Wells. 



TOWN OF GOSHEX. 227 

to join in fighting the enemy and asked that aid be given them in case of 
attack by the French. This was freely promised and while the Colonel 
was still chained to the Indians they gave him the Belt of Wampum to 
be sent to the Governor. The Indians, according to the record, 'again 
rejoiced with three huzzas and departed very much pleased." The Belt 
of Wampum, so states the books of the Lords of Trade and Plantations 
in London, was taken to the Colonial Council in New York by Colonel 
DeKay a fortnight later and delivered to the Council, which in turn 
sent it to the Governor, who recommended that one be given in return 
to the Indians. This was the only occasion on record when the ceremony 
of the Covenant Chain was enacted in Orange County. 

On April 18, 1748, an act was passed by the General Assembly providing 
that "for the time to come, all elections of representatives of the County 
of Orange to serve in the present or any future General Assembly shall 
begin and be first opened at the court house in Orange Town, or at the 
court house or some other convenient place in the town of Goshen." 

About this time settlers who had dealings with the sheriff began to 
find considerable fault with the manner in which mileage charges were 
computed. On April 8, 1748, an act was passed providing that for all 
writs and process papers served on inhabitants on the north side of the 
mountain range called the Highlands, mileage should be computed by the 
sheriff from the court house in Goshen, and for all papers served on 
the south side from the court house in Orange Town. The preamble 
to this act fully explained the situation. It stated : "Whereas the County 
of Orange is very extensive in length, and by reason of a ridge of moun- 
tains across the same, and for the better accommodation of inhabitants, 
it was found necessary to have two court houses, the one at Goshen on 
the north, and the other at Orange Town on the south thereof; yet by the 
sheriff' having his residence sometimes at the one and sometimes at the 
other extreme of the said county, the computation of his fees for mileage 
in the service of writs hath hitherto been made from the place of the 
sherift"s abode, which has been found to be very inconvenient and burden- 
some to the parties concerned." 

Military M.\tters. 

When the French and Indian War began in 1756 the men of Goshen 
were continually under arms. The old Journal of the Assembly relates 



228 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the services of Captain George DeKay as express between Goshen and 
Minisink. It mentions as his guards Peter Carter, David Benjamin, 
Philip Reid and Francis Armstrong. It tells also of the payment of 
nearly lOO pounds to Colonel Vincent Mathews for furnishing guides to 
regulars posted at Goshen from October, 1757, to February, 1758, and 
refers to the work of Colonels Clinton and DeKay in laying out block 
houses for the settlers' defense. Mention is also made of the payment 
of 56 pounds to Samuel Gale for provisions furnished troops on the 
frontiers near Goshen; and of reimbursing Colonel Benj. Tusten, Captain 
Daniel Case and Captain J. Bull for money advanced in building block 
houses Nos. i and 2 on the western frontier in January, 1757. 

In 1763, Lieutenant-Governor Cadwallader Golden appealed to the 
General Assembly for troops to relieve the militia on the borders of Or- 
ange and Ulster which were infested by the enemy. At this time the 
town of Goshen extended from the Hudson to New Jersey. In 1764 a bill 
was passed dividing the precinct of Goshen into two precincts, to be called 
Goshen and Cornwall. After this division Cornwall embraced the present 
towns of Cornwall, Monroe and Blooming Grove, while Goshen included 
the present town of Warwick. 

During the years prior to the Revolution when the colonists were 
growing desperate under the exactions of King George, patriotism and 
valor were manifested to a marked degree in Goshen. On June 8, 1775, 
over 360 men signed the Revolutionary pledge at Goshen and the name 
of Henry Wisner headed the list. The Reverend Nathan Ker, an ardent 
patriot, and the fourth pastor of the Goshen Presbyterian Church, who 
came to Goshen in the fall of 1766, and remained until his death, Decem- 
ber 14, 1804, on one occasion is said to have dismissed his congregation in 
the midst of a Sunday service to prepare food for a troop of horse that 
had halted on the way to Philadelphia. Once General George Washington, 
riding eastward on the Florida road towards his headquarters at New- 
burgh, stopped with his staff to chat awhile with the children at the old 
school house near the stone quarry. 

NOTABLE EARLY RESIDENTS. 

Many of the old families of Goshen to-day are descendants of the 
patriots who fought in the colonial service and whose names appear on 





J^. -^ 



-TiiZ,, -2,^' 



TOWN OF GOSHEN. 229 

the roster of the Goshen regiment at the battles of Long Island and White 
Plains, at the struggle in the Highlands, and the capture of I'ort Mont- 
gomery, as well as in the memorable slaughter of Minisink. 

The highway between Goshen and Florida, over whicli Washington 
rode, is a historic thoroughfare and in Revolutionary days was lined 
with the homes of famous men. Goshen was then the stronghold of the 
Whigs. In a stone house nearly opposite the present Sayer homestead, 
lived jMoses Hatfield, a captain, afterwards a major, in the Goshen regi- 
ment, who was taken prisoner at a night assault on what is now Randall's 
Island, on September 23, 1776, and was kept a captive until 1778. 

A little further along the way lived Henry Wisner, the elder. He 
and his son of the same name were makers of powder for the Continental 
Arniv at Phillipsburg, between the highway as it now stands and the 
grist mill near by. Traces of the old raceway and mill can si ill be seen. 
Another on the opposite side of the stream, and one at Craigville, oper- 
ated in conjunction with John Carpenter, were also erected by Henry 
Wisner. The Sons of the Revolution arranged some years ago to mark 
the site of the Phillipsburg powder mill by an historical tablet. 

Henry Wisner stood foremost among those who advocated the inde- 
pendence of the colonies. He represented Orange County in the Con- 
tmental Congress which declared that "these States are, and of right 
ought to be, free." His son Gabriel, hardly past his majority, was 
slain in the slaughter of Minisink. On the i6th of August, 1774. Henry 
Wisner was chosen as one of the delegates to represent Orange County 
in the Continental Congress held in Philadelphia in September of that 
year. The election was by the committee of the county held at the house 
of Stephen Slot and the purpose was for the delegate to attend at 
Philadelphia ''to consult on proper measures to be taken for procuring 
the redress of our grievances." 

A question was raised as to the regularity of this election and a meeting 
of the inhabitants of the precincts of Goshen and Cornwall was held at 
Chester on September 3, 1774, at which Henry Wisner was chosen to go 
to Philadelphia "in order to meet the rest of the delegates and consult on 
proper measures to be taken with respect to the claims made by the 
British Parliament of taxing America in all cases whatsoever." 

William Wickham was a prominent citizen of Goshen, and his attitude 
was one of extreme lovaltv to the crown. With other adherents of the 



230 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

king he attempted to set aside the election of Wisner. The correspon- 
dence, which still exists, shows that political feeling was very bitter. The 
scheme came to naught and Wisner took his seat. In April,. 1776, he was 
elected by a convention held at New York City, as a delegate to the 
Second Continental Congress in which he took part, leaving it for the 
purpose of manufacturing powder for Washington's tattered army. 

Mr. Wisner's signature may still be found in the list at Carpenter's 
Hall in Philadelphia. He continued in Congress until the memorable 2nd 
of July, 1776, when the "Resolution of Independency" was passed. He 
was heartily in favor of the measure and remained for the purpose of 
casting his vote for its final passage, had the Provincial Congress of New 
York given such instructions to its delegates. Tradition affirms that he 
actually did vote for the "independenc}-" that day. He was not present to 
sign the Declaration. He had proposed in Congress " a method for the 
manufacture of saltpetre and gunpowder" which had been approved, and 
in agreement with which he was requested or appointed to build works 
and prepare powder for the "Army of the North." To do this he left 
Philadelphia on the third of July and applied himself to the making of 
powder. For three years, and until his mill was burned and his fortune 
exhausted, he continued to supply powder to the American forts and thus 
beyond any man in the Continental Congress of 1776 contributed to his 
country's triumph. 

On the square at St. James' Place in the village of Goshen stands a 
monument of native Pochuck granite erected to the memory of Henry 
Wisner by his great granddaughter, Mrs. Frances Wisner Murray, widow 
of Ambrose Spencer Murray, of Goshen. The monument was dedicated 
on July 22, 1897, by Dr. John H. Thompson, who presided and Harrison 
W. Nenny, Esq., who made the dedicatory address. 

Adjoining the residence of Henry Wisner, and separated from it by 
what is now known as Steward's lane, was the home of John Steward, 
an ardent patriot. He was one of two brothers, John and Walter 
Stewart, or Steward, the name having been spelled both ways, who came 
from Ireland to New England about 1740. Walter settled in Rhode 
Island, where he started a snuff-mill and became the father of Gilbert 
Stuart, the noted portrait painter, whose unfinished picture of Washing- 
ton is the likeness that the world knows best to-day. Gilbert after reach- 
ing manhood, wrote his name Stuart, because by reason of the fact that 







'^lyu:^^^ 




( «. 



iUWX OF GOSHEX. 231 

his ancestry was by tradition connected with the Jacobite cause, he had a 
great admiration for '"IJonny Prince CharHe." 

The tradition was that, at the time of one of the early Jacobite ri>ings, 
a nur^e in charge of two yoiuig children appeared in IJeifast, Ireland. 
They came from Scotland and the woman immediately on arriving fell 
ill of small-pox and died refusing to tell an\ thing about the children 
except that their names were John and Walter Stewart, and that they 
w^ere the sons of a man of rank who would soon come for them. She had 
with her no money but some fine jewels, no one ever came to claim the 
children, but as it is recorded in history that some Jacobite families are 
known to have been exterminated in their bloody and unfortunate battles, 
this may have been the fate of the relatives of these boys, too \oung to 
tell anything about themselves. They were brought up by a man, appointed 
their guardian. He treated them harshly and as soon as grown they left 
him and came to try their fortune in a new land. John first acquired 
some property in Boston, which he left in his will to his son Xathan, but 
soon came to Goshen anil settled there, buying in 1744 eighty acres of 
land, "and the houses thereon" from William Jayne. From this it appears 
that the Steward house may have been erected previous to 1744, but 
"houses thereon" may have been a mere legal term, and the house was 
probably built by John Steward. It is certain, however, that it has been 
standing since 1744. He bought more land, about 120 acres in all, at a later 
date. To farming John Steward joined the occupation of blacksmith, 
erecting a little to the left of his house a forge, which was in operation 
as early as 1758, the family having still in their possession, a deed of sale 
bearing that date of a slave named Tite. warranted to be a goofl black- 
smith. Later at this forge, John Steward II, during the Revolutionary 
war made sabres and bayonets for the Continental Army. 

John Stew-ard I, married Elizabeth Bradner, the daughter of Rev. John 
Bradner, first settled clergyman in Goshen. As John Bradner was the 
father of nine children, viz., Calvin, John, Benoni, Gilbert, Susanna, Mary, 
Sarah, Christian and Elizabeth, and to him many families in Orange 
County trace their descent, the following may be thought worthy of 
record. When a young divinity student in Edinburgh. Scotland, John 
Bradner was employed by a gentleman callcfl Colvill, a Huguenot refugee, 
as a tutor to his sons. His daughter Christiana shared her brothers' 
studies and she and the tutor fell in love with each other, but Colvill 



232 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

thought the tutor no match for his daughter, and told her if she married 
him he would never speak to her again. She put love before duty and 
having married John Bradner they sailed for America. The voyage oc- 
cupied six months. Violent storms in which the ship nearly foundered 
were encountered. These Mrs. Bradner thought were sent by Heaven 
to punish her for her disregard of her father's wishes. Rev. John Brad- 
ner received the degree M.A. from the University of Edinburgh, February 
23rd, 1712, was licensed to preach March, 1714, ordained May 6, 171 5, 
pastor of Cold Spring Presbyterian Church, Cape May, N. J., before 
being called to the church in Goshen, 1721. He died 1732. His widow 
died 1759. She was well educated in the classics and assisted in pre- 
paring her son; Rev. Benoni, for Princeton College. He graduated 1755, 
was settled in Jamaica, L. I., 1760, and two years after was called to 
Church Nine Partners, Dutchess County. There is now in the possession 
of Mrs. M. H. C. Gardner, of IMiddletown, a piece of a quilt brought 
from Scotland by Mrs. John Bradner. The colors of the design,' birds, 
fruit and flowers, are as bright as though it was new. John Steward I 
had eight children and their mother used to relate with pride that never 
once during their infancy or childhood was she obliged by reason of the 
illness of one of them to strike a light during the night. John Steward 
I died in 1770, of a fever then epidemic. In his will he left to his widow, 
as long- as she remained his widow, the use of the best room and the 
"salon" room. The small adjoining room, now a store closet, was her 
prayer closet, where she used to retire to pray, as was the good custom of 
those times. 

Her eldest son, John Steward H, although holding no commission in 
the Continental Army was an ardent patriot, mention being made in 
Rivingt oil's Nciv York Gasefte, the Tory organ, that "rebellion in Orange 
County was continually fomented by those two firebrands, Squire Steward 
and Old Wisner, the latter being Henry Wisner, member of the Conti- 
nental Congress and John Steward's friend and neighbor. 

John Steward H, who was thirty years younger than Henry Wisner, 
was a justice of the peace, and a number of Hessian prisoners passing 
southward through Goshen, probably after the battle of Saratoga, were 
quartered over night at his house. The common soldiers slept in the barn, 
but the ofificers, of whom there were several, were accommodated in the 
house and on lea vine the next mornine told Mrs. Ste^^ ard that the coffee 




General Alfred Neafie. 



TOWX OF GOSHEN. 233 

made b}- her black cook \\a> the best they had tasted since leaving Ger- 
many. 

Jn a house that stood about lOO feel east of the present residence of 
Campbell Steward, Esq., lived General Reuben Hopkins, whose son, Hani- 
bal, married Elizabeth Steward, daughter of John Steward H. General 
Hopkins's portrait and his appointment as attorney-at-law dated 1771 and 
signed by Lord Dunmore, now hang on the walls of the Steward house, 
which contains other objects of interest, among which may be mentioned 
an original broadside of the Declaration of Independence addressed to 
John Steward, Esq., his commission as Major No. i of the regiment of 
militia in the County of Orange, signed by Geo. Clinton in 1798, and a 
bag of old counterfeit silver Spanish dollars. A band of counter- 
feiters was arrested in Orange County about the time of the Revolution 
and they were tried at Goshen, their judges, among whom was Judge 
Steward, keeping some of the coins as curiosities. In the house can also be 
seen' a small stone hammer presented to the wife of John Steward I, as a 
token of friendship by a member of a band of Indians who, at the tiine 
Steward settled in Goshen, and for some years after, lived in a hickory 
grove at the rear of his house. His family always made a point of main- 
taining friendly relations with their savage neighbors, and were never 
troubled by them, although once during the r>ench and Indian War on an 
alarm being given that Indians on the war path were approaching Goshen, 
the family fled to the cedar swamp. It is said that on leaving they looked 
back for what they feared might be a last look at their I'ouse. but the 
alarm proved a false one. Goshen was spared an Indian massacre and 
they returned to find their house still standing. The main body of the 
house, with some minor alterations, is the same to-day as it was in those 
old Indian days, its cedar shingles, oak beams and large stone chimneys 
seeming still sound and strong. The house being too small for modern 
requirements, two wings have been added at different times and the chim- 
ney tops rebuilt, but care has been taken to preserve as far as possible 
every antique feature of the house in its original condition. 

During Revolutionary days the inhabitants of Orange County were 
terrorized by the depredations of Claudius Smith, a notorious outlaw, and 
his gang of ruffians, who were known as cowboys. Smith was indicted 
on three charges, one of which was the murder of Major Strong. Re- 
wards were offered by Governor Clinton, and Smith was taken captive at 



234 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Smithtown, L. I., by Alajor Brush. He was given into the custody of Col- 
onel Isaac Nichol, sheriff of Orange County, and on January 22, 1779, was 
publicly executed at the west corner of church park in Goshen, with 
two other criminals, De La Alar, a burglar, and Gordon, a horse thief. 
On the gallows near the same spot forty years later two others were pub- 
licly put to death for murder. 

BATTLE OF MIXISIXK. 

On July 22, 1779, occurred the battle of Minisink, in which the Goshen 
regiment, under Colonel Tusten, met almost complete annihilation at the 
hands of nearly 500 Indians and Tories under Joseph Brant, the half- 
breed chieftain, who was known as Thayendanegea, the Scourge, and 
held a colonel's commission from George III. The Goshen regiment 
marched against Brant's forces to avenge a raid made by Brant upon the 
settlers near Minisink on the 20th of the month. They were joined by a 
small reinforcement, under Colonel Hathorn, of the Warwick regiment, 
and the latter assumed command. While marching along the west bank of 
the Delaware at nine o'clock on the morning of July 22, the Indians were 
discovered about three-quarters of a mile away and Colonel Hathorn has- 
tened his command in pursuit. Brant, taking advantage of intervening 
woods and hills made a detour which enabled him to gain the rear of the 
attacking party, and in the battle which followed the savages completely 
routed the small force that opposed them. The colonists had little ammu- 
nition and this was soon exhausted. A part of them fled, and more were 
killed in flight than in battle. Colonel Tusten, who was a skilful surgeon, 
dressed the wounds of his men, and refused to abandon them, staying on 
the field until he fell. Of the eighty men in the engagement, 44 were 
killed outright and others died later of their wounds. 

Colonel Benjamin Tusten, who was a physician and surgeon by profes- 
sion, came originally from Southold, L. I., in 1746, at the age of three 
years. His parents located on the banks of the Otterkill on the patent 
granted to Elizabeth Denn. His father, Benjamin Tusten, was appointed 
one of the judges of the courts of the county and also a colonel in the 
Orange County regiment of militia. The son, Benjamin, was sent to an 
academy at Jamaica, L. I., and at the age of nineteen returned to Goshen 
and studied medicine with Doctor Thomas Wiskham. He afterwards 




^yrC^^»!Ui^^, /^.(J^cJ^^/a^ 



TOWN OF GOSHEN. 235 

studied in Newark, N. ]., and New York City, returning in 1769 to prac- 
tice medicine in Goshen, where two other physicians, Doctor John Gale 
and Doctor Pierson, had ah'cady located. He was very successful and was 
widely known as a surgeon. He married Miss Brown, by whom he had 
two sons and three daughters. In 1777 he was appointed lieutenant 
colonel of the Goshen regiment of militia under General Allison, and in 
1778 was appointed surrogate of Orange Count)-, which office he hel<l 
when he lost his life at Alinisink. 

Captain John Wood, of Colonel Tuslen's regiment, was captured in the 
battle of Minisink, his life being spared by Brant, who in the thick of the 
battle, thought he saw Wood give a masonic sign. Wood was taken cap- 
tive and transported to Canada. He left a journal of events followinsi 
the battle wliich throws considerable light on the life and cliaractcr of 
Brant. 

On July 22, 1822, by the influence of Dr. David R. Arnt-ll. of Goshen, 
a monument was erected in the village to the memory of the men who fell 
at Minisink. It was set up over the bones of the patriots which had been 
gathered from the battlefield forty-three years after the massacre. On 
July 22. 1862. a more pretentious monument was dedicated and unveiled, 
provision for the cost of the same having been made in the will of Dr. 
]\Ierritt H. Cash, of ]\Iinisink. 

Goshen village was originally laid out in four lots of eighty acres each. 
Its original boundaries are not definitely known, as a disastrous fire in 1843 
destroyed the town clerk's office, burning up the map of the town and 
village lots, together with deeds dating from 1714. After these records 
had been destroyed a new charter was grameil on April 18. 1843. fixing 
the boundaries of the village, which remained under this charter until 
1878. when it was abandoned and the village reorganized under the gen- 
eral act. Goshen was incorporated a town on ]\Iarch 28, 1809. 

At one time Orange County embraced nearly all the southern part of 
New York, bordering on the Hudson River. Courts were then held at 
Orange Town, now in Rockland County. In 1827 they were removed to 
Goshen. In 1839 the board of supervisors made application to the 
Legislature to erect a new court house at Goshen. There was consider- 
able opposition from the southern end of the county, which was anxious 
to secure increased judicial conveniences. As a result, the Legislature 
eflfected a compromise, making Goshen and Newburgh joint capitals, and 



236 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in April, 1841, passed an act authorizing the building- of a court house 
and jail at Goshen and a court house and cells at Newburgh. 

IN THE CIVIL WAR. 

■ On July I, 1862, President Lincoln issued a call for 300,000 volunteers, 
and Governor Morgan appointed a military committee for Orange 
County. Hon. Ambrose S. Murray was the Goshen member. As a 
result of this call the 124th Regiment, afterwards famed as the '"Orange 
Blossoms" was organized. During the period of organization it was en- 
camped at Goshen, where Murray avenue is now located. Enlistments 
came rapidly and by August 2.'i^ it was ready for the field. 

The military committee recommended A. Van Home Ellis, of New 
Windsor, for colonel of the regiment and he accepted the commission. 
Henry S. Murray was made captain of Co. B, which was composed of 
Goshen men. On August 26, 1862, the regiment was presented with a 
stand of colors by the women of Orange County. Hon. Charles H. 
Winfield made the presentation speech. Afterwards, on behalf of the 
women of Wawayanda, Miss Charlotte E. Coulter presented the regiment 
with a pair of embroidered silk guidons. 

On- Friday, September 5, the regiment was mustered in and on the 
following day departed for the front. It fought in many engagements 
from Manassas Gap to Lee's surrender at Appomatox, and was dis- 
banded at Washington's headquarters in Newburgh, June 16, 1865, leav- 
ing a record of 208 service dead and 609 casualties in action. 

When the Civil War was at its height and drafts were necessary to 
supply the depleted ranks of the L'uion Army, one interesting incident 
took place at Goshen. The provost marshal general had ordered a draft 
for the Eleventh District, comprising the counties of Orange and Sulli- 
van, calling for 1,932 men, with 50% added, making a total of 2,898. This 
draft was to begin at Goshen on Wednesday morning, October 7, 1863. 
Trouble was feared by certain of the leading citizens, and they asked 
that troops be sent to the village to prevent rioting. Accordingly on 
Tuesday evening, October 6, the Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, imder 
Colonel Allen, arrived in town. The regiment, which originally numbered 
1,300, had been reduced by hard service to 450 men. They made their 
camp on the elevation which is now Prospect avenue, and during the 



- •^ 




' '' "^ i ;.*» 


% 




f 


•JTi/li. JSP 




^8 


L 




jpj^ 




^dn 


wK fW^K^^^^miak 


^^^^H 


Tm^m * ^^^^^^v ji^^^H 


^^H 


r 4JRI 


^1 


r '*^^*^Zi^ ^itu ^jiMKlKi 


HHIiHV 





^J 



Vu^^oay^ 



TOWN OF GOSHEN. 237 

night, trained their cannon to cover the points where crowds would 
gather in case of rioting. The drawing began on Wednesday and lasted 
until Saturtlay and there was no serious disorder. The names were 
(.Irawn from the wheel by Gabriel Coleman, an aged blind man of the 
village. Orange County's quota was 2,131, and Sullivan's 767. Goshen 
furnished 62, of whom three were colored men. 

A table of military statistics compiled just before the close of the 
war showed that Goshen had furnished men as follows at the Govern- 
ment's call: 30 men in 1861 ; 113 men in 1862; 104 men in 1S63; 51 men 
in 1864. 

On Thursday, September 5, 1907, there was dedicated at Goshen a 
monument to the service dead of the 124th Regiment. The monument, 
which weighs nineteen tons, is a bronze figure, "The Standard Bearer," 
designed by Theo. Alice Ruggles Kitson, a noted sculptress. The figure, 
eighteen feet in height, stands upon a pedestal of Stony Creek granite, 
fourteen feet high. The monument was presented to the people of 
Orange County by Hon. Thomas W. Bradley, of Walden, N. Y., Mem- 
ber of Congress from the Twentieth New York District, in memory of 
his comrades who died in the service of their country. Mr. Bradley en- 
listed as a private in the "Orange Blossoms," was promoted to captain, 
and breveted major for meritorious service, and was awarded the Con- 
gressional Medal of Honor for gallantry at Chancellorsville, May 3, 1863, 
when he volunteered in response to a call, and alone, in the face of a 
heavy fire of musketry and canister, went across the field of battle and 
procured ammunition for his comrades. 

The presentation was made by Colonel Charles H. Weygant. who com- 
manded the regiment after the commander, Colonel F. M. Cummins, fell 
wounded. It was accepted for the people by Mr. John J. E. Harrison, 
chairman of the board of supervisors, a veteran of Co. B, 56th Regiment, 
U. S. v., w^ho was wounded at Devon's Neck, S. C. December 7, 1864, 
and who rendered before and after that time valiant service in the 
Union's cause. It was accepted also by Captain Robert B. Hock, who 
was the village president, and was then serving his eighteenth consecutive 
term in that office. He also had been a soldier with a long and honorable 
record. He enlisted in the regular army as a bugler, some years before 
the war. and was assigned to the Tenth L'. S. Infantry, and sent to Fort 
Snelling. Minn. He took i)art in many expeditions against the Mormons, 



238 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

under General Albert Sidney Johnson, afterwards the confederate general 
killed at Shiloh. Mr. Hock was later sent to the scene of the Alount 
Meadow massacre and fought in the battle of Ash Hollow under General 
Hardy. In i860 he was a pony exj^ress rider when Denver was only a 
tented village. After Fort Sumter was fired on, his old commander Gen- 
eral Tracy, asked him to drill recruits at Staten Island. He did this and 
later performed the same service at Washington. In 1861 he was commis- 
sioned lieutenant of Co. E, 12th New York Cavalry, and in 1863 was 
made captain of Co. F. He was on the Burnside expedition, at Ball's 
Bluff and in the second battle of Bull Run. On April 17, 1864, he was 
taken prisoner at Plymouth, N. C. and confined for three weeks in Ander- 
sonville, four months at Macon, one month at Savannah, and one month 
at Charleston. With six brother officers he escaped from prison at Col- 
umbia, S. C, and was tracked by bloodhounds. All the others were 
recaptured, but he, after suffering terribly by privation and exposure, 
reached the Union lines and was cared for by the Third Tennessee, until 
able to report to General Dix in New York. In 1865 in a skirmish with 
General Bragg's troops his horse was shot from under him, and he was 
caught by Bragg's men and sent to Danville, Va. He made a break for 
liberty and escaped to the brush, rejoining the Union forces just before 
Lee's surrender. At Bentonville, in a cavalry charge, his horse was killed 
and he was thrown among the rebel infantry and captured. The same 
night he escaped, covering himself with dead leaves, and reporting at his 
company headquarters in the morning. His comrade in rebel prisons. 
Lieutenant A. Cooper, dedicated a book of his experiences to Captain 
Hock. 




Charles E. Stickney, 



TOWN or GREEXNILLE. 239 

CHAPTER X\ II. 

TOWN OF GREEWILLE. 

By Charles E. Stickxev. 

THE number of acres of laml in the town assessed in 1865, was 
18,287, at a valuation of $385,600. Personal property $49,850. 
The number of acres assessed in 1907 is 17,829 at a valuation of 
$269,485. Personal property, $19,850. A loss in 42 years of 458 acres 
of land, $116,115 in assessed valuation of real estate, and of $30,000 
assessed personal property. The town expenses (town audits i were 
$619.37, besides $807 for roads and bridges. 

In 1855 the town had a population of 1,218. Ten years later it had a 
population of 1,147; ^vhile in 1905 it had only 672 inhabitants, a loss of 
nearly half compared with its first-named census. 

The name was undoubtedly suggested by the beautiful green summer 
verdure the eastern part of the town exhibits, lying to the sun on the 
eastern declivity of Shawangunk mountain. 

Its boundaries are : Beginning at the corner of the town of Wawayanda 
line with that of Mount Hope, thence almost due west along the Mount 
Hope line to that of the town of Deer Park; thence along the Deer 
Park town line southwest to the New Jersey State line ; thence easterly 
along the said State line to the corner of the Mini sink town line ; thence 
northeasterly along the ]\Iinisink town line to a point on Castle High 
Hill near South Centerville ; thence northwesterly along the town of 
Waw-ayanda town line to a corner; thence northeasterly by north along 
the said line to the place of beginning. 

The first town meeting was held at the house of Jonathan Wood, in 
Bushville, March 28th, 1854. Bushville then was a village of some impor- 
tance, but since the near advent of railroads its trade has gone to other 
places. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES. 

The oldest village in the town is no doubt the 'settlement at Smith's 
Corners. It was situated on the road which leails alone the eastern slope 



240 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the Shawangunk mountain from Coleville, N. J., to Ocisville, and in 
early times was a place of some business. Elijah Smith was its founder 
about the close of the Revolution. Joseph Smith, justice of the peace 
(see Minisink civil list), in 1813 was a noted man in his day. After the 
Goshen and Minisink turnpike road was built, and later when (about 
1820) a mail route was established through there, the post-office was lo- 
lated at a store which stood where the village of Greenville now is. The 
post-office was named Minisink, because there was somewhere in the State 
a post-office already known as Greenville, and this was the nearest post- 
office to the real Minisink west of the mountain. Two churches, a store 
and a hotel are located there. The village of Smith's Corner has this 
year of 1907 been made convenient to travel on account of the new 
macadam road just built throughout it from Slate Hill to Carpenter's 
Point. 

Lake Maretange, upon which one of the great land patents (Evans) 
cornered in Colonial days, is now known as Binnewater Pond. It covers 
about twenty acres of land, and is now so filled with aquatic growths and 
mud that it has less than half of its original extent. It was once reported 
to be of great depth. It in early times was famous for its excellent 
fishing. Its original name was undoubtedly an Indian one. The name 
Binnewater is a corruption of the German Beninwasser (Inland water). 
Boudinot creek is its outlet. 

The great swamps which once stretched north and east of Smith's 
Corners were known to early records as "Pakadasink Swamp." They 
have been largely cleared, drained, and are coming rapidly under culti- 
vation. The Shawangunk Kill whose Indian name was the same as that 
of the swamp, "Takadasink" or "Peakadasink," originates from springs 
in the swamps, and flows northward along the base of the Shawangunk 
mountain toward Ulster County. 

Rutger's creek originates in the watershed south of Greenville village. 

EARLY SETTLERS. 

Jonathan Wood, justice of the peace as early as 1796, and Timothy 
Wood (see civil list) resided in Bushville in this town. 

John W. Eaton (see civil list) is a descendant of Robert, who came 
to the town, shortly after the Revolution. Robert had sons, John, 



TO\V\ OF GREENVILLE. 241 

William, Robert, and Samuel. There was alsu an Aiexamler in the town 
of about the same generatiim as Robert's sons, who liad a son Tliomas. 
John, the eldest son of Robert, had two sons, Gabriel and Daniel H. 
The latter during the later years of his life, owned the former David 
Moore farm now owned by William Creeden, in Wawayanda, where he 
died. Gabriel, during the later years of his life retired from active life 
to L'nionville, where he owned property and where he died. There seems 
to have been a James Eaton in the town contemporary with Robert. 
Their farms constituted what w'as called Eatontown. 

Charles Durland of Long Island settled near LJushville in this town 
prior to 1800, and it is probable that Moses came into the town soon after 
he did. ]\Ioses lived and died in the town, but Charles bought land, about 
a mile and a half south of Ridgeberry, where he made a permanent set- 
tlement and died there. Thomas T., Steward T., Daniel and Addison 
were sons of Charles. Steward T, and Daniel became residents of Green- 
ville (see civil list). Garret, John and George A. Durland, descendants 
of Moses, also resided in Greenville. George A. and Steward T. were 
justices of the peace for many terms in the town (see civil list). 
Addison settled near Westtown wdiere he died. Thomas T. Durland suc- 
ceeded to the old homestead near Ridgeberry, and later in life bought the 
former Phineas How^ell farm near Slate Hill, where he died. His widow 
(whose father, George Jackson, in his lifetime owned the farms now 
owned by William Ralston, of the lower road ) and son George, and 
daughters Alice L. and Etta H., now reside on the Slate Hill home- 
stead ; while a son, Charles, resides in Middletown and a daughter, Eliza- 
beth \'an Orden, lives in Pompton Lakes. 

John, Joseph and Hiram Manning were early settlers in the tow^n. 
Joseph's children were Joseph, Jr., John, Isaac, Richard, Walter, Benj- 
amin. ]\Irs. Isaac Finch., Mrs. E. Hurlbut, Mrs. John Ferguson. Hiram 
Manning at one time owned the grist, saw and cider mills at Millsburg. 
His son. John R. Manning, resides in Gardnersville in Wawayanda, and 
the latter's son. Hiram, Jr., is in business in Johnsons. 

Abraham Elston was a very earh' settler in the town and many of his 
descendants are still in it. 

Harvey H., Alfred, W. L. and W. W. Clark (see civil list) were de- 
scendants of the David Clark mentioned in a sketch of the family in the 
town of Minisink. 



242 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Under an old school law teachers were formerly licensed by town 
superintendents which prevailed up to 1856. Geo. A. Durland held the 
office of superintendent for some time. Samuel S. Graham was elected 
to the position in 1856, but the law was repealed that year and he was 
never sworn into office. 

CHURCHES. 



The Baptist Church of Greenville was incorporated January 27th, 1816, 
and was supplied by the pastors of Brookfield church until July 31st, 
1822, when the church was dedicated as a separate one. It was consti- 
tuted by thirty-one members. Elder Zelotes Grenell preached the sermon, 
August 3d. That year twenty-three more members were set off from the 
Brookfield church to it. Elder Henry Ball was pastor for eleven years. 
Elder D. Bennet supplied it from Unionville for four years. W. H. Jur- 
ton, D. Benett, C. Brinkerhoff and Joseph Haughwout supplied it to 1848. 
Rev. Stephen Case became pastor of it in May, 1848, and continued there 
to his death in 1895. It was said of him that he married and buried prob- 
ably more Orange and Sussex County people than any other minister has. 
He was a son of John and INIary (Mead) Case. The father is alleged to 
have come from New England, while his mother was a daughter of 
Ebenezer Mead of near Waterloo Mills in Minisink. John and Mary 
(Mead) Case had four sons, Joseph M., E. Inman, John B. and Stephen. 

Joseph M. was justice of the peace from 1850 to 1874 in Minisink 
and held other offices (see civil list).. The Case homestead was on the 
ridge west of Westtown where John died in 1844 and Rev. Ralph Bull 
preached the funeral sermon. His wife died in 1847. Joseph M. was un- 
married. E. Inman died in 1888. He had five sons and one daughter, 
John, Jr., Joseph, Ira L., Jefferson, Anson and Amelia. Ira L., became 
a resident of Middletown and was elected school commissioner of the 
second district of Orange County for a term. John B. studied for the 
ministry and became a clergyman of much influence. He died in 1886. 
He had seven children : John B., Jr., Stephen J., Joseph M., Tisdale, 
Joshua I., Sarah and Flora. 

Stephen, son of John, after his primary studies were over, attended 
and graduated at Madison University in 1840. He began preaching the 
next year, and supplied the pulpit of the Orange Baptist Church six 



TOWN OF GRKEWILLK. 243 

months. Then he preached lor three years in what was called the iJroad- 
way Baptist Church, which we incline to think was located near Wyker- 
town in Wantage township, N. J., probably the one built by Job Cosad. 
In May, 1848, he became pastor of the Mount Salem and Greenville 
churches. He was then about thirty years old, and he labored there for 
over sixty years until his death. He was survived by three sons: John E., 
Joshua, Jr. and Joseph jNI. Joshua, Jr., is a famous auctioneer residing in 
Unionville. 

The Mcthudist Church of Greenville was incorporated December 23rd, 
1850. There had been preaching for about twenty years before that by 
ministers of the j\L E. denomination. The church edifice was built before 
the church was incorporated. Rev. Henry Litts, who died a few years 
ago in Deckertowni, was pastor there for some time, succeeding Revs. 
Andrews, Grace and Rusling. 

Besitles the cemeteries connected w-ith the churches, there are a number 
of family burial places in the town; notably those of the Manning, Sey- 
bolt, Seeley, Courtright, \*anbuskirk, Mulock, Remey and Jenks families. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

During the Civil War the town issued in August, 1864, bonds for 
$25,159; they were all paid by February nth, 1871. 

Its officials have from the formation of the town proved worthy men. 
It has been universally Democratic by a small majority. 

Nathaniel Reeves Quick, justice of the peace from 1868 to 1873, was a 
tall pleasant man, a descendant of the Quick family of Pennsylvania. 
He was well posted on the history of the famous Tom Quick, who was 
a member of the same family. The traditions which Mr. Quick, of 
Greenville, had instilled into his mind from accounts handed down to him 
by his grandfather, no doubt truthful, were not altogether complimentary 
to the old Indian hunter. His grandfather said (told by Nathaniel 
R. himself), that Tom, when hard pressed for something to eat, would 
come to his house and stay till the good housewife would absolutely 
refuse to cook for him any longer, and his grandfather would inform 
Tom that he must either go to work or leave. That, he said, always 
started him. for if there was anything in this world that Tom hated it 
was to work. Then he would shoulder his gun and tramp off in the forest 



244 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

for two or three months before he ventured to show himself again at the 
house. In truth, his grandfather did not put much dependence on the 
stories told by Tom of his adventures, because he thought Tom was 
merely whiling the time away with something to wheedle him with, in 
fact, a sort of "stand off" for lodging. 

The old Goshen and Minisink turnpike road of the last century, crossing 
Shawangunk Mountain just west of Greenville village, was changed by 
the State to a macadam road constructed or, nearly so, in 1907. It takes 
a new route across the mountain and has greatly reduced the grade. The 
Goshen end of the road to Dolsentown was completed a few years ago, 
and the one from Dolsentown through Wawayanda and Minisink to the 
State line about two years ago. The new road through Greenville con- 
nects with the Wawayanda line at Slate Hill. 

Of the Tory element in the town during the Revolution, it is tradi- 
tionally remembered that Brant is said to have, after his first raid 
in 1778, contemjDlated a more extensive one. For that ptirpose he came to 
Greenville secretly to get information of the surroundings. He hid 
himself in the Pakadasink swamp below Smith's Corners, and explored 
the vicinity by night. Certain Tories of the neighborhood were suspected 
at the time of furnishing food to some tramp in tlie swamp, and one of 
them was caught returning from the swamp where he had been to take 
a portion of a sheep which he had killed, as it was later found out. Ex- 
citement ran high at once and a party visited his premises and found that 
he had slaughtered a sheep and had taken a part of it to the swamp to 
feed a hidden Tory as was supposed. A committee improvised a fife and 
drum corps, wrapped the bloody sheepskin about him, and marched him 
at the point of a bayonet on foot to Goshen followed by the music of the 
fife and drum. 

This was on a broiling hot day in summer, and, as may well be sup- 
posed, that march of sixteen miles, bothered as he was by the flies and the 
jokes of the people they met, made the victim very uncomfortable. Later 
when Brant swooped down on Minisink in 1779, he did not cross the 
mountain into the Greenville neighborhood as the settlers then thought he 
intended to do at first. Then they ascertained the kind of a tramp that the 
Tory had been furnishing with mutton in Pakadasink swamp, and re- 
joiced to think that their prompt action in treating their Tory neighbor 
to that arrest probably saved their homes from the invasion planned. 



TOWN OF GREi:X\ iLLE. 245 

Before the days of railroads the people who hvcd in these neighbor- 
hoods generally went to Newburgh, and if they desired to go to New York 
took from thence passage on a sailing vessel for that place. Sometimes 
the passage occupied three or four days between those two cities, de- 
pendent on the weather. In windy weather the sloops often had to 
anchor under some protecting high shore, and in dark nights they gener- 
ally anchored until daylight. A disaster which made a great sensation 
throughout the county and elsewhere, happened November 24th, 1824, to 
a sloop of this kind, near Pollopel's Island, in lower Newburgh bay. The 
sloop Neptune w^as on its way up the river under command of its first 
deck hand, John Decker, the captain (Ilalstead) having been left in New 
York sick. About twenty tons of plaster were in its hold and about twenty 
more tons piled on deck, together with eight or ten tons of other goods. 
There was a strong wind prevailing and the boat was coming up near the 
island with a double reef in the mainsail and all precautions taken for 
safety, when there came a sudden blast of wind which causc<l the sloop to 
dip and the plaster on deck to shift its weight. This shifting of the deck 
plaster caused the sloop to dip so violently that the water came pouring 
into the scuttle of the forecastle, and into the cabin where some ten or 
twelve women and a number of children w^ere gathered. Besides the crew 
about twenty-six male passengers were on the deck. Instead of righting, 
the boat went right down without further warning. .\11 in the cabin were 
drowned. It was about noon, and several boats that saw the sloop go 
down hurried to the scene, and were so successful as to rescue seventeen 
oT the passengers. 

Joshua :Mulock, of Minisink (now Greenville) was one of the men on 
deck, and he said that when he first heard the women and children scream 
in the cabin, he tried to break a grating in the deck to let them out and 
the boat went down so quick that it carried a part of his vest with it 
which caught fast. That held him and he went down under ihe boat. 
Luckily his vest tore loose, and he floated out from under the boat an<l 
came to the surface, where he was rescued. Jesse Green from present 
Greenville, and a man named Carey from present Wawayanda neighbor- 
hood, were also saved. Among those drowned were John Greenleaf, 
George Evertson. :\[atilda Helms and William Kelly and child from 
Minisink. The next year the bodies of ^Fatilda Helms and Mr. Green- 
leaf were found among others at Cold Spring some distance down the 



246 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

river. They were buried by the coroner of Putnam County. The sloop 
was afterwards raised by its owners. 

Next to the battle of Minisink this disaster furnished the greatest sen- 
sation of those early times. Mr. Mulock was a great humorist. On one 
occasion, a Mr. and Mrs. Lee, of Greenville, made Mr. and Mrs. Mulock 
an evening visit. When the visitors were seated in their wagon ready to 
start for home, one of them said to their host and hostess, "Now you must 
come and see us as soon as you can." "We'll promise to do so, sure !'' said 
Mr. Mulock. 

When Mr. and Mrs. Lee had arrived home, and she was in the house 
with a lighted candle looking at the clock and wondering how they came 
to stay until after midnight, and he was returning from the stables where 
he had placed the horse, they were surprised to hear a wagon driving up 
to the door. How much greater was their surprise when they both went to 
the gate to see who it was, and saw there Mr. and Mrs. Mulock. "You 
told us," said the former, "that we must come and see you as soon as we 
could, and here we are." Then after a laugh at Mr. and Mrs. Lee's ap- 
parent discomfiture, they went home, and told the joke round about to 
their friends. We give it to illustrate the jollity of those times. 

From the years 1836 to 1854 the post office regulations for the three 
towns, under the name of Minisink, were a mail delivery Tuesdays and 
Fridays of each week. The mail was carried by a contractor, who left 
Goshen on those days in the morning in a one horse sulky or gig which 
easily carried the driver and mail bags. He came across the Wallkill at 
Pellet's Island to Ridgeberry; thence to Westtown, Unionville, Minisink 
(Greenville) and back through Bushville, South Centerville, Brookfield-. 
Slate Hill, Denton and to Goshen. The trip was made in one day. Some- 
times the carrier would have a young woman on the seat with him which 
invariably made him late and caused lots of grumbling among the people 
waiting for the mail. Few letters were received, and the only newspapers 
taken generally were the Goshen Democrat and Independent Republican, 
of Goshen. Not a daily paper then found its way in this region except at 
intervals. The rates of postage were, up to 1845, for a letter of a single 
sheet, not exceeding thirty miles, six cents ; over thirty and not exceeding 
eighty miles, ten cents; over eighty and not over 150, twlve and one-half 
cents; over 150 and not over 400 miles, eighteen and three-quarter cents; 
over 400 miles, twenty-five cents. If the letter had two sheets of paper it 



TOWX (JF GREEN \ILLE. 247 

was cliari^cd double, and if three sheets, triple rates; for4each newspaper 
carried not over 100 miles, one cent; to any office in the State where 
printed, one cent ; otherwise over 100 miles, one and a half cents. Pamph- 
lets 100 miles, one and a half cents a sheet; over 100 miles, two and 
a half cents a sheet; if not published periodically, four and six cents a 
sheet, as to distance. Everything else was paid at letter postage at a quar- 
ter ounce rale. The letters then were sent without envelopes, folded so as 
to conceal the writing, and sealed with wax usually. The postage was col- 
lected on delivery. In 1854 the rates were reduced considerably, but all 
other features retained. In 1855, the writer, then a boy, was left tempo- 
rarily in charge of the post-ofifice at Slate Hill, which then paid the post- 
master, a storekeeper, about $10 a year percentage. He then kept a store 
and the keeper of the office was considered a help to the store trade. A 
woman came in and asked if there was a letter for her. There was. She 
asked how much postage was due on it. There was eighteen cents. Then 
she asked to look at it. The verdant young man handed it to her. She 
opened it, glanced over the contents, then handed it back, saying, "I won't 
take it. There's nothing in it worth the money." The postmaster when 
informed of the incident later, said, "Boy, next time don't you hand out 
the letter till they hand over the money." 

In 1852 the postage was reduced and a little later envelopes came in 
fashion. The Aliddletown, Unionville and Watergap Railroad was com- 
pleted from Middletown to Unionville, June 2n(l, 1868. That changed 
mail arrangements throughout the three towns. Slate Hill. Johnsons, 
Westtown and Unionville got a daily mail. A\'aterloo ^lills, Denton and 
Bushville were abandoned, and Ridgeberry and South C'nterville were 
supplied from Slate Hill. The railroad is now known as the Xew York, 
Susquenhanna & Western, under control of the Erie. The increase in 
the amount of mail matter handled has been wonderful, and the offices 
which once had their mail matter carried on a two-wheel sulky twice a 
week easily, would now require a team of horses and a big wagon to 
move it every day. 

The 4th and 5th days of January, 1835, were remarkably cold days and 
that winter was a terribly severe one. We liave no thermometer records 
for riur three towns of those days, but in Xew York City it was 5 de- 
grees, in Xewark 13 and Elizabethtown 18 degrees below zero for both 
days. In 1857 the 23rd of January was a remarkably cold flay, the ther- 



248 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

mometer standing at 2.2^ below in the early morning, 17 at noon, and 12 
at night, when it began to snow and a deep snow came. 

Orange County gave 3,541 votes for Van Biiren^ and 2,242 for Har- 
rison for President in 1836. 

Tke local option law in our three towns has resulted in a continual 
no-license majority for about twenty-five years in Wawayanda ; occasional 
no-license in Greenville and Minisink. The result of the election m 1907 
gave no-license a majority in Minisink. 

In ancient times elections were held in the spring for local officers, and 
in the fall for county. State and national officers. All the officers in the 
State are now elected in November on one day. In 1837, the States held 
election: Maine, 2nd Monday of September; Alabama, Mississippi, Ken- 
tucky, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri, ist Monday in August; Delaware, 
1st Tuesday of October; Louisiana, ist Monday of July; Tennessee and 
North Carolina, ist Thursday in August; Vermont, ist Tuesday in Sep- 
tember; Georgia and Maryland, ist Monday in October; New York, ist 
Monday in November ; Massachusetts, 2nd Monday in November ; New 
Hampshire, 2nd Tuesday in March ; Virginia and Connecticut in April ; 
Rhode Island in August ; South Carolina, 2nd Monday in October. 

During the first early years of our history, where farmers kept large 
dairies, they made butter, which was the mainstay of their farming. They 
used a tread-wheel about twelve feet in diameter set at a steep incline, on 
one side of which a horse or bull climbed to furnish the power for churn- 
ing. Similar dairies used sheep or calves. About 1834 to 1840 (tradition) 
George F. Reeve, of near ^^liddletown, invented an endless chain-power 
on which a good-sized dog would furnish as nuich power as an animal 
twice as large. 

Lights for many years were furnished of dip tallow candles. These 
were made by melting a wash boiler full of tallow, into which six candle- 
wicks hung on a stick were dipped and hung on a rack to cool. Enough 
sticks were used so that by the time the last one was dipped the first one 
was cool enough to dip again, and so the process was continued until the 
candles had accumulated enough tallow to be of the right size. When- 
ever the tallow in the boiler began to get low hot water was added to 
make the tallow float to the top of the boiler. When beeves were killed 
in the fall the good housewives were careful to dip candles for a whole 
year's supply. About 1852 camphene began to be used for lights, and in 



TOWX OF GREEXMLLE. 249 

some instances alcohol and sonnj other dangerous compounds. About 
i860 the use of kerosene came into family and public lighting-, and is still 
the great illuminant. 

In 1777 a real estate ownership of one hundred pounds value was a 
necessary qualification for a voter who desired to vote for a Governor, 
Senator and Assemblyman, while only twenty pounds worth of real 
estate was requisite in order to qualify a person to vote for a representa- 
tive in Congress. For town officials and resolutions all male citizens were 
allowed to vote, and this was generally done at town meetings viva voce, 
or by division to the right and left. A Governor then held office three 
years and had to be a real' estate owner. Senators held office four years 
and had to be owners of one hundred pounds worth of real estate. 
Judges were appointed by the Governor and council and hehl office during 
good behavior, but were disqualified when sixty years old. They could be 
removed by the Governor when requested by a tv/o-thirds vote of the 
legislature. Clergymen were then excluded from holding office, and from 
the legislature. In 1821 a new State constitution was framed and the 
property qualifications removed. Ballots were then introduced generally 
in town elections. 



250 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XVHI. 
TOWN OF HAMPTONBURGH. 

By Margaret Crawford Jackson. 

ON March 5, 1703, in the reign of Queen Anne, the Wawayanda 
patent was signed. The grantors were twelve Indians named 
Rapingonick, Wawastawa, Aloghopuck, Comelawaw, Manawitt, 
Ariwimack, Rumbout, Clanss, Chonckhass, Chingapaw, Oshaquemonus 
and Quiliapaw, and among the twelve patentees was Christafer Denn. 
He was. a Frenchman and a carpenter, then living on the eastern shore 
of Staten Island with his wife, Elizabeth, and a young girl sixteen years 
of age, Sarah Wells, who had been taken by them as an infant and 
brought up as their own, although she did not receive their name, nor at 
their deaths did they mention her in their wills, probably because she 
had received one hundred acres after her marriage. 

Christofer Denn, as his name is spelled by Mr. Eager in his history, 
or "Denne," as spelled by Mr. Ruttenber. the latter says, was a resident 
of New York in 170 1, and one of the signers of the "Protestant Peti- 
tion" to William III, in that year. In 1702 his name appears appended 
to the congratulatory address to Lord Cornbury as one "of the chiefest 
inhabitants of the City and County on New York." And in 1705 he 
was one of the signers of a petition by the merchants of that city. He 
was still a resident of New York in 1722-1723, and it was in that city his 
wife Elizabeth died. It should be noticed that it is said Denn was a resi- 
dent of the county of New York, even when not living in the city. 

SAR\H WELLS. 

Around Sarah Wells much of the history of Hamptonburgh is woven. 
She was born in New Jersey, opposite Staten Island, April 6, 1694, and 
died April 21, 1796, aged 102 years, leaving 355 living descendants. Her 
husband was William Bull, an Englishman from Wolverhampton. The 
family left there for Dublin in February, 1689. At Wolverhampton the 
church register shows the records of the family back to 900 A. D. The 



TOWN OF HAAIPTONBURGH. 251 

late claim is thai William Bull, son of John Bull, and grandson of Josias 
Bull, of Kingshurst Hall, who emigrated in 1715, settling at Hampton- 
burgh, Orange County, New York, is identical with the husband of 
Sarah Wells. But whether Kingshurst Hall is in Wolverhampton we 
cannot say at this moment. However, the coat-of-arms belonging to the 
Bulls of Kingshurst Hall has been engraved and virtually accepted by 
Mr. Ebenezer Bull, of Hamptonburgh, as that of his ancestors. 

Christofer Denn's share of 2,000 acres in the Wawayanda patent hav- 
ing been set apart, he visited the location and made friends with the 
Indians living there. The claim was surveyed by Peter Berian and lay 
touching the northeasterly bounds of the town lots of the village of 
Goshen. Its bounds run thus : "Beginning at a stake and stones about 
east of and ten chains from the dwelling-house of General Abraham 
\'ail in East Division; thence northwesterly along the northeasterly 
bounds of the Goshen town lots, and until it meets with a line supposed 
to divide the old counties of Ulster and Orange; thence east along the 
same to a stake and stones known to be standing near the top of the 
highland, or mountain above Charles Heard's in Hamptonburgh ; thence 
on a course about thirty-six degrees west to the place of beginning. 

Some difficulty arose later in running the survey of other lines which 
interfered with Denn's claim. 

To settle it a grant was made after his death in the name of his wife, 
Elizabeth "Denne," of 1,140 acres, December 12, 1734. Although the 
patent had been signed there was a condition that unless a settlement 
was made on the Wawayanda patent by the end of May, 1712, the title 
was to lapse. Add to this that six hundred acres were to be given to 
the first settler and we may find a sufficient motive for Christofer Denn 
to become the needed pioneer. 

His affair? were embarrassed at the time, and this change from the 
city to the wilderness probably offered a much needed retreat for a time 
at least. He took with him on his return to the city after his inspection 
of the land, three young Indians, sons of those whom he had visited and 
of the tribe which had parted with their land to the patentees. They 
had befriended the surveyors while running out the patent and had kindly 
volunteered their services to help him remove from the city to the patent. 
All accounts say that three ynung Indians went with him to the city and 
helped to direct the party. 



252 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

It was Sarah Wells, this slender, dark-eyed little girl of sixteen, whom 
Denn chose to go forth alone with the men to conquer the wilderness. 
When he told her, she was sick with terror at the thovight that in the latter 
part of her journey her only companions would be the carpenters and 
half-naked savages, who might attack her at any moment. 

The carpenters sent to build the log house, of whom there were two, 
knew nothing of the countr}-, and had treachery been intended the whites 
must have been defenseless. 

Denn, being in straitened circumstances at the time, the other patentees 
came to his assistance and supplied the sloop and crew and cows and 
horses to assist in the settlement which, according to Eager, was to hold 
the Wawayanda Patent. 

The present family believe him to have been correct in regard lo their 
history, for he was a descendant on his mother's side. He gives a full 
and romantic account of this journey, from which we can only give ex- 
tracts. 

He says: "As this portion of our narrative was derived from Sarah 
in after life, we purpose to place an inventory of the various articles of 
outfit before the reader, that he may judge of its nature, extent and value, 
which are as follows : Two pack horses with bells on, two milk cows with 
bells, two dogs, two Irish brahmas, one spade, two pails, two beds and 
bedding, one small and one large kettle, wood trenches and bowls, can- 
dlesticks and candles, a pair of trammels, a frying pan, small tin plates 
for saucers, coffee pot with cofifee, teapot, chocolate, tin canister with tea, 
silver teaspoons and sugar tongs, small china teacups and saucers, bundle 
of cloths, saddlebags, pillow saddles, knives and forks, some potatoes, 
wallets, medical cordials in vials, refined sugar in small pieces, brown 
sugar in rolls, flour, biscuit, ham in small sacks, some trinkets, ribbons 
and small knives for the Indians." 

There may have been other articles not enumerated. As Denn bade 
Sarah good-bye in a subdued voice and tones of affectionate regard, he 
said: "Sarah, you have been kind and dutiful to us thus far, and your 
present conduct confirms us in your kindness. The duty you have to per- 
form is new and may be fatiguing, but must if possible be accomplished 
now or the season may be lost. The workmen will take care of you while 
on the boat and afterwards, while the Indians, of whose friendship I 
have no doubt, will guide you through the woods to the place selected for 




William Bull. 



TOWN OF HAMl'T(JXi;Ll«iII. 253 

our dwelling. This work i^ very imixiriant ami what you do for Madam 
Demi and me is also done for the benefit of the company." He ended 
thus: "God save and bless you, Sarah." 

The Indians faithfully i)erformed their part and the one who was 
given especial charge over Sarah's horse (after the party landed on the 
banks of the Hudson near Cornwall), although half-naked, as were the 
other two, watched carefully her comfort. Their eyes were piercing, 
their voices harsh and grating, yet Sarah's attendant showed a deference 
;nd gentle anxiety to please that many white men of to-day might envy. 

Sarah mounted on the second horse, sat upon beds and bedding with 
many small articles around her and managed her horse with great diffi- 
culty. The Indian marched close by her side, helped her on and off her 
liorse, and pointed out many things in the woods calculated to interest her 
ittention and draw her out in conversation. Xot infrequently he plucked 
an early flower as it sprang up by the wayside, and calling her attention 
to it. tasted its leaves and then presented it for acceptance. 

They arrived on the bank of the stream, now the Otterkill, opposite 
the spot which Christofer Denn had selected as the place of his residence. 
Thus the journey in full twenty miles of pathless forest, with ocoa- 
-ional thick underwood, was performed in a single day. 

They built a fire beneath a tree whose branches guarded them from 
dampness. They put boughs of trees upon forked sticks driven into 
the ground antl laid the beds there to escape the snakes, and the car- 
penters lay down and slept well till morning, but Sarah dreamed and 
slept fitfully, while the Indians threw- themselves on the ground with their 
feet to the fire and slept all night. Whenever Sarah roused herself 
to look about, "her Indian" made signs to her that all was w'ell and he 
was guarding her. The next day the carpenters built a wigwam of split 
logs resting on end against a frame of poles 16 by 18 feet with a ditch 
about it to carry off rain. It had a slanting roof with a hole three feet 
square in the peak for the escape of smoke, the fireplace being below it. 

The goods were first unpacked and plates set on the table for supper the 
second evening of their arrival, when one of the Indians saw two people 
at a distance, and going to reconnoiter, found Madam Denn and her hus- 
bantl. They had been so overcome by the parting from Sarah and the 
enormity of their conduct in sending her on such a perilous adventure, 
that they had followed her on horseback up through Xew Jersey as fast 



254 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

as they could, and arrived in time for the first meal in the new wigwam. 
On seeing them at the door she fainted at their feet. 

It is only just to say that the friendship thus begun between Sarah 
and the Indians continued to the end. 

When the Indians were most hostile to others in the neighborhood the 
family could always give a safe refuge to the many who sought a shelter 
under their roof when night came. 

WILLIAM BULL. 

In 1716 William Bull entered on the scene. Born in Wolverhampton, 
England, February, i68g, his youth was, however, passed in Dublin, 
where his father moved when he was small. 

He was apprenticed to learn the trade of a mason and stone cutter. 
When his apprenticeship ended he and a young friend took the contract 
to build a large arch for a bridge being constructed near Dublin. Tradi- 
tion says : One Saturday night the work was nearly done and the arch 
finished but for the keystone. He begged the men to remain and put it 
in place, so completing the work, but they refused. On going down to 
see it on the next morning he found it fallen and his fortunes with it. 
It had carried with it his all and imprisonment for debt — as far as he 
knew it might be for life — stared him in the face. 

There was a ship lying at the dock which he knew was sailing that 
day for New York. He searched his pockets and discovered five guineas 
with which and a few books he boarded the vessel. The captain on being 
asked if that much money would take him to America, answered it would. 
On reaching New York the captain told him the money had brought 
him, but had not paid his full passage and he must be sold for the balance. 
Bull was highly indignant and refused to leave the ship. He replied that 
he would return to Ireland and face his debts. Daniel Cromline, wdio 
also had a share in the Wawayanda patent, heard that an Irish ship 
was in dock, and hoping to procure some workmen had it proclaimed 
on board the ship. Bull felt that Providence and strangers would help 
him, and on telling his story to Mr. Cromline the money was advanced 
and they traveled together as far as Greycourt. Here he did the mason 
work on the old stone Greycourt house in 1716. 

This was long a public inn on the way from the Hudson to New Jer- 
sey, and was a famous resort for the people around. 



TOWN ( ) 1 " 1 1 A .M I'TUX BURGI I . 



-^D^ 



William Lhill live.l in the Cromlinc family, \v1k)>c palciil was not far 
frum that part of the W'awayanda patent on which Mr. Denn had set- 
tled. They were in fact neighboring families, and so William Liull met 
Sarah Wells. They loved each other and were married in 1718. 

The ceremony took place in the new double log house of Christofer 
Denn, and as Dull was an Episcopalian and desired to be married by the 
rites of his church they did not know how to proceed. There was no 
church nor a clergyman who could proclaim the banns three weeks, but 
courts of justice had been established and a magistrate was in the neigh- 
borhood. 

They decided that circumstances alter cases and summoned their guests. 
All being assembled the magistrate carrying the prayer book proceeded 
first to the front door and proclaimed the banns to the trees of the for- 
est, then tlirough the hall to the back door where he proclaimed it to the 
cattle and the outbuildings. He made proclamation then once more from 
the front door to the wilderness at large and then performed the mar- 
riage ceremony. The wedding dress was of homespun linen delicately 
embroidered by the bride, and is now in the possession of one of her de- 
scendants, who has exhibited it at the family picnic held each year on the 
last W'ednesday in August in the grove at Campbell Hall. 

Later Sarah Wells Bull asked for and received the jjromised reward 
of 100 acres from Christofer Denn for having gone alone at his bidding 
to settle his claim and save his title. 

^^''illiam Btill and Richard Gerard received a grant joining Denn's 
of 2.600 acres. August 10, 1723. 

(Jn the 100 acres given to Sarah. Bull built a barn of hand-sawed 
planks. These were of ash. rived, and the shingles of split pme and 
put on each with two pegs. This barn is still in use and never has 
been jxiinled. Afterwards he built the stone house in 1727 en his (iwn 
land near by. and it is still occupied by the family and probably \\\\\ stand 
for generations to come. It is l)uilt on a rock, with a spring in the cellar, 
and before the house was quite finished in September, 1727, an earthquake 
which was felt for 1.500 miles, cracked the east side of the house and 
the crack can still be seen. The lightning struck it in 1767-8, but only 
slight damage was done to its thick stone walls. The house has two 
stories of eleven feet each, with basement and a good-sized garret. It is a 
truly fine hou-^e for those time-. Afr. Bull r.illed his place Hampton- 



256 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

burgh, from Wolverhampton where he was born. There were eight chil- 
dren born to him. 

FEATURES AND SETTLERS. 

Hamptonbnrgh township as it now stands was set apart in 1830 from 
the towns bounding it. It is in the form of an irregular hexagon, its 
northern extremity a point and Montgomery bounding it on the north- 
east f,nd northwest, with the Wallkill River running between Wallkill 
township on the west and Montgomery on the northwest, while Goshen 
is on the southwest. Blooming Grove the southeast and New Windsor 
on the east. 

The Otterkill circles through the town adding picturesqueness to the 
fields it waters, while high ridges and fertile valleys vary the scene. 
The Goshen and Montgomery State road runs northeast through the 
western part of the town and the Little Britain State road joms it at 
Clark's Crossing. Mr. Clark's farm, once the Denniston Bull farm, is 
now in the hands of the New York and New Jersey Railroad, and the 
road is being constructed. It is claimed that this will put Campbell Hall 
within one hour of New York City, instead of the three days' journey by 
sloop and horseback which Sarah Wells had to undergo. 

At Campbell Hall Junction four railroads center, the Ontario and 
Western, the Central New England, the Wallkill V^alley Division of the 
N. Y. C. & H. R. and the Erie, while the Lehigh and New England runs 
through the eastern part of the town from norch to south, with stations at 
Hamptonburgh, Girard and Burnside, thus making this small town of 
more than proportionate interest in the county. 

There are six rural schools and one church now in the town. This 
is the Presbyterian church at Campbell Hall, where also are the stores 
of Alexander Brothers and C. B. Howell, a meat market, a creamery 
and a blacksmith's shop, and the surrounding houses with neat lawns 
make an attractive hamlet. 

The two-room schoolhouse stands in a grove of oaks on a hill over- 
lookmg the Otterkill where the old church stood before it was moved to 
Hamptonburgh proper. Now that building stands empty and only the 
graveyard tells the old story. The name Campbell Hall came from a 
Colonel Campbell who lived there. His house was back of what is now 
the Bertholf house. "Col. Campbell was a Scotchman, the father of Mrs. 
Margaret Eustace, who was the mother of Gen. Eustace of the Revo- 







UJ 



TOWN OV HA^IPTOXIU'RCII. 257 

lutionar\ anu\ of I'rancc, both i.if wlium, we Ijclicve, died in ihc vicinity 
of Xewburgh thirty or thirty-five years since." (Eager in 1846-7.) In 
speaking of Mrs. Eustace he notes her chgnity of manner when she re- 
sided at Campbell Hall ; also of her husband, Doctor Eustace, who was 
from the South, lie says there was a secret not fully understood which 
emlnttered the last years of her life and her father's. 

Campbell Hall owes much to ^Irs. ^^latilda Booth Gouge. Her hus- 
band, ^Ir. George Gouge, conducted a large creamery business there for 
years, and on his death he left his widow more than comfortably pro- 
vitled for. There were no children and Mrs. Gouge did many kind things 
for her neighbors before her death. She gave the ground on wdiich the 
church was built and a large iiouse for a j^arsonage close to the church. 
She aiso educated a colored man for the ministry. ( )n her death she willed 
her large residence with its furniture for a more comfortable home for 
the pastor and her farm of 100 acres to the church with $5,000 in bonds. 
]\Io>t of the buildings in the village are built on land purchased from her. 
Her l)irthi)laee was near and is now owned by Mr. C. B. Howell. 

liurnside has a sawmill, a store and a Borden's creamery. Post offic(?s 
are in each place and the R. F. D. comes out from Montgomery. This 
closes the helpful ])ul)lie activities of the town, but fine hotels, with bars, 
make an addition not to be omitted. It is impossible to follow closely all 
the different family fortunes of those who make the records of to-day ; 
our allotted space is too small. 

There are two of the original grants on which the descendants of the 
patentees are still living. These are the Richard Gerard and William 
Bull grants. 

The one of 2.C)00 acres was dated August 10, 1723, on which, by a mis- 
take of calculation, the carpenters erected the first wigwam in 1712, fol- 
lowed by the William Bull stone house. 

The second grant lay partly in Wallkill, partly in Hamptonburgh. di- 
vided unevenly by the Wallkill River, \\illiam lUill, Esq.. the great- 
great-grandson of the first one of the name here, lives upon the western 
portion, and the stone house known as Hill-Hold on the eastern part, be- 
longs to the descendants of the third son of William Bull — Thomas Bull, 
Robert McLeod Jackson and Margaret Eleanor Jackson and their 
mother. Margaret Crawford Jackson, wife of Robert McDowell Jackson, 
son of William Wickham Jackson. 



2S8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The stones in the house were cut in the fields by the builder, Thomas 
Bull, as he had time for the work between planting and reaping-. It was 
years before he was ready to build. Paneling was brought from Eng- 
land for the east and west sides of the two large first-floor rooms. Also 
solid mahogany balls for the newels and mahogany balusters. The walls 
are two feet thick, with open fireplaces throughout the house and massive 
chimney stacks on the east and west. This house also stands on a rock, 
is in good repair and has a beautiful situation on a hill. 

Thirty years ago Air. Charles Backman bought the road house by 
Stony Ford bridge, known as the Sutton House, with race track, and 
began to improve Orange County's fine trotting stock. Little by little he 
bought the adoining farm land until he owned 640 acres and remade the 
mile of road from Stony Ford to La Grange into as fine a highway as are 
the best State roads to-day 

His house was visited by many noted people, among them General 
Grant when President, and General Benjamin F. Tracy, now ex-Secretary 
of the Navy. Air. J. Howard Force now owns the place. General Tracy 
owned for a few years a farm in Goosetown or LaGrange, which he 
named A^arshland and greatly improved. This also was a stock farm for 
fine horses ; it is now in other hands. Air. Backman bought part of the 
Valentine Hill farm originally belonging to Andrew Wilson, who was a 
private in Colonel James AlcClaughrey's regiment of Little Britain. In 
October, 1777, he was one of the hundred men sent out from Fort Alont- 
gomery to intercept the British, who were 5,000 strong and commanded 
by Sir Flenry Clinton in person. 

Here is a dispatch from Governor Clinton, dated October 7, 1777, the 
day after the fort was taken : "We received intelligence that the enemy 
were advancing on the west side of the mountain with design to attack us 
in the rear. Upon this ordered out Colonels Bruyer and AlcClaughrey 
with upwards of 100 men towards Doodletown with a brass field piece, 
with a detachment of sixty men on every advantageous post on the road to 
the furnace. They were not long out before they were attacked by the 
enemy with their whole force; our people behaved with spirit and must 
have made great slaughter of the enemy." 

Andrew Wilson was here taken prisoner and when an English soldier 
ordered him to take off his silver shoe buckles he refused and was 
knocked down by the butt of a musket and his buckles taken. He lay 




George W. Carpenter. 



TOWN OF HAMPTUXJUR(jH. 2S>j 

on the sugar hulk for two years and behcved he was treated with greater 
indignity than others because of his refusal. 

After his release he lived on the farm mentioned on the east bank of 
the W'allkill. His son James died first, he himself in 1804. He left two 
sons and a daughter. Jolm lived and died in Goshen. His son, Andrew, 
raised two companies in 1812, the first he turned over to his intimate 
friend, Burnett of Little Britain, that they might not be separated; the 
second gave him a commission as lieutenant in the regular army. After- 
wards he liccame captain and was in charge at (jovernor's Island. He 
married a daughter of William Bull, of W'allkill, Milinda Ann, and made 
a home in Goshen. He was sent to the Legislature from there in 1819. 
He was prominent in the temperance movement, also the Bible society 
and the church life of Hamptonburgh. 

The first pastor settled at Hamptonburgh was the Rev. James R. 
Johnson, formerly of Goshen. The tide of prosperity in the town was 
expected to set to the east, about the new church, but the hopes were 
not fulfilled, and little by little Campbell Hall Ijccame the established 
center. The Rev. Slater C. Hepburn was called after Mr. Johnson and 
was installed July 2, 1850, and died in Cami)bell Hall after serving his 
people forty-five years. 

Able B. W'atkins was an early settler near the Denns and ha<l a family 
of ten children. 

In 1749 Silas Pierson came from Long Island and took possession of 
what long was known as the old shingle house on the Pierson farm, a 
mile northeast of Hamptonburgh church. This house was burned this 
spring of 1907, April 13th. The eastern half was built of squared logs 
up to the eaves. 

On the 8th day of July, 1760. James DeLaney, Esq., his ^lajesty's 
lieutenant-governor and commander-in-chief in and over the province 
of Xew York and the territories depending thereon, signed a com- 
mission appointing Silas Pierson to be captain of the company of 
militia foot lately commanded by John Bull. Esq. This was near the 
close of the French and Indian War, when England had determined to 
destroy the power of France in America. The militia was liable to be 
called out at any time to defend the settlements against the attacks of the 
Indians and to avenge their wrongs. 

In 1775 Silas Pierson was captain in Jes^e WoodhuH's regiment: later 



26o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

he was captain of a light horse company in the Revohition. Silas Pier- 
son and Silas Pierson, Jr., were among the many signers of the pledge 
in the Cornwall precincts, in which they declared that they would never 
become slaves and would aid the Continental Congress in opposing the 
arbitrary acts of the British Parliament. Joshua Pierson, grandfather 
of George Pierson, Sr., was a private in Col. Jesse Woodhull's regiment 
in 1777 at the age of sixteen, and went with the regiment under the com- 
mand of Major Zachariah Du Bois to assist in the defence of Fort Mont- 
gomery. 

The family of Mr. William Henry Pierson still resides on the old farm. 
His wife was Miss Elizabeth Bull of the "stone house." His daughter 
Lucilc married Harry Bull, of Wallkill, who, like his father, is justice 
of the peace. It thus appears that in a large degree the history of Hamp- 
tonburgh township is the history of the Bulls, for marriage has linked 
the family with so many other well-known names. 

We would like to give a list of the men who have served as super- 
visors and also as elders of the church. Indeed our story could well 
lengthen itself into a small volume were all to be told which is of interest 
in our little town. We have tried to keep a class of facts which hold 
more than a passing and local interest. 

We have drawn for our material upon such published records as have 
been within our reach, and have consulted with persons who have knowl- 
edge of such points as may have been in dispute. 

Let us hope we have wronged no one in anything said or left unsaid, 
and have disseminated no more false facts than are unavoidable with the 
most conscientious historians. 



TOWX OF HIGHLANDS. 261 

CHAPTER XIX. 

TOWX OF HIGHLANDS. 

Dv C.M'T.MX Theodore F.\urot. 

THIS is one of the younger towns of Orange County, only those of 
Tuxedo antl Woodbury having been born later. It is, in fact, 
only about thirty-five years old. But for scenic beauty and native 
charm it easily outranks every other town in this county, if not all others 
on the Hudson River. The fame of the Hudson River Highlands is world- 
wide, and it is in this little town that the culmination of this native 
grandeur and picturesque beauty is reached. No one who has ever sailed 
up or down the Hudson, and who has not. will spend a moment wonder- 
ing why this township was thus named. 

The general shape or contour of the town, laterally, may be roughly 
classed as triangular. But the topographical surface is far more difficult 
to classify. It has the most extended river frontage of any town in the 
country, it being some nine or ten miles, beginning at Cro" Nest,, in the 
town of Cornwall on the north, and reaching below Fort Montgomery, 
to the Rockland County line. 

It is bounded on the north by the town of Cornwall, on the east by 
I he Hudson River, on the south by Rockland count}- and the town of 
Woodbury, and on the west by Woodbury. 

The art-a of this young town, as now estimated by the Orange super- 
visors, is 15.514 acres. In 1879 it was placed at 9.324^ acres. This 
fractional total would seem to indicate that a very careful survey had 
been made previous to that time. But nobody has been quite able to 
explain just how this unique engineering feat was accomplished. Look- 
ing at the town from the river, the task presents many features of serious 
im])(»rt. even to the mountain engineer. 

The whole thing was valued at $330,600 by the assessors of 1879. But 

if course there was nothing allowed for sentiment or native grandeur 

in that cold, Inisiness estimate. Perhaps such things really had no cash 

value at that time, if indeed they have now. The tax of the town that 

year amounted to $2,896.67. In 1906 the total value of this real estate 



262 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

was placed at $857,112. Upon this amount a tax of $8,610.67 was levied. 
This was made up as follows: $3,474.20, general fund; $4,423.37, town 
audits ; $250.02, sworn off taxes ; and $0.33, treasurer's credits. 

TITLE TO THE LANDS. 

Concerning these, previous to the Revolution, little is definitely known. 
The lands around the Point, from which West Point takes its name, and 
to the north and west thereof, were originally granted by the British 
Crown to Captain John Evans. In 1723 these lands, having been reas- 
sumed by the Crown, the larger portion was granted to Charles Con- 
greve upon condition that he, or his heirs and assigns, should settle there 
and cultivate at least three acres out of every fifty acres of land con- 
veyed to him in the grant. The inference is, therefore, that the first 
buildings at West Point were erected about that time. 

This Congreve tract comprised some 1,463 acres, which included the 
northern portion of the Point. But the records do not give the names of 
these early white settlers. In March, 1747, another portion of this John 
Evans tract, covering 332 acres, was granted to John ]\Ioore, on the same 
conditions contained in the first grant to Congreve. This tract adjomed 
the southwest corner of the Congreve Patent. John Moore afterward 
purchased the Congreve tract and thus became the owner of 1,790 acres 
in the vicinity of the Point. This he subsequently devised to his son, 
Stephen Moore, a merchant of Caswell, N. C. Then after a forty-year 
tenure of this land by the Moore family it was finally sold to the United 
States Government, pursuant to an act of Congress passed July 5, 1790. 
The deed of transfer was executed by Moore, December 10, of the same 
year. The price paid was $11,085. The necessity of this purchase was 
urged upon Congress by Alexander Hamilton, as Secretary of the Treas- 
ury, and also by Henry Knox, who was then Secretary of War, who 
finally conducted the negotiations for the purchase for the Government. 

Captain John Evans obtained his original grant on petition, March, 
1694, from Governor Dongan, who had purchased the land from the 
Esopus Indians. It was described as extending "from Murderer's Creek 
back," This stream finds the Hudson at Cornwall. Captain Gee, of the 
ancient sloop Federal, who brought stores to West Point between 1790 



TOWN OF HIGHLANDS. 263 

and iSio. sccnis lo have owned a dwelling house near the i'oinl aijnui 
that time, when it was known as Gee's Point. 

Adjoining the Congreve Patent on the south wa^ one of the six tracts 
originally granted to Gabriel and William Ludlow, October 18, 1731, 
under the conditions of settlement already named. This tract seems to 
have passed to many successive owners, as follows : 

Richard Williams, of Cornwall ; Robert Armstrong, of Sussex Counl\ , 
N. j. ; JJenjamin Rose, December i, 1785 ; John Dunlap. of Ulster County, 
September 6, 1788; and Thomas Xorth. of Cornwall, November 22, 
17U4. North also purchased an adjoining tract on the south from Isaiah 
Smith, June 3, 1790, and he h.eld the whole tract for nearly thirty years. 
Then it passed to Oliver Gridley, of Bergen County, N. J., Deceniber 28, 
1819. who deeded the same to the United States, May 13, 1824. in accord- 
ance with the act of Congress, approved ]^larch 10, of that year. 

At the time of the purchase of the Congreve and Moore grants by the 
Government. Hugh McClellan, a Revolutionary soldier, occupied a small 
house on the property. In recognition of his j)atriotic services in that 
war he was permitted to remain and cultivate his garden by Secretary of 
War John Knox. The old soldier spent the rest of his life there, leaving 
a wife antl a daughter on the jiremises. Thc}- finally claimed the domicile 
by right of undisputed possession under the laws of the State. But they 
w^ere finally clispossessed by the N^ational Government in 1830. in an 
action for ejectment. 

In addition to the patents already named the following list of grants, 
covering other parts of this town of Highlands, are found on the record : 
Gabriel and William Ludhnv. 991 acres. October 13. 1731 ; Alexander 
Phoenix, i.ooo acres. July 13. 1750; Ihomas Moore and Lewis Pintard, 
I, IOC acres, December 27,. 1762; Samuel Staats. 400 acres, June 5, 1712; 
Thomas Ellison, 770 acres, November 12. 1750: Richard Bradley. 800 
acres. July 30. 1743; Gabriel and William Ludlow. 407 acres. October 18, 
173 1 : X'incent and David Matthews, i.ooo acres. November 26. 1761 ; Ga- 
briel and William Ludlow, 1,437 acres. October 18. 1731 ; Bradley chil- 
dren, 4.290 acres. October 30. I74<): \'incent and David Matthews. 800 
acres. November 26, 1768; William and Edward Wilkin. 1,305 acres. 
April 15. 1768: John Osborne, 1.850 acres. March 14. 1775; Thomas 
Monrc and Le\\is Pintard. 2.90G acres. December 23, 1762; Smith and 
Wilkin. IOC acres. April 15. I7^'8: Afnore and Osborne. 150 acres. March 



264 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

14, 1775; Smith and Wilkin, J 90 acres, April 15, 176S; John Nelson, 550 
acres, October 4, 1752; Henry Townsend, 2,000 acres; Thomas Smith, 
250 acres, June 14, 1750; the Hassenclever & Co.'s tract, 1,000 acres, 1705. 

Captain Horace M. Reeve, of the general staff of the United States 
Army, in his history of V\'est Point during the Revolution, savs : "Until 
the American troops began to cut timber for military purposes, and to 
crown the surrounding hills with forts and redoubts, West Point and the 
neighboring Highlands were little else than a wilderness of rugged hills 
and virgin forests, presenting about the same appearance as first greeted 
Hendrik Hudson when, in 1609, he sailed up the river which now bears 
his name." 

Hudson anchored near West Point September 14, 1609, and he was 
probably the first European that ever saw that section. 

Continuing, Captain Reeve says : "Although this tract of country 
could never lend itself kindly to the agriculturist, yet before the advent 
of the American soldier there were several houses standino- at or near 
West Point, which were subsequently used for purposes very foreign to 
the peaceful intentions of their builders. Two of these became noted. 
One was 'Moore's House' at West Point, used by Washington as his 
headquarters during the whole, or a part, of the time he was stationed 
at West Point — from July 21, 1779, until November 28. The other was 
the 'Robinson House,' and was situated on the eastern shore of the Hud- 
son, aboiit two miles below West Point. It was used as a military hospital 
and afterward as the headquarters of several successive general officers, 
among whom was Benedict Arnold, who was in this house when apprised 
of Andre's capture. It was from this house that Arnold made his 
escape." 

The Moore house stood in Washington Valley, near the river, a short 
distance from the northeast corner of the present cemetery. It was built 
prior to 1749, and was a pretentious structure for that period, being 
known as "Moore's Folly." 

Every foot of land in these Highlands has its memories of the Revo- 
lutionary War, and this town contains the culminating features of native 
grandeur not only, but also the vital strategic point on the famous river 
which figured so conspicuously in the war for independence, and will 
continue to fill so many important pages of our national history for all 
time to come. 



r< )\\X UF HIGHLANDS. 265 

XAiTRAi. ri:.\TL-Ki:s. 

These great hills of gramlcur and Ix-auty cxicnd along the entire river 
frc>nt from Stony Point on the south lo old Slorm King on the north. 
Scientists tell us that these vast mountains of jjrimitive rock are com- 
posed of granite, gneiss and syenite, with veins of trap. Uut regarding 
the formation of these towering masses of rock Ijoth geologists and lay- 
men have only speculated and guessed for more than a century, as their 
descendants and successors will continue to do for ages to come, and 
leave the maze of mystery as dark and deep as ever. We can only wonder 
and admire, while scientists wrestle with the mighty problem of creation 
here presented. 

Just now, as the writer is gathering '"these data for this connected 
record, he finds that the great mystery concerning the formation of this 
particular region has become even more obscure than ever through the 
developments of the vast engineering project now under way off Storm 
King Mountain. In the effort to find a solid rock bottom beneath the 
Hudson at this gate of the Highlands, through which to construct the 
great aqueduct which is to convey the Catskill Mountain water to New 
York City, the engineers have bored the river bottom to a depth of 700 
feet, and are still baffled. Geologists predicted that this rock would be 
foimd at least at 500 feet. But now they are all at sea and frankly admit 
that their supposed knowledge as to the bed of the Hudson at tliis point 
was totally wrong. Some expected that rock would be reached even at 
100 feet. But now the engineers say they may have to go dowui 4,000 
feet before they can find proper rock through which to build their aque- 
duct which is to carry 800,000,000 gallons of water daily at a pressure of 
200 feet per square inch. The old bed of the river is evidently covered 
with the drift and silt of ages. And who will say when and how this 
vast body of water broke through these adamantine hills, or l>y what 
Cyclopean process of upheaval they were formed? 

There are several small streams that flow into the Hudson at diflfer- 
ent points in this town; one just south of Cro' Xest. others at Highland 
Falls and I'ort MontgomerN . The pretty cataract. crJled "nuttermilk 
Falls," from its characteristic resemblance to that acidulous fluid, as it 
tumbles over the rockv shelves in fantastic glee in its haste to reach 
the river, is admired bv everv tourist. There are also other .'Streams which 



266 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

become tributaries of Popolopen's Creek, which hnds the Hudson at Fort 
Montg-omery. 

The town also contains many inland ponds or small lakes, such as 
Bog Meadow Pond, Round Pond, Long- Pond, Cranberry Pond, Mine 
Pond, Popolopen Lake and Highland Lake. Strangely enough, many of 
these ponds have been left without more appropriate names. This High- 
land Lake, just south of Fort Montgomery, is about 150 feet above the 
Hudson, and about half a mile long by one-eighth of a mile wide, and is 
fed by its own sijrings. "Flood l^ake" and "Flessian Lake" are some of 
its more ancient appellations, bestowed, according to Revolutionary tra- 
dition, because of a company of Hessians who were slain there when Sir 
Henry Clinton captured Fort Montgomery. 

It is now proposed by the New York authorities to locate a new State 
Prison in the vicinity of this lake, which is northwest of lona Island in 
the Hudson. Most of the region in that immediate section is a wild 
rocky forest, and sparsely populated. Half a mile or more west of the 
river, however, there is a comparatively level plateau, some 200 acres in 
extent, from which a fine view of both reaches of the Hudson is obtained. 
This is included in the site which has been selected for the prison. Part 
of it, however, extends over into Rockland County. 

This property, which consists of some 500 acres, was purchased by the 
State for this prison site, in December, 1907, at a cost of $75,000. It is 
about six miles below Highland Falls, and it includes Highland Lake and 
its entire watershed. Whether the name of this new prison will be se- 
lected from the classic nomenclature which prevails in that locality, such 
as "Doodletown," or "Popolopen," remains to be seen. 

"Doodletown Bight," is the classic name handed down from the Co- 
lonial period, which is here applied to a small bay in the Hudson where 
small water craft find a safe and pleasant harbor. The new State road 
which is to run from the New Jersey line to Albany, will pass through 
the eastern side of this new prison tract. Bear Mountain, on the west, 
has an inexhaustible supply of granite well suited for building purposes. 

EARLY SETTLEMENT. 

As before stated, the ancient records are almost devoid of names of 
early settlers in this immediate region, and the presumption is that these 
settlers were comparatively few. Major Boynton, in his history of West 



TOWN OF HIGHLANDS. 267 

roim. sa\s : "'riic interval between the grantin;..,' of the patents anil the 
transfer of the titles, clown to the period at which the American Revolu- 
tion commenced, are blanks in historical literature. Xo traditions even 
of early settlers are extant, and the probabilities arc that, beyond a set- 
tlement made to secure a site or grant. West Point, being in a region 
of stratified rocks, heavily covered with drift deposits, and without a suit- 
able soil for cultivation, remained a mere woodland tract, possessing no 
higher value than attaches to similar adjoining points in the Highlands 
which have remained unsettled and uncultivated to this day." 

It seems well settled, however, that John Moore, the patentee, really 
located upon his purchase about 1725. This homestead stood in what 
has since been known as Washington X'alley, from the fact that Wash- 
ington once occupied the same dw-elling for a time. The original house, 
and even the second one, which replaced it, have long since disappeared, 
but the remains of the old cellar were visible for many years afterward. 
This, then, may be regarded as the first point of settlement in the town of 
Highlands. The Moore descendants, though inclined toward loyalism. 
at the outbreak of the war, could not have been outspoken or turbulent 
in their opposition to the American cause, as their lands were not con- 
fiscated. They, how^ever, soon fled to Nova Scotia, but afterward re- 
turned to the State of North Carolina, where some of them became prom- 
inent, one being elected Governor of the State ; and Stephen ^loore sold 
the West Point reservation to the Government, as already stated. A 
daughter of John ^Moore married Hugh ]\IcClellan about the time the 
war broke out. Although not in the army, as a soldier, AlcClellan seems 
to have fought bravely against the invaders on his own hook, as it were, 
for the records contain many instances of his personal prowess. He was 
employed in hauling stone for the erection of Fort Putnam, and on one 
occasion he crossed the river alone and brought powder for the Conti- 
nental Army at West Point at the risk of his life or capture. 

James Denton, who came from Newburgh. seems to have settled at the 
Point some time afterward. He had married into the McClellan family 
and became active in pressing the claim against the Government for the 
title to the old homestead there by reason of possession. These descendants 
also claimed certain rights which came from the Moore family direct ami 
were not reserved in the deed to the Government, although antedating 
that transaction, as thev contended. Then, too, it mav be added in their 



268 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

behalf, the suit for ejectment was terminated by a compromise, the widow 
of McClellan being paid a certain sum to surrender her claim. 

In the vicinity of Highland Falls Cornelius Swim seems to have been 
the pioneer settler. This family originally came from England about 
1686 and settled on the east side of the Hudson opposite West Point, 
forming part of a colony there. They were olTered an extensive tract 
of land there at that time for ten cent.s an acre. But not being pos- 
sessed even of this modest amount of money, they were afterward obliged 
to leave when a more fortunate immigrant took the tract at fifteen cents 
per acre. The Swims, Faurots and Roses came to Highlands in 1725. 
Cornelius Swim had six sons and six daughters, most of whom settled 
in the vicinity. He was finally killed by a British scout fen* refusing to 
tell where certain army supplies were hidden. 

Cornelius Gee was another ante-Revolutionary settler ai W^est Point, 
who came from the Colony opposite. He afterward established a ferry 
from West Point, then known as "Gee's Point," to Constitution Island 
opposite, being associated with Jacob Nelson in the enterprise. This 
was called "Nelson's F'erry." Nelson also lived in the colony on the east 
shore of the river opposite the Point and he had seven children. Only 
one of these, however, seems to have settled on the west side of the 
river. This ancient ferry is frequently mentioned in the Revolutionary 
annals ; and Nelson's Point opposite Fort Arnold, afterward Fort Clin- 
ton, was regarded as a most important strategic point b}- Washington, 
which he carefully guarded. 

Tradition has a pleasant little Highland "tea story" connected with 
this Gee family which may as well be perpetuated here. "Aunt Sally 
Gee" was the happy possessor of half-a-pound of this most delectable 
and very scarce beverage that caused so much trouble between the 
mother country and her dependent Colonies on this side of the Atlantic, 
at the outbreak of hostilities. It is said that while the flames that were 
destroying Fort Montgomery illuminated this entire region, announc- 
ing the triumph of the British forces, "Aunt Sally", giving up all as 
lost, resolved upon having a final cup of tea to assuage her grief be- 
fore fleeing for her life. Grabbing the old teapot from the shelf, she 
tossed the entire, half-pound of tea into it in her haste, determined 
that n.one should be left for the redcoats. But the decoction proved 
all too strong and bitter even for her tea-stained palate. 



TOWN OF HIGHLANDS. 269 

An early pioneer in tiie West Grove section was John Kronkhite, 
who came, about the opening of the war, from Westchester County, N. Y. 
Some of his descendants are still in that region. Moses Clark was 
another early settler there, whose name appears in the Cornwall records 
between 1765 and 1775, which would indicate that he arrived some 
^ears before the war. Tobias Weygant is also mentioned as an early 
West Grove settler. Among other early settlers in the town were Tho- 
mas and Joseph Collins, W'illiam Cooper, who lived near Fort Mont- 
gomery, Thomas Cooper, Isaac Garrison, who livetl in the Middle High- 
lands section, Jonas Garrison, William Horton, Zaccheus Horton, Mau- 
rice Havens, David June, who lived near the Rockland county line, 
D. Lancaster, John Parker, Israel Rose, Samuel Rockwell, S. Sheldon, 
Birdseye Young and James Stout. Isaac Faurot was also an ancient 
resident in the Highland Falls section, who was a deckhand on the 
first steamboat "Cleremont" that went up the Hudson under Captain 
Wiswell in 1807. Captain I-"aurot, a descendant, is still a resident of 
Highland Falls. 

ORGAXIZATION OF THE TOWN, 

Like several other of the younger tow^ns in Orange county. High- 
lands was the offsj^ring of convenience and expediency. Its formation 
became in fact almost a matter of public necessity owing to the pecu-" 
liar conditions prevailing. The old town of Cornwall consisted of a 
thickly settled region north of the mountains, and the wi lely separated 
localities of Highland Falls and Fort Montgomery far to the south. 
Communication between these two ends of the township was in those 
days very slow and inconvenient. The transaction of official business 
of the town was very expensive and almost impracticable. Boats had 
to be chartered to carry voters to the town meetings. Thus the division 
of the town, which was authorized by the c<iunty supervisors in 1S72, 
met with little opposition. 

The first town meeting rif the new town was held at the house of 
Charles Engleskircher, March 4. 1873. William Avery was then chosen 
the first Supervisor, and a full list of town official was selected. Avery 
was succeeded by Jeremiah Drew in 1874, who continued in the office 
several years. John A. Cook held the office one term and was followed 
by Hon. Louis F. Goodsell. who was supervisor eighteen years. Jacob 



2-jo THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

L. Hicks was elected in 1905 and was succeeded by John F. Pierce in 
the closely contested election of 1907. 

VILLAGES OF THE TOWN. 

Of these, West Point, if it can be called a village, is the more import- 
ant. A post-office was established here at an early period of the nation's 
history. Major Roger Alden was the postmaster for some years, and 
was followed by Mr. Hoh. In 1835 Prof. Claudius Berard succeeded 
to the office and held it until his death in 1848. His widow was then 
appointed and remained in office until 1870 when she was succeeded 
by A. B. Berard, who was still there in 1880. 

The place is composed almost entirely of the great Military School 
of the nation in all its varied departments and imposing structures. 
Aside from this there is very little business, except that arising from 
the extensive improvements now in progress by the government. The 
noted old West Point hotel is still standing, and in operation, although 
even this is soon to be demolished under the plans for the modern re- 
construction of the post, which are being carried out on a vast scale and 
at great expense. 

The importance of West Point during the Revolutionary period 
is too well understood by every student of our national history to need 
any further emphasis or exemplification in tliis connection. It is visited 
by thousands from every land annuall}^ as the great show-place of the 
nation and river. And the rare native charm of its location enshrines 
it as the beauty spot of America. 

Busy Highland Falls, adjoining West Point on the south, was in- 
corporated in 1907. It is located on the Big Aleadow Brook which 
tumbles over the rocks into the Hudson at this point in a most attrac- 
tive cataract, which gave the village its name. It was first known as 
"Buttermilk Falls,"' under which name the post-office was established 
there July 14, 1849. Cornelius Nelson was the first postmaster, but Presi- 
dent Buchanan removed him and appointed Timothy O'Leary in his 
place. He was reinstated, however, at the close of Buchanan's term, and 
held the office in all about thirty vears. Joseph F. Stephens, the present 
postmaster was appointed in 1901. Although still invested with much 
historic charm because of its 200 vears' existence, the village now pre- 



TOWX OF ]II(ilI[:.\XDS. 271 

sents a pleasing modern aspect. There are many business houses, 
stores and shops. There are two national banks, both organized in 
1907. A library and reading room, antl a village improvement society. 
A weekly newspaper was established in 1891. South of the village 
overlooking the Hudson are some charming private residences including 
those of John Iligelow, Major General Roe, ex-Senator Goodsell and 
J. rierpont Morgan. The place is a favored summer region because 
of its picturesque natural environment. The most imposing structure 
in the village is Ladycliff Academy conducted by the Franciscan Sisters. 
This property was originally Cozzen's and later Cranston's Hotel, and 
was purchased and opened for its present purpose in 1900. Extensive 
additions and improvements have since been made. The enclosed grounds 
cover an area of twenty-two acres. There is an average attendance of 
one hundred and ninety pupils, and the regular courses give the edu- 
cation acquired in advanced high schools. 

The old Revolutionary Fort ^[ontgomery, which stood on Popolopen's 
Creek, where the stream empties into the Hudson, is perpetuated by 
a small hamlel with the same name. It makes no boast of its business im- 
portance and points only to its patriotic history. It is, however, the ship- 
ping point of large quantities of iron ore from tlie Forest of Dean Mines _ 
some six miles west of this point. 

^^V.st Grove is a pretty hamlet in the mountain section northwest of 
Highland F^'alls. It was settled at an early date and the environment is 
among some of the attractive lakes and ponds of the town. 

SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES. 

I-\)r the school records i)ertaining to this sjx'cihc region between 1S13 
and 1856, the reader is referred to the parent town of Cornwall. There 
are three common school districts in the present town, in addition to the 
Post school at West Point which is maintained for the children of 
the soldiers and officers of the post. District Xo. 2 comprises the High- 
land Falls and Fort Montgomery .schools. George W. F'lood, school 
commissioner for the eastern district of Orange County, is a resident 
of Highland Falls. 

The First Presbyterian Society was incorporated October 12, 1830, with 
William Flowe, of Buttermilk Falls. Samuel Spencer of West Point and 



272 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Peter Meeks of West Grove as trustees. It was decided to erect two 
churches for the better convenience of the separate settlements, one 
near Buttermilk Falls, and the other in the Fort Montgomery section. 
These churches were open to other denominations under certain regula- 
tions. In 1850 the society was reorganized under the name of "The 
First Presbyterian Church of the Highlands." The following trustees 
were then chosen : David Parry, Cornelius Nelson, Charles P. Smith, 
Alexander Mearns, and John M. Hall. The Rev. E. P. Roe, the famous 
novelist, who then lived on his fruit farm in Cornwall, was the pastor 
of this church for several years, being succeeded by Rev. Mr. Williams. 

The First MetJiodist Church at Fort Montgomery was incorporated 
January 11, 1831, with the following trustees: Thomas Potter, Ebenezer 
Bull, Michael Jaquish, Hiram Tyler and Silas Rockwell. A comfortable 
house of worship was built soon afterward. 

The First Methodist Church at Buttermilk Falls began its career 
March 4, 1845, with Andrew Swim, David Parry, James Thackara, 
Charles P. Smith and Wright Dusenbury as trustees. But for some 
reason the society disbanded soon afterward and the members united 
with other churches. 

The present Methodist Church at the Falls came into existence some 
years later, and it continues in a flourishing condition. 

The Church of the Holy Iiuwceufs (Episcopal), at Highland Falls, 
was incorporated September 13, 1850, Robert W. Weir and Thomas Webb 
being chosen wardens, and Deiuiis 'M. Mahar, W. H. C. Bartlett, A. E. 
Church, Francis Rider, R. S. Agnew, Thomas Corris, B. R. Alden and 
R. S. Smith, vestrymen. The church building, which was erected largely 
through the liberality of Prof. Weir of the Alilitary Academy, was com- 
pleted in July, 1847. being' constructed of the native granite. 

The Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart was erected opposite the old 
Cozzens Hotel, at the Falls, in 1875, at a cost of $19,000. Rev. T. J. 
Early became the first settled pastor. 

"molly pitcher.'' 

The oft-told story of this stout, freckle-faced young Irish patriot of the 
Revolution is so closely identified with the ancient history of this locality, 
where she lived and died, that its omission here, even in this modern 
historv, would be noted with regret. 



TOWN OF HIGHLANDS. 273 

At the capture of I'ort Clinton by the British in October, 1777, "Molly" 
was "in at the finish." When the enemy scaled the parapet, her husband, 
an artilleryman, dropped his portfire and fled. But Molly caught it up 
and discharged the last gun fired. Nine months later, at the Monmouth 
battle, while she was devotedly bringing water to her husband, who was 
serving a gun, he fell dead at her feet from a British shot. Although the 
officer in command ordered the piece withdrawn, Molly dropped her 
water-bucket, seized the rammer, and vowed she would fill lier husband's 
place at the gun and thus avenge his death. Next morning, covered 
with dirt and blood, she was presented to Washington by General Greene, 
and was appointed a sergeant and placed upon the half-pay list for lite. 
She became a universal favorite with the army and usually appeared in 
artillery dress, with a cocked hat. She was afterward provided for at 
the Point by the Government authorities and died in that vicinity about 
the age of thirty-three. 

WEST POINT MILITARY ACADEMY. 

Colonel Henry Knox, who was appointed chief of artiller}' by Washing- 
ton in November, 1775, was the first to propose the establishment of a 
military academy, of the Woolwich type, in this country. In a letter to 
his wife, dated September 5, 1776, he said: "We must have a standing 
army. The militia get sick, or think themselves so, and run home." 
Later in the same month, in a letter to Adams, he wrote: "Military 
academies must be instituted at any expense. We are fighting against 
a people well acquainted with the theory and practice of war, and brave 
by discipline and habit." 

Here was the germ of the Military Academy of this nation In the 
following October a committee was appointed to "prepare and bring in a 
plan of a military academy at the army." The Post of West Point re- 
ceived its first garrison January 20, 1778, and work on Fort Clinton was 
begun at once. There seems no room for doubt that in the very midst 
of the Revolutionary War, at least as early as 1780, and possibly two 
years before, an engineer school was in operation at West Point. There 
were also a laboratory and library, which was the parent of the present 
Academy Library, the oldest Government library in the United States. 
It is clear that military instruction of some sort had then begim. Early 
in 1783, when the success of the American Revolution was apparent, the 



274 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

necessity for this permanent school of mihtary education was still recog- 
nized. General Washington and his officers were agreed upon the im- 
portance of some such school, and West Point was generally regarded 
as the ''key to the United States." In 1783 the necessity of retaining 
West Point for this purpose was urged upon Congress. General Knox, 
Secretary of War in 1790, again advocated the scheme in his report, 
which was approved by Washington. But it was not until March 16, 
1802, that the organic act for the establishment of the United States 
Military Academy was finally passed. This authorized the President to 
organize and establish a corps of engineers at West Point which should 
constitute a Military Academy. 

Thus in 1802 ten Cadets of engineers were stationed at West Point 
with their officers, which constituted the Military Academy there until 
1812. This force was increased from time to time, and the sum of 
$25,000 was finally appropriated for the erection of suitable buildings, 
and the provision of the library, apparatus and necessary instruments for 
the use of the school. 

Previous to this, however, while Washington, Randolph, Knox and 
Hamilton strongly favored the West Point Academy plan, Jefferson 
doubted the constitutionality of the scheme. But Washington was in- 
clined to take the risk, and at his recommendation the West Point School 
was practically started in 1794, it being then held in the old provost prison 
building, which was burned in April, 1796. The school seems to have 
begun in earnest, however, in February of that year. The fire, which 
had destroyed all the books and apparatus, was thought to have been of 
incendiary origin, induced perhaps by opposition to the school. In the 
following May a parapet for the practice of field pieces, and some of the 
early wooden fortifications were constructed. 

In September, 1799, the superintendency of this academy, which how- 
ever had not yet been legally established, was offered by President 
Adams to Count Rumford, the founder of the Royal Military Academy 
of Munich. But nothing came of this ill-advised proposition. For nearly 
25 years Washington had labored to establish a National Military 
Academy, which he considered of primary importance. 

On December 14, 1801, Major WilTiams, a grand-nephew of Benjamin 
Franklin, took charge of the school as superintendent. Cadet John 
Lillie, writing of his life there from 1801 to 1805, said: "All order and 



TOWN OF HIGHLANDS. 275 

regulation, either moral or religious, gave way to idleness, dissipation 
and irrcligion. No control over the conduct of the officers and cadets was 
exercised." 

As already stated the academy was legally instituted March 16, 1802, 
and the school went into full operation on the 4th of the following July. 
But its ancient history really dates from 1776. The act of 1812 estab- 
lished its present form, the main features of which have been practically 
adhered to to this day. Washington is still regarded as its founder, 
while Knox first proposed and strongly advocated a military school of 
this very type, and Hamilton outlined the well-considered plan of military 
education that was finally adopted and has been pursued ever since. 



276 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XX. 

TOWN OF MINISINK. 

By Charles E. Stickney. 

derivation of the name. 

THE derivation of the name Minisink is undoubtedly from the 
Delaware valley, which was the "Minisink" country of its Indian 
owners. They had a large village and castle on the Jersey side 
of the Delaware River, opposite a large island in the river, both that and 
the village being known to them and to the early white settlers by the 
name "Minisink." They were a sub-division of the Lenni-Lenape tribe 
that somehow became known later by the name of Delaware, from an 
English lord, who visited the mouth of the river about five minutes once, 
and left his unmerited name to the river and its valley as well as to the 
tribe of Indians about it. In truth a most foolish freak upon the part of 
the white people, who had far more deserving names to give, if they 
wished to observe and reward more daring explorers. Foolish, too, be- 
cause the Indian names were just as beautiful, even more so than that of 
the old lord. 

This sub-division of the Lenni-Lenape Indians was called the Minsi 
(wolf), and they were easily recognized from other tribes by the white 
people. In 1663 when Wiltwyck (now Esopus or Rondout) was attacked, 
its white settlers declared that they saw the Munsey (Minsi) Indians 
among their assailants. 

In front of their village on the river flats south of the island lay their 
great national cemetery covering acres of ground, where many genera- 
tions of their nation lay entombed. Some of them were buried so close 
to the river that the sweep of its current often washed away the dirt and 
exposed their bones as the writer saw them. The early white people 
in the valley, all German, at first assumed that the name Minsi, pronounced 
by them "munsey," was derived from the fact that the water had at some 
time been drained by the Water Gap from the lands in the valley and 
that the name was derived from "the water is gone." We have never 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 277 

fouml any corroboration of thai theory. The village was the source of 
the name, but what is meant in the Lenni-Lenape language we probably 
shall never know. I""rom their village the white settlers applied it to the 
whole valley. 

William Tietsort, whom they induced to settle among them near pres- 
ent Port Jervis, and do their blacksmithing, in 1690, found the name 
there. Arent Schuyler, who has left on recortl his diary of the visit he 
made there to find whether the French spies had been there from Canada, 
said of it: "1694 ye 6th, Tuesday. I continued my journey to Maghack- 
emeck (Indian name for the neighborhood of the junction of the Never- 
sink with the Delaware) and from thence to within half-a-day's journey 
of the Minisink." A half-day's journey would about represent the dis- 
tance to the village and castle of the tribe mentioned, and where he was 
bound. 

The Indians who occupied the territory in these three towns were one 
of the three divisions of the Lenni-Lenapes. On the first map of the 
country made they were called Maquas, which was later corrected to 
Munscys and by the English to Minsies. The name of their headquarters, 
Minisink, has come down to us from all the various languages spoken by 
white settlers as Minisink. That corroborates it as an original Indian 
word. Every clan or sub-division of the tribes used an accent of their 
own. so that they were easily distinguished, but the difference was not 
so radical but that the whole Lenni-Lenape people could understand each 
other. Therefore the name Minisink was a name known over a vast 
region before the white people came here. Its meaning is a mystery 
which all linguists can guess at with some probability of nearness. 

ORGANIZATION AND BOUNDARIES. 

June 23rd, 1664, this region belonged to Holland, at least that country 
claimed it; but Charles, then King of England, deeded that day, to his 
brother, James, Duke of York, a tract "to the northward as far as the 
northernmost branch of the Delaware River in 41 degrees and 40 minutes 
north latitude, thence in a straight line to Hudson's River, to be called 
"Nova Cesaria" or New Jersey. England sent over a fleet and captured 
the whole country in this vicinity a little later the same year, and that 
made the Duke's patent valid. 



278 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The region under consideration was then a dreary forest, but land 
speculators soon began to deal in tracts of it, and New York Province 
claimed that the line, 41.40 latitude north to the northernmost branch of 
the Delaware River, ran from its beginning on Hudson's River to the 
mouth of the Lehigh River (which they asserted was the branch of the 
Delaware referred to in the deed) where is now Easton, Pa. 

On the other side the owners of New Jersey claimed that the branch 
referred to in the deed was a tributary of the Delaware River at what 
IS now Cochecton, N. Y. It will be seen that this disputed territory was 
of great extent, the apex of the triangle on the Htidson River widening 
out to a base of near 50 miles from present Easton to present Cochecton. 
In this triangle was comprised nearly all of what we now call Sussex 
County, N. J., and, according to the New Jersey claim, taking in the pres- 
ent city of Port Jervis and about all of the present towns of Greenville 
and Minisink. The great dispute as to the ownership of this triangle 
lasted for a hundred years and its tales of warfare and contests in 
courts are of great interest, but not altogether pertinent to our subject. 
The start upon Hudson's River is thus mentioned m N. J. Archives, Vol. 
I, page 531, in 1685-6: "Gawen Lawrie of New Jersey, Governor Dongan 
of New York and others" fixed at a point nigh Colonel William Merrit's 
house (see mention in first census of Orange County) on the west side of 
the Hudson River and "marked with a penknife on a beech tree standing 
by a small run." How different surveyors could locate the degree of lat- 
itude from thence to such widely different points was explained in old 
documents to be the fault of the crude quadrants then used. 

In 1704 Queen Anne of England granted 23 persons a patent (deed), 
for a tract of land which was named "Minisink," because it embraced the 
land in Minisink along the Delaware River down as far as Big Minisink 
island, and as far north as Peenpack (a nickname for the Gumaer set- 
tlement on the Neversink). March 20th, 1765, Alexander Colden, of 
New York, said of this patent. Vol. Ill, p. 988, Documentary History 
of New York: "It contains not less than 250,000 acres, under the very 
small Quit-rent of nine pounds current money of this Province." 

The Wawayanda patent had been granted the previous year (1703) to 
12 men and the Minisink patent lapped upon it, hence we may well con- 
clude that the quarrel between the Provinces of New York, New Jersey, 
the owners of the Minisink patent and those of the Wawayanda patent 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 279 

made a very mixed question of title. There does not appear to have 
been an\- severe contests in the three towns of whicli we write between 
indivichial land owners, excei)t those of the large patents. In 1767 the 
Provinces of New York and New Jersey appointed commissioners to run 
out a compromise line settled upon to run from the apex of the triangle 
on Hudson River to the present station at Tri-states, which was done and 
that line has since remained as the boundary between the two States. 
Titles derived from the Miiiisink patent south of that line were void, but 
the titles of landholders in the tlirec towns were all derived from the 
New York patentees, hence there followed no c'onfusion. 

During the Revolution there were few changes in county matters, but 
March 7th, 1788. the legislature of the State enacted that subdivisions of 
counties should be called towns instead of precincts. By that act Orange 
County was divided into the towns of Haverstraw. Orangetown. Goshen, 
New Cornwall. Warwick and Minisink. The southern boundary of the 
latter was the State line of New York and New Jersey. 

The town of Minisink under that formation was bounded on the east 
by the Wallkill River, northeast and north by the town of Wallkill and 
the Ulster County line around on the northwest to the Delaware River, 
and the State line. 

In 1798 the town of Deer Park was created and it cut off from Mini- 
sink its over-mountain lands, which had belonged to old ]\Iinisink. and 
thus cut off the base whence the name had been derived. Since then the 
town has held to the name, a reminder of its old associations and of being 
once the home of a part of the Minsi Indian tribe. 

In 1825 the town of Calhoun was formed principally from Deer Park 
and Wallkill. and formed part of the boundary of Minisink on the north. 
In 1833 the name of Calhoun was changed to Mount Hope. 

In 1840 the town of Wawayanda was erected from the northeastern 
portion of Minisink, and took the place of Wallkill in the boundary of the 
former. 

In 1853 the town of Greenville was taken from the westerly portion of 
Minisink, and fixed the bounrlarics of the latter as they now are. 

GE0GRAPPI1C.\L. 

The line between the States previously referred to. on a westerly course 
has set-offs to avoid great obstacles in some places, but where it boimds 



28o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Minisink it is a straight line. It crosses the Wallkill a short distance 
south of Unionville. 

Millsburg, is a small village, named from the large mills once located 
on Botidinot's Creek at that place. Extensive saw-mills, grist, cider, 
and plaster mills, were for a long time kept there by John Racine, and 
did a very large business for years after his death. They are now gone. 
Down stream a short distance were other grist and saw mills, of which 
one, a grist mill, is still in existence and managed by Frank Mead. A lit- 
tle farther down the stream were once very large woolen carding and 
fulling mills, where cloth was made of the finest quality. These are 
now in ruins. 

Boudinot's Creek has gone by various names, such as Indegot and 
Bandegot, but antiquarians have now settled upon the derivation of the 
name from Elias Boudinot, and the probabilities are that they are right. 
Elias was a merchant in New York City, and speculated in the lands out 
in the wilderness, as many others were doing in those times. The records 
show that he bought, June loth, 1704, of Philip Rokeby, one-third of his 
share in the Wawayanda patent; also, August 8th, 1707, a twelfth part 
of the patent. He soon sold out his interests in the patent and so far as 
we have been able to find, never saw the creek in question, and he cer- 
tainly never made a settlement in this county. 

Rutger's Creek was undoubtedly named from the circumstance of 
Anthony Rutger's buying of the widow and son of John Merrit, one-half 
of the one-twelfth of the Wawayanda patent allotted to Daniel Honan, 
who had in 1705 sold it to Merrit. 

The creek in question rises in the town of Greenville and flows east- 
ward near Unionville, where it takes a northeasterly course through 
Waterloo Mills, Westtown, Johnson's, and then southerly through Gard- 
nersville to the Wallkill. Its Indian name is not known. 

Tunkamoose Creek, a small tributary of the Wallkill near Unionville, 
has what is claimed to be an Indian name, but we cannot verify it. 

The Wallkill is said by Haines to have drawn its name from some 
families of Walloons who settled by it, and it has also had various other 
derivations alleged. Its Indian name is well known. In the very early 
surveys about Franklin Furnace, N. J., in 1712-15, the surveyors have 
written the name plainly, Twischsawkin. That this name was not of a 
mere local application is shown by the fact that on a map accompanying 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 281 

Smith's History of Xew Jersey, made and published in London, Char- 
ing Cross, by Wilham Faden, December ist, 1777, from surveys made in 
1769 by the commissioners who ran the State hne, the name Twischsawkin 
is appHed to the stream. On that map there is not a settlement marked 
from Goshen to jMackhackcmeck in this county. In Sussex County the set- 
tlement of the Walling brothers, where Joseph Walling kept an inn, now 
Hamburg, X. J., is marked "Wallins." They were located there some- 
where about 1725-1730, and a brother settled in this town of Minisink at 
about the same time, by the river. We take him to have been the first 
settler in the town, and mention is made of him later. The true derivation 
of the name Wallkill is due to their settlements. The name "Wallins" 
was known far and wide to the stragglers who first came into the neigh- 
borhood and the river that ran by their locations, first called by visitors, 
Wallinskill, about 1750 got abbreviated to "Wallkill." The Walloons 
spoken of by Haines were undoubtedly "Wallins." The Indian name 
Twischsawkin has been interpreted to mean "'abundance of wild plums." 
A land abounding in snakes comes nearer its true meaning in our study of 
the Minsi language. 

Unionville village, assumed to be derived from the union of good feel- 
ings following the settlement of the line between the States of New York 
and New Jersey, is near that line, and is believed to have been settled 
about 1738. It now has three stores, two hotels, coal and feed stores, a 
system of waterworks owned by a private company, three churches, and 
other places of business. It was incorporated as a village in 1871, Septem- 
ber 26th. Isaac Swift was the first president. 

Westtown, a village so named because it was situate<l at the western 
limit of the settlements when Goshen was headquarters of civilization in 
the county, has three stores, two churches, one hotel. 

Johnsons, so-named after William Johnson who gave the land for the 
Middletown, Unionville & Water Gap Railroad when it passed through the 
town where the depot is now located, has three good stores, two feed 
and coal stores, one hotel, and Borden's large milk and cream plant, and 
is a place of considerable business. 

Gardnersville. on Rutger's Creek, about two and a half miles southeast 
of Johnsons, is mostly in the town of Wawayanda. and derived its name 
from the Gardner family who once owned extensive grist, .saw anfl cider 
mills there. It is now mainlv known from the feed mills of Tohn R. Man- 



282 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ning, at present its principal industry. In the early settlement of the coun- 
try there was a defensive place near, known as Fort Gardner. Its location 
is not precisely known. In some records it is spoken of as being southward 
from where Westtown now is. It was most probably at Gardnersville. 
An old stone building- on the late Lain farm is the "Fort Gardner," says 
one tradition. 

Waterloo Mills (derivation of name unknown) since the decline of the 
milling industry has nothing now to show of its former important grist 
mills btit the ruins. 

FIRST SETTLEMENT AND POPULATION. 

Of the first settler in the present territory of this county, Patrick Mac- 
Gregorie, whose brother-in-law, David Toshuck, is spoken of in Rut- 
tenber & Clark's History of Orange County (p. 13) as having "closed his 
earthly career in the bosom of his family at Plum Point," we desire to 
mention. In New Jersey Archives, Vol. I, p. 460, it says: "David Toshuck, 
of Moneyweard, partner with James, Earl of Perth, Captain Patrick Mac- 
Gregorie, all sharers in Proprieties," were so mentioned in 1864. In a note 
on Vol. IX, p. T^^y, mention is made of the will of Edward Antill proven 
in New York, April 7th, 1725, wherein he gives his wife all his interest 
in a "certain proprietyship formerly purchased of David Toshuck, laird 
of Minnevarre." On p. 338 it is stated that Edward Antill, Jr., came 
into the possession of the laird of Minnevarre's broad acres at Raritan 
landing in Middlesex County where he spent the most of his life." Don- 
ald Macquirrish, of Murderer's Creek," is mentioned with David Toshuck, 
of Minnevarre, Scotland, in a deed dated March 13th, 1687. From all 
wdiich we have doubts as to the death of the aforesaid David Toshuck at 
Plum Point. 

Governor Dongan bought, October 25, 1684, of three Indians, one of 
whom was Joghem or Keghgekapowell, for ninety pounds and eleven 
shillings in goods, all the land from the mouth of Murderer's Creek on 
the Hudson, to a "water pond upon the said hills called Meretange." The 
latter is the present Binnewater pond in Greenville. This purchase em- 
braced about thirty by forty miles of the territory of Orange precinct, 
and a part of the lands in three towns. It lapped on other grants also. 
September 12, 1694, he sold it to Captain John Evans. In the latter sale 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 283 

went a house on I'Kini Point, whicli Cajitain MacGregorie had built tlicre 
on his land by advice of that very Governor, who also sold the land with- 
out any scruple. 

Lord Ikdloniont. in reviewing the transaction afterwards in writing 
January 2, 1701. to the Lords of Trade, said: 

"Capt. Evans's great grant of 40 miles one way and 30 another, has but 
one house on it, or rather a hut, where a poor man lives, built by Patrick 
MacGregorie, a Scotchman, who was killed at the time of the Revolution 
here, and his widow compelled to sell her house and land to Capt. Evans 
for 30 or 35 pounds." 

The foregoing was not only a concise history of the first settlement in 
this county, but it was in reality the first census, and shows that then, 
1 70 1, there was not a single person in the limits of our three towns as a 
permanent settler. It may be said in apparent contradiction that a census 
taken by Bellomont in 1698 showed this county to have in it 29 men, 31 
women, 140 children and 19 negroes. They were all located along the 
Hudson River, in what is now Rockland County. Yet there was at that 
time a blacksmith, William Tietsort (Titsw'orth), in Minisink, near where 
Port Jervis now stands, who had settled there in 1698 at the request of 
the Indians to work at his trade for them. In 1703, the county had 268 
people in it; in 1712. 439. The Gumaer patent was settled on in the 
Neversink valley by this time, but there is no record of any settler in our 
three towns at that time. In 1723 the census showed 1,097 white and 147 
colored people in the county. The owners of the big patents used great 
inducements to get settlers to locate on their land, and it is probable 
that some were in our territory but not of record. In 1737 there were 
2,840; and in 1746. 3.268 people in the county. 

Inman \\'alling was a settler, probably 1725-1730, by the W'allkill. east 
of present Westtown, and John Whitaker died in 1742 near where 
LTnionville now is, and had been a resident there, no one knows how long. 
His will on record in the surrogate's office in Goshen, liber A. page 221, 
mentions his wife Eve, sons Richard. Peter and John. :uid daughters Jean 
and Elizabeth. Their descendants are yet residents of the town and of 
Sussex County adjoinin.g. Those two families were prol^ably the first 
permanent ones in this town of Minisink. There were others in the limits 
of what is now Wawayanda at or about the same time. 

There were two Smith families early in the precinct of Minisink. One 



284 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of them, Benjamin, settled near the present Slate Hill village, and the 
other on the farm now owned by J. Cadigan near Johnsons, where he 
kept an inn, the place being known as Smith's Village for at least seventy- 
five years. 

Other settlers came in rapidly. William Stenard in 1749; Captain John 
Wisner from Warwick in 1776; George Kimber in 1750; Caleb Clark in 
1800; William Lane in 1760. In an assessment roll made for Goshen pre- 
cinct in 1775 Godfrey Lutes, Peter Middagh, Daniel Rosencrans, Inman 
Walling, Peter Walling, Increase Mather, John Whitaker, Jr., and Eben- 
ezer Fieers were shown to reside in this town besides the other first settlers 
mentioned. 

The census of the county in 1756 showed it tO' have a population of 
4,446 whites and 430 slaves. In 1771 there were 9,430 whites and 662 
negroes. 

The Horton family were early residents of this territory, but we have 
no positive data of their first advent. October 20, 1764, a line run to 
divide the county into two precincts was described as "beginning near the 
new dwelling house of John Manno, and thence on a course which will 
leave the house of Barnabus Horton, Jr., ten chains to the westward." 
His house we do not think was in this town. A Barnabus Horton in 1813 
lived near what is now South Centerville in Wawayanda. Gabriel Horton, 
justice of the peace, 1839-1843, lived about a mile and a half west of 
present Slate Hill in Wawayanda. William Horton in this town was a 
holder of important local offices, and his son Charles W. Horton, former 
supervisor, is now one of the leading citizens, as is also his neighbor. 
Reeves Horton. 

In 1835, ten years after the town of Calhoun (Mount Hope) had been 
set off, the remainder of the territory in old Minisink had 4,439 inhabi- 
tants, and the present limits of this town about 1,000. 

In 1850 the town of Wawayanda was taken off, and in 1853 the town 
of Greenville. In 1855, by the first census after their elimination, this 
town had a population of 1,295. 

Since then its limits have remained unchanged. In i860 its population 
was 1,266; in 1865, 1,209, ^ decrease owing to the civil war; in 1880, 
1,360, including the incorporated village of Unionville, which had 316; in 
1905, the last census taken, 1,354, including Unionville — a gain in 50 years 
of 59, which may be mainly said to be in Unionville. 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 285 

Tlie first incorporated company to do business in the town was the 
Goshen and Westtown Turnpike Company, chartered June i, 1812, con- 
sisting of Reuben Hopkins, Freegift Tuthill, Benjamin Strong, Stephen 
Jackson, James Carpenter, D. AI. Westcott, "and such other persons as 
they shall associate with them." The purpose was to build a turnpike road 
from the State line to Rutger's Kill near the mill of Jones & X'ancleft 
(at Gartlnersvillej. Thence it ran to Pellet's round hill and the Goshen 
and Minisink turnpike. 

The Middletown, Unionvillc & \\'atergap Railroad Company was incor- 
porated and completed ready for business by June 10, 1868, from Union- 
ville to Middletown. Later it was leased to the Oswego Midland Rail- 
way, and still later its 13.30 miles of track were leased by the New York, 
Susquehanna & Western Railroad Company, bv which it is now operated, 
under Erie Railroad supervision. 

MILITARY. 

There appear to have been no conflicts with the Indian owners of the 
territory of the three towns under consideration, and its white set- 
tlers, previous to the Minisink war, or as some historians call it, "The 
French and Indian War" of 1754-1758. We call it the Minisink war, be- 
cause the Minsi tribe, at the outset of the war between France and Eng- 
land, which led to the great struggle between Canada for France and the 
colonies of our country for England, got permission to take up the hatchet 
against the settlers in Pennsylvania Minisink from their (the Minsis') 
masters, the Six Nations, to avenge their wrongs in that region. The 
wrongs were alleged to be that the proprietors of Pennsylvania had 
cheated the Indian owners of the lands there, and there is now- no doubt 
that the allegation was true. There was no redress to be had for an Indian 
wrong in those years. Teedyuscung and the leaders of the Indians issued 
imperative orders that the war should be confined to Pennsylvania and 
thev were pretty generally obeyed. Occasional straggling parties of them, 
however, in small numbers, disobeyed orders in order to avenge some 
injury to some person or clan, and passed through east of Shawangunk 
Mountains on marauding expeditions. They were vagrant Indians who 
had no standing as warriors in their tribe and they perpetrated wanton 



286 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

murders without the knowledge or sanction of their leaders. Of this class 
no doubt were the ones who surprised a man named Owens at work in 
Dolsen's meadow, in what was then Dolsentown, now in Wawayanda, near 
Middletown, in 1756, and shot him. David Cooley, who is believed then 
to have had a settlement at what is now the Charles O. Carpenter farm 
near Pine Hill cemetery, about a mile south of where Dolsen was located, 
alarmed at the murder of Owens, moved his family to Goshen. The next 
spring he moved back. That summer a party of Indians, in passing by his 
place, shot a woman of his household who at the time was passing from 
the outdoor o\^en to the house. 

A company of militia had been organized in 1738 in the county called 
the "Company of the Wallakill (Willinskill)" ; but none of the 144 names 
of its members appear to belong to our territory, except it may be those 
of John Monell, Lieutenant William Borland, I'enjamin Haines, James 
Monell, Johannis Crane and James Davis. John Bayard was its captain. 

The murder of the widow Walling in 1758 was mentioned in the Phila- 
delphia Gasetie and in New York papers in that year and made a pro- 
found impression throughout the colonies. 

In the Revolutionary War, Colonel Allison's Goshen regiment contained 
some names belonging to this territory. The officers of its Wawayanda 
company were : Captain, William Blair ; lieutenants, Thomas Wisner and 
Thomas Sayre, Jr. ; ensign, Richard Johnson ; of the Drowned Lands 
company — captain, Samuel Jones ; lieutenants, Peter Gale and Jacob 
Dunning ; ensign, Samuel Webb ; of the Pochuck company — captain, 
Ebenezer Owen ; lieutenants, Increase Llolley and John Bronson ; ensign, 
David Rogers ; of Minisink company — captain, Moses Courtright ; lieuten- 
ants, John VanTile and Johannes Decker ; ensign, Ephraim Middaugh. 
The latter lived in the township of Wantage in 1764, where he was com- 
missioned as an ensign of Captain Kirkendal's company by Governor 
William Franklin. The late S. M. Stoddard of that township had and 
exhibited to the writer the last named commission. Middaugh went with 
General Hathorn to the battle of Minisink, where he was killed. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

The town of Minisink was bonded in 1869, for $75,000 to aid in extend- 
ing the New York Midland Railroad from Unionville farther south. This 



TOWN OF MINISINK. 287 

has not been paid in full yet. The sum of $3,280 was ordered to be raised 
by tax on the town of Minisink by the board of supervisors on the 22nd 
of November, 1907, to pay principal and interest on those bonds. 

The first town meeting after the town of ^linisink was organized, took 
place at the house of John Van Tuyl, April i, 1789. Its territory then 
covered the three towns, and that house supposed to be the old stone 
house now in Greenville, on the former Jonathan Van Tuyl farm, later the 
Hallock house, was a convenient place for the gathering. 

August II, 1864, the present town was bonded for $25,000 to pay 
bounties for volunteers in the Civil War. It was paid off, principal and 
interest, in eight e(|ual installments as they fell due. 

Hulet Clark bought land in .Minisink in 1828 in the present town of 
Minisink, where he died March 31, 1857. H!is son, William Harvey Clark, 
early gave evidence of the good judgment and business ability which his 
future life carried out. He married Emily Robertson of Waw-ayanda and 
they lived on the old homestead near Westtown, where he died in 1907. 
His son, Robert H. Clark, is the present supervisor of this town, resides 
on the old homestead, and is establishing a business reputation as popular 
and able as that which distinguished his father and which will make his 
name long remembered in local annals. 

In March, 1799, the Legislature of the State passed an act for the 
gradual abolition of slavery. All slaves were to become free at a certain 
age. As an instance of its w-oiking, there w^as Frank Bounty, a col- 
ored man, for whom Joseph Davis of Wawayanda had traded a pair of 
oxen when Frank was a young man. When the thiie arrived at which 
the law gave Frank his libcrt}- he was called up by Mr. Davis and 
told that he was then a free man. F>ank asked him if he could not stay 
on with him, but Mr. Davis said he could not, for the reason that people 
would then say that he was being coerced. Mr. Davis gave him some 
money and told him he must go and do for himself, and Frank told the 
WTiter that was one of the saddest days of his life. 

Mr. Davis also gave him the use of a house and lot in P.rookfield or 
Slate Flill which he might, and did, enjoy for life by paying the taxes on 
it. It was the last house on the west side of the street in the west end of 
the village at that time. There he raised a large family. 

Not all negroes were so lucky. Some of them were old and worn out 
and their masters were glad to get rid of caring for them. 



288 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

In the early history of the town in all its farming communities, the 
farmers raised sheep, and made a double use of them. The rams were 
used to churn with on the big wheel and on endless chain churning ma- 
chines then used, and the wool sheared from all the sheep was carded, 
sometimes by hand, at other times in factories, and woven or spun into 
stockings, mittens, and cloth, to furnish wearing apparel. Up to 1850, 
butter was the chief product of the dairies in the town. Then selling milk 
came into general practice, and making butter, milling flour for home use, 
and traveling on horseback went out of fashion. 

The farmers universally kept sheep, raised the wool to make the clothes 
for the members of the family, and at the same time used the large sheep 
to churn with upon a tread or sweep power. Up to 1850 butter and hogs 
were the chief products. It is less than 200 years since the first squatters 
settled in the limits of the three towns of which we write. The first cus- 
toms to pass away were their friendly associations with the few Indians 
who clung to their old hunting grounds with death-like tenacity. Then 
the hostilities engendered by the helplessness of the Indians and the con- 
sequent overbearing attitude of the settlers passed by, leaving a trail of 
traditions and savage memories. Then followed the old logging, stone 
picking, mowing, husking and quilting bees or frolics in which whiskey 
was used as a general beverage. Then came the passing of the use of 
whiskey for the universal medicine and social welcome. Next passed the 
days when women carded the wool and spun and wove it, and knit every- 
where, knit, knit, knit. Next passed the days when the young ladies* 
worked samplers, and helped in the harvest and hay fields, and grew up 
vigorous, stout and healthy. Next passed the fishing with fikes and racks 
and the hunting for wolves and foxes. Now have arrived the days when 
fish and game are about extinct. 

Now are the days when the farmers sell their milk and buy their butter ; 
when they sell little else than milk and have become a great generation of 
buyers ; when social visits are about unknown ; when the old timie good- 
natured sports and merriment are frowned upon ; when men no longer 
meet on the streets and argue politics, but bury themselves in a newspaper 
on the trains or in any resting place and read, read, read; when women 
no longer knit and spin; when the girls no longer will do outdoor work 
and dreadfully dislike to do indoor work ; when, instead of the big boys 
and girls going to school a few months in the winter season, they all 



TOWN OF MINTSINK. 289 

go away to boarding school. In noting these and other changes which 
liave taken place in the towns as the years have fled, it is noticeable that 
the people generally live better, even luxuriously, compared with former 
years, but are their public and domestic relations happier? 



290 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXI. 

TOWN OF MONROE. 

By M. N. Kane. 

THE territory comprising the present town of Monroe is part of the 
Cheesecock Patent granted by Queen Anne, March 25, 1707. 
The Cheesecock tract was surveyed by Charles CHnton, father 
(■1 George and James Clinton, and grandfather of Dewitt Clinton. His 
f'eld book, the original of which is in the possession of Hon. MacGrane 
Cox, of Southfield, N. Y. (Mr. Fred J. Knight, Civil Engmeer, of Mon- 
roe, N. Y., having a copy), contains much information and many inter- 
esting incidents of the early history of this section. 

The town was set off from the precinct of Goshen in 1764 and named 
Cheesecock. This name continued until 1801, when it was changed to 
Southfield. On April 6th, 1808, it took the present name Monroe, in 
honor of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. 

In 1863, the town (like ancient Gaul), was divided into three parts by 
the erection of the three towns of Monroe, Highland and Southfield, 
which division was the same as the present towns of Monroe, Woodbury 
and Tuxedo, except that the then town of Monroe embraced a small 
portion of the present town of Woodbury. 

In 1865 ^^^ three towais were dissolved and the whole original territory 
restored to the town of Monroe. In 1889 it again underwent the Gaelic 
operation resulting in the creation of the present towns of Monroe, 
W^oodbury and Tuxedo. Monroe contains an area of 11,500 acres, W^ood- 
bury 23,000 acres and Tuxedo 50,000 acres. 

The history of this town was written by Rev. Daniel Niles Freeland, 
who was the beloved and scholarly pastor of the Presbyterian Church 
from 1847 to 1881, and his volume of two hundred and fifty pages, en- 
titled "Chronicles of Monroe in the Olden Times," is a history of the 
town up to 1898. 

LAKES AND MOUNTAINS. 

Monroe has in recent years, because of its rugged beauties, its beau- 
tiful lakes and mountain scenery, its high altitude, pure water and health- 




M. N. Kane. 



TOWN OF MONROE. 291 

fulness, and its proximil\- to the Metropolitan district, become a favorite 
resort for the people of New York and nearby cities, and has made very 
rapid growth. It is the lake region of the county and located on the crest 
of the mountain divide, the village being the highest station except Otis- 
ville on the Erie Railroad between Jersey City ami Port Jervis. There 
are four beautiful natural lakes, located from one to three miles from 
the village, namely, Mombasha, having an area of 340 acres and an ele- 
vation of 860 feet, from which Monroe village gets it water supply ; Wal- 
ton Lake, having an area of 125 acres and an elevation of 720 feet, from 
which Chester obtains its water supply ; Round Island Lake, ninety acres 
in area and 660 feet elevation, upon the eastern hhxfi of which Mr. W. M. 
Haight's beautiful Cedar Cliff Inn is located, and Cromwell Lake with an 
area of fifty-three acres and an elevation of 740 feet. There are a num- 
ber of smaller lakes which add to the beauty of this region. Among 
them should be mentioned, the Mountain Lake recently built to the east 
of the village, witli an area of twenty acres and an elevation of 550 feet, 
and Lake Winape, a most charming mountain lake near Mombasha Lake, 
with an area of eleven acres and an elevation of 760 feet, just completed 
by Mr. George R. Conklin. The construction of other lakes is con.tem- 
plated. 

The village of Monroe is in the pass on the mountain crest, the waters 
from the northern part of the village flowing northeast into the Hudson 
near Newburgh, and from the southern part of the village flowing south- 
east through the Ramapo, which rises in Round Island Lake, into the 
Passaic River. 

Eager, in his early history of Orange County, with prophetic vision, 
saw the beauties of this section. He wrote as follows : "These are the 
Grampian hills of Orange. While this elevated range is severed by many 
deep glens and valleys, the Alpine heights hold within their rocky crests, 
ponds and lakes of pure water, which glitter like diamonds in the noon- 
tide sun. Rude and forbidding as this region of hills and rocks and 
mountain crags may at first sight appear to the eye of a superficial ob- 
server, yet, to the true lover of nature in the exhibition of her noblest 
works, and to the practical mind of the really utilitarian, for a thousand 
purposes, the whole is well arranged and unsurpassed by anything of 
the kind in the county. Here are found without stint or measure, gran- 
ite, mica or isinglass stone, and every quality of iron ore, with other 



292 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

minerals, treasures of present and future wealth to the nation. As early 
as 1778, during the war of the Revolution, the great chain passed across 
the Hudson at West Point, was made from the mineral of this region. 
In this respect as regards quality and quantity, the county of Orange 
stands unrivaled by any other in the State. 

"The time will come when these hills, mountains, deep glens and spark- 
ling lakes, shall be the descriptive themes of some native bard, who like 
Scott or Burns, caught up in spirit and wrapped in poetic fire, will har- 
moniously weave them, one and all, into the thrilling lays of the lowland 
and mountain muse. The time will come, when these elevated heights of 
dreary aspect, these hills overhung and darkened with vines and forest 
trees, and these lakes of picturesque beauty, unknown to the common mind, 
decorated with the wildest garniture of nature, and visited by the wing 
of the wild bird, shall be associated in the minds of our children's chil- 
dren with all that is pastoral, pleasing and heroic. True, Monroe cannot 
be made equal in agricultural beauty to other more charming localities, 
and wave with a golden harvest ; for though her hills and mountains may 
be denuded of their vegetable ornaments, they cannot be leveled down nor 
driven over by the ploughshare ; yet the time will come, when every nook 
and corner throughout the broad and variegated mass shall hold a free- 
man's cottage, teeming with life and highland cheer, whose tenants, hon- 
est and hardy, will sleep amidst the thunders which rock them to rest, 
and the lightnings that play around and gleam up their mountain dwell- 
ings." 

The Rev. Mr. Freeland in writing of its mountains says : "As the 
mountains were round about Jerusalem," so are the mountains round 
about Monroe. On the east are the Highlands, like the mountains of 
Moab, seen whenever its citizens look toward sunrise. Ten miles of rock 
ridges, with many a peak, defend them on that side. Only one or two 
passes give access in that direction — one over Bull Hill, the other up to 
the Stockbridge Hotel. Either of these could easily be defended against 
an enemy. On the south are Forshee Hill and the Southfield Moun- 
tains. On the west, the Bellvale Mountains and Sugar Loaf, standing like 
a sentinel, overlooking the valley below. Schunemunk guards the north- 
west. It has a bastion on the eastern corner. High Point is a weather 
signal-tower to the observing. When it wears its night-cap late in the 
morning, it indicates falling weather ; when the cap is early doffed, it 



TOWN OF MONROE. 293 

betokens a serene day. The black rocks loom up from ihc mouniain-top, 
and from their summit a wonderful scene presents iiself. Tiie eye sweeps 
the entire horizon, takint^ in the Catskills, JJutter Hill, the I'ishkill tlills, 
Bull and I'ine Hills, Mount Bashan, Sugar Loaf, Bellvale and Goose 
Pond Mountains, with lakes, farms, nnncs, mills and villages galore. The 
Devil's Racecourse lies on the northern slope of old Schunemunk, but 
the visitor needs none of his counsel or company, for he who climbs these 
steeps can find sweeter communion nearer to the heart of nature. 

"One other landmark is l>ald Hill, very dear to us because at its foot 
we first hung the crane. Here we toiled and studietl, and here the sun- 
shine lingers in our memory longest and our children fell asleep. It is the 
Acropolis of the village." 

And in writing of its valleys he says: '"Soils of great fertility were laid 
down here ; yes, brought from distant hills to furnish slope and meadow. 
Here are alluvions of great depth and good grain lands ; but the 
town is best adapted to grazing. The grasses, like those of the Blue 
Grass region of Kentucky, contain just those elements which yield fat- 
tening and milk-producing qualities. Had the mountains of Monroe been 
only a mass of rock, like some parts of Scotland, they might have been 
abandoned to the heather and become great solitary sheep-walks ; or if 
they had been only picturesque vales and quiet nooks, there would have 
been a temptation to some lord of the manor to make it his park and 
country-seat. Heaven had a better destiny in store for it, hence mingled 
rocks and soils so as to invite the plow% scooped out the water courses to 
attract the loom and forge, hid away such materials as would bring 
hither the herdman and artisan, the abhorrence of lordly pretension and 
elegant leisure. Monroe, from its very physical constitution, was pre- 
destined to be the home of honest toil and frugal industry. In the vicin- 
ity of what was to be the greatest city of the New World, and on the 
route of its best approaches from west to north, wealth and prosperity 
ought to be its sure reward, and doubtless will when the wisdom of men 
is able to master the situation." 

MONROE VILLAGE. 

But the growth and development of Monroe depends not alone upon its 
picturesque mountains, beautiful valleys and charming lakes, which at- 
tract so many city people, who are fast dotting the available lake and 



294 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

mountain sites with charming villas and country homes, beautiful inns, 
hotels and boarding houses, for the village itself is becoming one of the 
most progressive and bustling of modern towns. Its growth during the 
past five years being much more rapid than any other village of the 
county, 

Monroe village, incorporated in 1894, with a population of 781, now 
has about 1,200. The incorporation was due in a large degree to a disas- 
trous fire occurring in November, 1892, which showed the necessity of 
fire protection. 

On July 31, 1894, a vote on the question of incorporation was taken, 
resulting in favor of incorporation iii for, and 45 against. On August 
21, 1S94, an election for ofiicers was held. Henry Mapes was elected 
president ; George R. Conklin, Gilbert Carpenter and Henry Morehouse, 
trustees, and J. Lester Gregory, treasurer. On August 28th the Board 
organized as a board of water commissioners with Gilbert Carpenter, 
president. At the election held November 10, 1894, to vote for water- 
works, there were fifty-eight for and fifteen against the proposition. The 
board of water commissioners took the necessary steps to acquire water 
for the village, and the village of Monroe is largely indebted to this first 
board of water commissioners for its splendid water plant which is con- 
tributing so largely to its development. 

The village purchased from the Sterling Iron & Railway Company the 
right to raise the dam and store additional water at Mombasha Lake, 
This lake affords one of the purest and finest water supplies to be found 
in the State. About one mile of 14 inch pipe and two miles of 10 inch 
pipe bring the water to the center of the village with a head of about 
250 feet, and distribution is made with 8, 6 and 4 inch pipes. The water 
was turned on October 10, 1895. -^^ ^^^ ^^^^ since extended beyond the 
building in which it originated. The cost of the works was about $46,000, 
which is probably about two-thirds of what it would cost at present, 
owing to the increased cost of labor and material. The works are now 
not only self-sustaining but are producing a comfortable surplus, and it is 
estimated that in not many years the plant will pay for itself and will 
then produce sufficient revenue to light and keep in repair the village 
streets — a splendid example of municipal ownership of public utilities. 

The town of Monroe has no bonded indebtedness and the village none 
other than its water bonds, except that Union Free School District No. 



TOWN OF MONROE. 295 

I, which inchulos the village, has issued $4,375, on account of the pur- 
chase of a seven acre school site on a commanding height overlooking 
the village. 

The Warwick, Monroe and Chester Building and Loan Association 
has been a potent factor in Monroe's development. It was organized in 
April, 1890. 

Standard Lodge No. 711 F. & A. M., instituted at Chester, N. Y., June 
30, 1S71, was. with consent of the Grand Lodge, moved to' Monroe in 
1884, and has a membership of 180. 

The Monroe National Bank, U. S. No. 7,563, although in its infancy, is 
a tiourishing institution. It was chartered by the Treasury Department 
January i8th, 1905 and it was opened for business, March ist, 1905. 

Monroe has a very excellent fire department. The Mombasha Hose 
Company was organized July 24th, 1895, and the Mombasha Fire Com- 
pany, April 5th, 1898. 

The Orange and Rockland Electric Light and Power Company, which 
furnishes light and power to the villages and communities in the eastern 
end of the county, is located at Monroe and is now erecting a very large 
plant. The Newbury Foundry Company is also located here. 

Monroe has a fine telephone system, an athletic association, and is now 
putting dow^n cement walks in the village, and it is confidently predicted 
that it will be the leading center of the eastern end of the county 
within a short period. 

A Methodist society existed in the neighborhood of Monroe prior 
to 1839, the M. E. Church at Oxford (near Quaker Hill) having been 
built some time before, but in the year above mentioned Matthew B. 
Sweezy deeded to the Trustees of the recently organized M. E. Church 
of Monroe the land upon w^hich the church now stands. Tn the follow- 
ing year. 1840, the church was built. The first board of trustees was 
the following: Stephen Post, Isaac Compton, Jeremiah Kniglit, Thomas 
D. Tannery. John King, Samuel Smith and Peter Ball. Others who 
served the church in its early history as trustees were Jonathan Mapes, 
John S. Grcgor)', Matthew B. Sweezy, Solomon W. Esray, Townsend 
Mapes. Job Mapes. William Hudson, George K. Smith, William John- 
ston, Martin Konnight, Daniel Secord, Nathan Strong and Walter 
Roberts. John S. Gregory was elected trustee in 1843 ^^^ served in this 
capacity until his death in IQ05. a period of sixty-two years. 



296 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The Rev. Mr. Bancroft is said to have been the first minister. Others 
who followed him were the Rev. William Van Duzen, Rev. A. C. Fields, 
Rev. Mr. Newmans, Rev. J. H. Hawkshurst, Rev. Mr. Blake, Rev. Mr. 
Croft, Rev. N. Messiter, Rev. D. D. Gillespie. 

Matthew B. Sweezy was chorister for a time. There was no organ 
in the early days of the church, but the congregation was frequently led 
in singing by the violin and the violincello, though there were some who 
objected to the use of so ungodly a thing as the "fiddle." 

At first the Monroe church was a part of the circuit under the charge 
of a pastor and his assistants. This circuit in the early days comprised, 
besides Monroe, the churches at Highland Mills, Washingtonville, Craig- 
ville and Turner. Finally, Monroe and Turner comprised the charge, and 
this relationship was dissolved in 1895. 

In 1875 it was voted to enlarge and repair the church, and the pastor, 
Rev. David McCartney, and Mr. H. H. Lawrence, were appointed a com- 
mittee to solicit subscriptions for this purpose. Their efforts were suc- 
cessful and the church was remodeled, and stands to-day practically the 
same as they left it. 

The church has reason to hold the memory of Mr. James Smith, Mrs. 
James Smith and Sara Smith, their daughter, in lasting remembrance, 
as thev respectively left substantial legacies to the trustees of the church, 
to the Ladies' Aid Society, and to the Sunday school, said legacies to 
be held in trust for their use. 

The church has a Sunday school and Epworth league. The super- 
intendents of the Sunday school during the last twenty-five years or 
more have been Franklin Bull and Orville Eichenberg, the latter having 
held the position for the last nineteen years. 

The first available records of the schools of the town of Monroe are 
dated January 7, 1819. These are receipts given by the trustees of 
several of the school districts for State moneys received from the com- 
missioners of common schools. These moneys were for the benefit of 
their respective districts and were in all cases small, the apportionments 
ranging from eight to twenty-five dollars. At this time the town's edu- 
cational interests were in the hands of three commissioners of common 
schools. The incumbents of these offices in the town of Monroe in 1819 
were Israel Green, Lewis H. Roe and George Wilks. 
i In 1843 the office of town superintendent was instituted, thus doing 



TOWN OF MONROE. 297 

a\\a\- wiili tlic board of three commissioners of common schools. The 
duties of this officer were probably the same as those exercised by the 
board which he had taken the place of. The first person to hold this 
new town office was Joseph R. Andrews, who had been a member of the 
last board of commissioners of common schools. The office of town 
superintendent ceased to exist in 1857. when the office of school com- 
missioner was created. The new official assumed the powers of hcensing 
teachers, altering school district boundaries, etc., while the care of the 
school moneys from the State was given to the supervisor of the town. 
The office of town superintendent was held for a short time by 
Morgan Shuit, and afterward for a period of about ten years by Archi- 
bald Campbell, whose term was concluded in 1857, when the office was 
abolished. 

In 1819, as the}' did in subsequent years, the commissioners reported 
the text-books in use. This list varied little for many years and was 
given in the following order : Webster's Spelling Book, Murray's Gram- 
mar, Johnson's Dictionary, Scott's Lessons, English Reader, American 
Selections. American Reader, Columbian Orator, Daball's and Dilworth's 
Arithmetic. Later on a new and inexperienced board of conuuis- 
sioners enumerates the above list with one exception, and concludes with 
the information, "all of which are American selections." 

The commissioners of common schools in 1819 rearranged the boun- 
daries of the school districts of the town, and recorded these boundaries 
somewhat definitely. The number at that time was thirteen, but since 
that date the number has been changed many times and their boundaries 
have frequently been altered. 

Of the schools of the former town of Monroe four have become 
union schools, having high school departments, viz : Central Valley, in 
February, 1895; Monroe, in December, 1896; Turner, in May, 1902, and 
Tuxedo, in December, 1902. 

District Xo. i is the district that includes the village of Monroe. 
Though it contains practically the territory of District No. i, as re- 
corded in 1819, its boundaries have been materially changed. The Rev. 
D. X. Freeland says, in his history of the town of Monroe, that the 
first mention of a school in this neighborhood is of one held in the 
Presbyterian church building at Seamanville. After that a log school- 
house was built I'ust west of the church. The old stone school-house on 



298 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the road to Mombasha followed, and this in turn gave way to another 
built a few rods further south. In 1857 a two-story building near the 
Presbyterian church was constructed and this was made to answer the 
purpose until 1884, when the building now in use (1907) was erected 
at a cost of $10,000. This building has now become too small and the 
people of the district have purchased, during the past year, a new site 
just north of the Episcopal chapel, containing nearly seven acres, at a 
cost of $5,000. They have also appropriated the sum of $40,000 for 
the erection of a suitable building, the foundations of which are at this 
time completed. 

Of the persons serving the district in an official relation the following 
have rendered the longest continuous service ; Henry Mapes, as clerk, 
thirty- four years ; George R. Conklin, trustee, twenty years ; A. B. Hulse, 
trustee, fifteen years. 

The school of District No. i was admitted as a member of the Uni- 
versity of the State of New York December 17, 1896, having been 
created a union school the preceding year. The following are the names 
of the trustees appearing upon the certificate of admission as petitioners : 
Eugene McGarrah, George R. Conklin, L. H. Marvin, Solomon Fair- 
child. 

Tbe present board of education is : Fletcher B. Brooks, Solomon 
Fairchild, Millard Mapes, Frank F. Grififin, and Clarence S. Knight. In 
addition to the usual work of a board of education, this board has the 
additional responsibility of building a modern school-house. 

TURNER VILLAGE. 

Many changes have to be recorded in the thriving village of Turner, 
in the eastern part of the town of Monroe. By common consent the 
name has been changed from "Turners" to "Turner," and this seems to 
be a most reasonable change. 

No longer do the trains of the Erie Railroad Company sweep majesti- 
cally into the depot, there to stand impatiently while its hungry pas- 
sengers regale themselves in that famous restaurant founded by Peter 
Turner. The now common, every-day dining-car attached to nearly 
every train, has crowded out that famous business. The large brick 
building was destroyed by fire and the restaurant moved to the wooden 



^ 







TOWN OF MONROE. 299 

building on tlic opposite side of the track. This property is now owned 
by the Ramapo Mountain Realty Company, but is fast falling into decay. 
One end alone is used as a depot. Below the hill stands the famous grist 
mill which receives its power from the village pond near by. Across the 
street from the mill stands the old hotel of stage coach days, now reno- 
vated into a modern hotel, known as "Silver Fox Inn." This property 
and the farm connected therewith are owned by the Ramnpo Mountain 
Realty Company. 

The old smithy, where Cortland Rumsey's hammer caused the anvil 
to ring, has long since become a business house. The village blacksmith, 
J. B. Hallock, has built a modern shop near by and causes the same old 
anvils to ring as hearty and strong as ever. 

The little old stone school-house where our fathers learned their 
"three R's," is now a dwelling and a magnificent school-house stands on 
a hill overlooking the entire vdlage. There, four learned instructors 
hold forth, where a few short years ago one was sufficient. 

The few rambling houses that constituted the little village of a few 
years ago have given way to modern dwellings and business places, con- 
stituting a thriving village of some eight hundred people, all busy and 
prosperous. 

Surrounding the village on every hillside stand the beautiful summer 
homes of some wealthy New Yorkers. Among these are the homes of 
W. R. Barr, "Stony Wolde"; Mrs. John Brower, "Blythlea"; and the 
homes of E. H. Harriman, Ward Brower, Farrand Brower, Max Jager- 
huber, Orrin S. Wood and William L. Strout. Where once our farmers 
tilled the soil beautiful lawns appear. To the east, where once hunters 
and trappers alone journeyed, on the highest peak of the Ramapo Moun- 
tains, rises the n]ansion of E. H. Harriman. Inch by inch and foot by 
foot this great stone structure rises into view above the trees that sur- 
round it. A railway has been hewn out of the side of the mountain and 
a cable railroad operates cars that hoist workmen and materials to the 
summit. 

The village maintains two churches — a Methodist Episcopal and a 
Catholic. Both have excellent sanctuaries and congregations of earnest, 
sincere, right-living people. They have done yeoman work in their terri- 
tory and their influence has been widespread. Connected with the Meth- 
odist Church is a Sunday school and Epworth league. 



300 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The famous old store of Thomas Earl has been torn down and the 
village now has five stores. The old "Bombeetel" house still stands at 
the cross-roads in the center of the village and now contams the village 
market run by J. R. Brooks. 

Time has indeed dealt kindly with Turner. The latest item to be 
accredited her is electricity. Nightly the village streets are brilliantly 
lighted and business goes on as busily as by daylight. The magic current 
is introduced to the houses and brings light and cheerfulness to the 
homes. 

The old village of Centerville would scarcely recognize the village of 
Turner, which is but the village of Centerville under a new name. 




David A. Morrison. 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 301 

CHAi'TER XXli. 

TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 

Bv David A. Morrison. 

THIS inii»(>rlain town is in the norlhcrn part of Orange County, bor- 
dering- upon Ulster. It lies between the towns of Newburgh on 
the east, and Crawford on the west. Each of these towns has 
a large tongue of land that extends much further toward the north than 
the territory of Montgomery, the northern bounds of wdiich form nearly 
a straight line. On the south are the towns of New Windsor, Hampton- 
burgh and Wallkill, from wdiich it is separated by rather irregular rectan- 
gular lines. The area of the town as shown by the last Supervisors' 
report, is 30,578 acres. The assessed valuation of property taxable in 
the town and found by the Assessors in 1906 aggregated $2,094,640. The 
total taxes for that year amounted to $23,953.01. 



TITLES. 

The territory of Montgomery is a part of the original John Evans 
Patent, which seems to have been set aside subsequently for various 
reasons. In 1714 it was in the precinct of Shawangunk. in Ulster County, 
where it remained until 1743. when it became part of the Wallkill pre- 
cinct. At that time it embraced the following patents: 

Cadwallader Golden, April 9, 17 19 2.000 acres 

John Johnson, Jr.. February 3. 1720 i.ooo " 

Thomas Rrazier, March 17. 1720 2,000 " 

Henry Wileman, June 30. 1712 3,000 " 

David Gallatian, June 4, 17 19 1,000 " 

Edward Gatehouse, January, 1719 i.ooo " 

James Alexander, April 9, 1719 2,000 " 

Archil)ald Kennedy. April 9, 1719 2,000 " 

James Smith. December 15, 1722 2,000 " 

Patrick McKnight, April 9, 1719 2,000 " 



302 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Thomas Noxon, May 28, 1720 2,000 acres 

Francis Harrison & Co., July 7, 1720 5,00O " 

Jeremiah Schuyler & Co., January 22, 1719 10,000 " 

Phillip Schuyler and others, July 20, 1720 8,000 " 

Jacobus Bruyn and Henry Wileman, April 25, 1722. . . 2,500 " 
Frederick Morris and Samuel Heath, January 24, 1736. 
Thomas Ellison and Lawrence Roome, Nov. 12, 1750 
Cadwallader Colden, Jr. and David Colden, June 20, 1761 — 720 A. 

In 1772 Wallkill Precinct was divided and the eastern part named the 
precinct of Hanover. In 1782 this name was changed to the precinct 
of Montgomery, which was erected as the town of Montgomery in 
1788. Ten years afterwards it Wias, with other towns, taken from 
Ulster County and annexed to Orange County. In 1823 the town of 
Montgomery was divided and the western part containing about 25,000 
acres constituted and named the town of Crawford. In 1830 the 
southern part of Montgomery was detached to form (in part) the 
town of Hamptonburgh. The last alteration in its boundaries was made 
in 1842, when four farms containing nearly 600 acres were taken from 
the town of New Windsor and annexed to Montgomery. 

NATURAL FEATURES. 

The fertile valley of the Wallkill, which extends through the town 
on a northeasterly course, dividing it nearly into equal parts, is a dis- 
tinguishing characteristic. For nearly a third of the way, where the 
stream enters Ulster County, it flows very nearly north in a straight 
line. Then it deflects toward the southwest to the village of Mont- 
gomery, when there is a sharp bend, which afterward turns nearly at 
right angles toward the east and finally leaves the town in nearly a 
straight course again, forming a part of the eastern boundary of the 
town and dividing it from Hamptonburgh. The most important tribu-. 
tary of the Wallkill is the Tinn Brook, which begins in the town of 
New Windsor, pursues a sinuous career, and finally tumbles into the 
Wallkill near the village of Walden. The Beaver Dam stream rises in 
the southeastern part of the town and flows nearly south into the Otter- 
kill, in the town of Hamptonburgh. The source of this stream is a large 



TOWN OF MOXTGOM F,RV. 303 

spring of great depth. McKnight's Kill also rises in the southeasterly 
part of the town, and flows southerly into the Otterkill near Burnside. 
The Muddy Kill rises in the western part of the town, drains that section 
ii: a sluggish way. and ends near the village of Montgomeiy. The 
surface of the town is diversified with hills, rolling and meadow 
land. Comfort's Hills on the west rise from 6cx) to 800 feet above tide and 
are much the highest elevation. For adaptation to varied agriculture 
the town is not excelled by any other town in the county. The uplands 
arc warm, fertile, and comparatively easy to cultivate. The meadows 
generally produce large crops of grass, and afford excellent pasturage. 
Numerous springs and small streams furnish an abundant supply of 
pure water. Dairying is the predominant agricultural industry. 

EARLY SETTLKMEXTS. 

On the east bank of the Wallkill, on the old Rogers farm, there was 
?n old Indian settlement. The red men had made a goodly clearing in 
the forest here and, tradition says, had planted fruit trees, and when 
the white man first set foot in this region he found full-grown bearing 
apple trees on this ancient clearing. An Indian settlement was found 
on the flat above the bridge over the Wallkill, near the old Miller stone 
house. Another had its wigwams on the old Christoffel (or Stuffeli^ 
Moul (Mould) farm about two miles north of Montgomery on the 
main highway afterwards known as the stage road from Cioshen to 
Albany. These left for more remote regions in 1775. 

Xear the present village of Walden the settlement of Henr\' Wile- 
man was made. His patent contained 3.000 acres, and he settled upon it 
\ery soon after its purchase in 1712. What was known as the Harrison 
Patent was granted May 25. 1721. This was given to the following 
persons : Francis Harrison, Allan Jarrat, Adolphus Phillips, George 
Clarke, Johanes Lansing, Henry Wileman, Jacobus Bruyn and William 
Sharpas. This entire tract was surveyed and a large village laid out. 
and deeds were given to all actual settlers. Among these the following 
were named : Hans Newkirk, Hendrick Newkirk, Matthias Slimmer, 

Peter Kvsler, Kraus, Brandos. These ancient .settlers 

upon this land were Palatines, and after a few years they erected a small 
log church within the village, the .site of which is still fairly indicated by 



304 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the old graveyard on the east side of the Goshen road, a short distance 
south of Montgomery, This old village was known as Germantown. 

About a mile farther south on this patent Johannes Miller, a German, 
made a settlement in 1727. The next year he built a stone house where 
Mr. Elmer Miller afterwards lived. His grandson, Johannes Miller, 
was a leading citizen of the town in later years — a progressive man, 
prominent in promoting several important public enterprises, and espe- 
cially active in the construction of the Newburgh and Cochecton Turn- 
pike Road. His services towards establishing and maintaining the Mont- 
gomery Academy have always been held in grateful remembrance. 

The 5,000-acre tract granted to Schuyler & Co., was first settled by 
Jeronimous Weller & Co., in 1721. Another grant of 10,000 acres was 
settled by a company consisting of Johannes Mingus, his son Jeronimous, 
Mattias Miltzbagh, and others whose names are not definitely known. 
It was agreed by this company that a tract of 100 acres would be granted 
to each family that would locate permanently upon it. Mingus built a 
mill, around which the old village of Ward's Bridge soon clustered. But 
Mingus lost his life in this mill by accident soon afterward, which resulted 
in considerable dispute over the property. 

The Wallkill or Goodwill settlement is supposed to date from 1724-25. 
John Mackneel and Adam Graham were among the first settlers. When 
they came into the Precinct is not definitely known. The former owned a 
part of what is now known as the Dowms farm; the latter settled on 
what is now the Parsonage farm. In 1727 Archibald, James and Robert 
Huntier purchased 200 acres of land, on which a house had then been 
built, from James Alexander, the patentee ; this purchase included the 
Henry Suydam farm. In 173 1 James Munnel settled on, or near, the 
Charles Miller farm, now owned by Mr. William Y. Dennison. Alex- 
ander Kidd settled on what is still known as the Kidd Homestead, about 
2^ miles north of the Church in 1736. Benjamin Haines came into the 
neighborhood in 1739, and the Rev. Joseph Houston was installed 
pastor of the Goodwill Church in 1740. Other early settlers were James 
Barkley, on the James W. Bowne farm; the Rev. Joseph Mofifat. 1758; 
John Blake who bought 475 acres of land in 1761, part of which is 
owned and occupied by his great grandson, Mr. John P. M. Blake, and 
whose son, John Blake, Jr., was in after years, a prominent man. being 
supervisor sixteen years, and a member of assembly several terms, sheriff 




Robert Young. 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 305 

and congressman ; Samuel Miller, who came from Canada pi-cvious to 
1764; Peter Hill in 1767; Captain Hendricns Van Keuren in 1768; Colonel 
John Nicholson; John Morrison; Gideon Pelton, and Tunis Van Arsdale, 
whose blacksmith shop is mentioned in the early records of the town. 

Adjoining the Goodwill settlement on the east, Cadwallader Colden 
had been granted a patent for 2,000 acres and was settled in 1728 where 
Mr. George W. Pimm now resides. The locality was named Coldenliam 
in his honor. He was one of the most prominent of the early settlers, 
being surveyor-general of the Province, lieutenant-governor and sev- 
eral limes acting governor. As a man he was esteemed for his great 
learning, benevolence and strict honesty. As a public officer he was 
distinguished for his unblemished integrity. Several buildings were 
erecteti in that vicinity by members of the Colden family, some of which 
are still standing. 

The Neelytown section adjoins the Goodwill neighborhood on the 
south, and was so called from a large and influential family which appears 
to have been active in bringing in the early settlers, but whose name has 
entirely disappeared from the community, ft was settled before 1726. 
In that year the names of John Neely and Thomas Neely appear as actual 
settlers. At that time Charles Booth who purchased 1,000 acres of land 
had built his first house near where Mr. William Conning lived in later 
years — his two sons, Charles and George Booth, were w-ith him. A de- 
fective list of freeholders made in 1728 contains the name of Alexander 
Neely. William and Robert Neely were witnesses to a will in 1731, ami 
the name of John Neely, Jr.. is seen in an old record. William Eager 
with his sons, William and Thomas, came to Neelytown m 1741. He 
built a log house where the residence of Mr. Samuel W. Eager now 
stands. His second house w^as of stone and was situated a short distance 
south of the first and built before the Revolution. His descendants are 
very numerous and are widely scattered. Samuel W. Eager, Orange 
County's first historian, was one of them. Other early settlers in this 
section were James McCobb, who located at a very early date on the 
Sherwood farm, now "Nestledown"; William Jackson. James Jackson, 
James Houston. William Young. Captain Alexander Trimble, 1764; Pat- 
rick Barber, 1764; Captain James McBride and Rev. Robert Annan, 1765. 

A settlement across the Wallkill opposite the present village of Mont- 
gomery, was made by Henry Crist, Stevanus Crist. Mnltliia<; Millspaugh 



3o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and others. This land was then considered the best in the town. These 
Germans were a vigorous and hearty people, and they went to work 
boldly to cultivate the land and establish comfortable homes, with a de- 
termination to succeed. They soon began to extend their farms to the 
Comfort Hills slopes, and into the section now embraced in the town of 
Crawford. Their success attracted many representatives of the sturdy 
Scotch-Irish race, who joined them soon afterward. Among the more 
progressive pioneer settlers was Henry Crist, from whom descended many 
active men and women who became leading and influential citizens of the 
town. Jacob Crist is said to have been drowned in the Hudson River .on 
his return from New Amsterdam with his wedding outfit. Henry Crist, 
the early immigrant, built near the foot of the hill east of the old Dutch 
church. His son, Jacob, planted his home on the hill opposite Montgom- 
ery village near the mill. 

Among other early settlers were David Bookstaver, Jacob Bookstaver, 
Frederick Sinsabaugh, and Johannes Young-blood who bought an 800 acre 
tract. It is recorded of these pioneer German settlers that they were even 
unable to build so much as a log cabin at first, and were obliged to make 
excavations in the hillside in which to pass the winter. This they did in 
the gravelly hill east of the old Brick church. In these primitive dugouts 
they waited patiently for the snowdrifts to melt away in the springtime, 
when they might renew their labors and provide more comfortable shelter 
for their families. 

Johannes Miller came to America in 1700, lived in Ulster County for a 
time, and about 1727 settled upon a portion of the Harrison patent. 
Frederick Shafer, a tanner by trade, was also among these old settlers, 
and soon established a tannery, which was afterward improved by his 
son Daniel. 

Charles Booth purchased 1,000 acres of land in Neelytown, and this 
tract remained in the Booth family for a long series of years afterward. 
This family came into the town from Long Island, and George Booth 
became a leading citizen and was so regarded all through his life. 

MILITARY NOTES. 

In 1738 a company of militia of the Wallkill was organized under 
Captain John Byard, and formed part of a regiment of which A. Gaas- 
beck Chambers was Colonel and Wessel Ten Broeck Lieutenant-Colonel, 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 307 

to protect the early settlers against the incursions of the Indians. Among 
those whose names were enrolled in this company the following are 
known to have been residents of what is now the town of Montgomery : 
John Ncwkirk, sergeant; James Gillespie, Thomas Gillespie, Alexander 
Milligan, Alexander Kidd, Archibald Hunter, James Hunter, John Min- 
gus, Stephanus Crist, James Munell, John Alunell, George Munell, John 
McNeill, John ^McNeill, Jr., Robert Hunter, Richard Gatehouse, Joseph 
Sutter, Philip Milsbaugh, Cronimus Mingus, Stoffel Moul, Johannes 
Crans, Matthias Meltzbagh, Hendrix Ncwkirk, Hcndrick Crist, Benjamin 
Hains, John Neely, Jr., Frederick Sanzabah. 

In 1755 the regiment was divided into two regiments. The first em- 
braced Kingston and the northern part of the county ; the second em- 
braced the Precincts of Highlands, Wallkill and Shawangunk, and in this 
form took part in the French and Indian War. The roster of officers 
in the second regiment included the names of the following persons who 
then resided in what is now the town of ^Montgomery. Jacob Newkirk, 
Captain ; Cadwallader C. Colden. Captain ; David Gallatin, Captain ; Mat- 
thew Rea, Lieutenant. 

The militia of the Revolution was organizetl by an act of the Provincial 
Convention passed August 22, 1775. Lister County was divided into 
four regimental districts. The second district comprised the precincts 
of New Windsor, Hanover and Wallkill. At first there were twelve 
companies in the regiment, of which Hanover furnished five, commanded 
by Captain Matthew Felter, William Jackson, James Milliken, John J. 
Graham and John Gillespie. In 1777 the number of companies was re- 
duced to nine, four of which were in Hanover, under Captains Felter, 
Milliken, Hendrik \'an Keuren and James McBride. 

An eminent historian said of the second regimen I of Ulster County 
militia that "it gave, perhaps, more fighting men than were drawn from 
other similar organizations," and that "no other regiment of militia was 
more active from the beginning until the end of the war." There was 
fight in it from start to finish. "As a rule circumstances would not admit 
of the calling out of an entire company from its beat at one time ; some 
must remain at home ; but portions of this regiment were in almost con- 
stant motion, some going, others returning." From Decemlx-r. 1876. to 
April 12. T778, less than 16 months, the militia of Hanover and adjoining 
precincts were called out twelve times and spent 202 days in the field. 



3o8 THE COUNTY OP ORANGE. 

Although the records of churches and traditions give gUmpses of con- 
troversies, the inhabitants of Hanover precinct acted with great unanim- 
ity and showed an intense patriotic spirit during the War for Independ- 
ence. The pledge of association, dated May 8, 1775, in v/hich they 
pledged their "support to the Continental Congress in resisting the op- 
pressive acts of the British Parliament," and in the most solemn manner 
resolved "never to become slaves," was signed first by Dr. Charles Clinton 
and received 342 signatures. 

The history of the men of Montgomery in the Revolution, who they 
were, and what they did, if it could be written, would be a story of toils, 
privation and exposure of great interest to the present generation. In 
few sections of the State did the burden of the war bear more heavily 
than in the valleys of the Wallkill and the Hudson, and in no portion was 
it borne with more unflinching determination. But this history cannot be 
written. The names of many of these men and their deeds have sunk 
into oblivion. A few of those preserved by history and tradition, to- 
gether with the places where they lived, are mentioned. To locate the 
places definitely the names of the owners at the present (1908), are given. 

Arthur Parks lived at Ward's Bridge (now Montgomery), on what 
was afterwards known as the L'Hommedieu farm, now occupied by Mr. 
H. H. Hallett. He was a member of the Committee of Safety in 1775 
and 1776, first Lieutenant in Captain William Jackson's company of 
militia. Major of a battalion of minute men in 1776, member of the 
first Provincial Convention, member of the convention that framed our 
first State Constitution and of the convention that amended it, and State 
Senator for eleven years. 

Jacob Newkirk was captain under Colonel Thomas Ellison in the 
French and Indian War, member of the Committee of Safety, Major, 
and afterwards Lieutenant-Colonel of the second regiment Ulster County 
militia, and commanded the regiment during the years that Colonel James 
McClaughry was a prisoner and was recovering from his wounds re- 
ceived at the capture of Fort Montgomery. 

Henry Smith was also a member of the Committee of Safety for the 
precinct and was first Lieutenant in Captain Matthew Felter's company; 
he lived nearly two miles north of Montgomery on the farm now owned 
and occupied by his descendant, Mr. James Smith. 

Hugh Lindsay was a private in Colonel John Lamb's Artillery, and was 




W. r. Lodge. 



TOWN or- MONTGOMERY. 309 

taken prisoner at the capture of l-'ort Montgomery; he lived at Ward's 
Bridge and afterwards built and lived in the house on Bridge street now 
owned by the estate of the late Jonathan M. Morrison. 

Alexander Trimble was quarter-master of the Second Ulster Regiment 
in the War of the Revolution, and also a member of the Committee of 
Safety; he lived about two miles south of Goodwill Church on the farm 
now owned and occupied by Mr. George V'anAlst. 

^z'' Johannes Moul (Mould), who lived about two miles north of Mont- 
gomery, where his great-great-grandson, Mr. John D. Mould, now lives, 
was a sergeant in the French and Intlian War, and with his son, Johannes 
Moul, Jr., and his brother, Christopher Moul. were privates in Colonel 
McClaughry's Regiment in the Revolution. These three patriots also 
evinced their patriotism by loaning money to the Government when it 
was urgently needed to equip the army for the caj^ture of Cornwallis. 

James Milliken. a member of the Committee of Safety, lived on the 
east side of the Wallkill. where Mr. Harvey N. Smith now resides, was 
captain of one of the Hanover companies, and was killed at Fori Mont- 
gomery. 

Hendricus \'an Keuren was a veteran of the French and Indian War, 
who served throughout the Revolution as Captain, and according to family 
tradition, gratuitously lived on what is known as the Downs farm, l)e- 
twccn Montgomcr\' and Goodwill church. 

John Nicholson was Colonel of the Third N. Y. Regiment of the Conti- 
nental Line, which was brigaded under General Richard Montgomery, and 
took part in the assault on Quebec when the brave Montgomery was 
killed. The privations and exposures of that canii)aign were so great that 
wnth impaired health he returned to his farm, near Maybrook. which is 
now divided, and owned by Mr. John Wiley and Mr. William H. Jewell. 

Hamilton Morrison enlisted as soon as he was old enough, and served 
first as a private and then as a sergeant in Captain James ^fcBride's com- 
pany. Second Ulster County Militia. He lived about a mile south of 
Goodwill Church on what is known as the Morrison Homestead, now 
owned and occupied by his grandsons. Mr. George H. Morrison and 
Mr. John G. Morrison. 

Tunis \'an Arsdale liverl on the adjoining farm ( iiow a part of the 
homestead), and was a blacksmith. His shop was the ren<Iezvous of the 
patriots in that vicinity. He was also a private in Captain Van Keuren's 



3IO THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

company and saved his life at Fort Montgomery by slipping between 
the legs of a British soldier who was holding an American bayoneted 
against the wall of the fort, and escaped in the darkness. 

John Van Arsdale, who lived with his elder brother, Tunis, enlisted in 
the Continental Army at the beginning of the war, and served faithfully 
until its close. He suffered intensely from cold and hardship in the Can- 
ada expedition, was severely wounded and taken prisoner at Fort Mont- 
gomery, languished many weary months in the "old sugar house'' and 
in the foul hold of the "Jersey prison ship," was finally exchanged, and 
then braved the perils of Indian warfare in several campaigns. On No- 
vember 25, 1783, he witnessed the evacuation of New York City by the 
British, which was the final triumph of the cause for which he and others 
had fought and sufifered seven long years, and was present when the ad- 
vancing Americans, following closely upon the retiring British, reached 
the Battery to perform the last formality in re-possessing the city, which 
was to unfurl the American flag over Fort George, but found the royal 
ensign still floating as usual over the Fort. The British had nailed their 
colors to the staff and taken away the halyards. In this dilemma John 
Van Arsdale ascended the flag-stafT, partly by ladder, but mainly by shin- 
ning, tore down the British flag and rove the new halyards by which the 
Star Spangled Banner was quickly run up while the assembled thousands 
cheered, and the artiller}^ boomed forth a national salute. While other 
localities may boast of those who struck the first blow for American free- 
dom, Montgomery may justly claim for one of her sons the glory of re- 
moving the last vestige of British authority from this country. 

ORGANIZATION OF THE TOWN. 

The town was originally organized under the name of Hanover Pre- 
cinct in 1772. The present territory of Crawford was then included, the 
whole having been taken from the old Wallkill Precinct. In 1782 the 
name was changed to Montgomery Precinct, and seven years later it was 
finally changed to the town of Montgomery. This title was bestowed in 
honor of General Montgomery, who was killed in the assault upon Que- 
bec in 1775. Major Colden was the supervisor of the old Wallkill pre- 
cinct in 1768-69. 

The record of the first town meeting, now on file in the town clerk's 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. ,^\i 

office, is of April 5, 1803. Jvculx-n Ncely was llicn clmsc-n supervisor, and 
Arthur Parks, town clerk. There were fifty-five overseers of highways in 
the town that year. But the kiborers were few, the system of road-work- 
ing was sadly defective, as in fact it remained for nearly a hundred years 
afterwards, and the results were primitive and unsatisfactory, although, 
of course, far less was required of a public road in thnse days than is now 
demanded, and the people accepted the situation without complaint, so 
far as the record shows. 

The following is a list of supervisors of the town to 1908: David 
Galatian, 1798; John IMake, 1799; Reuben Neely, 1800 to 1810; John 
Blake, Jr., to 1826; Samuel W. Eager, to 1833; Nathaniel P. Hill, 1834; 
Edward Filake, to 1839; James Galatian, to 1841 ; William Blake, to 1844; 
William Graham, to 1846; Stephen Rapalje, 1847; Joshua G. Haliock, to 
1849; Lindley M. Ferris, 1850; Johannes M. Hunter, to 1852; Stephen 
Rapalje, to 1863; Marcus K. Hill, 1864; Stephen Rapalje, to 1873; 
Daniel M. Wade, to 1875 ; Marcus K. Hill, to 1877 ; Charles J. Van Alst, 
to 1879; Robert Young, to 1886; Andrew K. Wade, to 1889; Robert 
Young, 1890; Irving H. Loughran, to 1900; William H. Didsburg, to 
1905; Hector W. Millspaugh, to 1907; William G. Decker, 1908. 

VILLAGES. 

The old village of Montgomery is on the bank of the Wallkill in the 
southern part of the town. It was here that Henry Crist, Stephen Crist 
and Matthias Millspaugh settled at an early date, on the west bank of the 
river. Johannes Mingus built a grist-mill there, which was afterwards 
sold to James Ward with 200 acres of land, upon which the village was 
built. Mr. Ward built a rude bridge across the Wallkill in order that his 
customers might reach his mill. This was really the first road bridge of 
any kind known in that vicinity for years afterward. In fact, the place 
took its name from this important structure, as well as the post-oftice itself, 
it being known as Ward's Bridge for many years. 

James Clinton and William Crist, having obtained an interest in the 
Kennedy patent, upon which the village stands, laid out "a small town 
called Montgomery town," which gave the village that name. Among 
other early settlers there were John McFaugh. David Crist. John McKins- 
try, Matthew Hunter, Samuel Smith, Arthur Parks and Oolis Shulp. 
James Ward,* the pioneer, lived in a log cabiiL 



312 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The village was incorporated by a special act dated February 17, 1810. 
Hugh Lindsey was the first president. The first village tax aggregated 
$60. Two years later $100 was raised to build a market house, and in 
1814, $200 was appropriated for a fire engine. But it was not until seven 
years later that four professional firemen were appointed. In 1880 this 
village tax had increased to over $1,200. 

The location of Montgomery. on a placid stretch of the Wallkill, with its 
slightly elevated banks, afifording a fine natural drainage, is peculiarly 
healthful, and there are many attractive and commodious private resi- 
dences. Among the leading manufacturing industries is the worsted mills 
of William Crabtree & Sons. The people of Montgomery are noted for 
their hospitality and public spirit. The place is surrounded by fine State 
roads, and ranks as one of the important historic villages of Orange 
County. 

Walden is the most thriving and important village. It is on 
the Wallkill River at the high falls, by which indefiuite name it was 
known for years. The settlement began many years before the Revolution. 
Of course, the first structure was the inevitable grist-mill, as in nearly 
every instance in this region. James Kidd built a mill at the foot of the 
falls on the east side of the stream, though the precise date is not definitely 
known. In any event, the records show that in 1768 this old mill had al- 
ready fallen into the possession of Johannes Decker. In 1789 it belonged 
to Cadwallader Colden, Jr. The plant was afterward converted into a 
cotton factory. 

Mr. Walden, the founder of this village, is said to have struggled man- 
fully under adverse influences and suiTered defeat at the end in his old 
age, causing him to retire ultimately from the scene of his labors. Leaving 
the refinements of city life to establish manufacturing interests in this 
sparsely settled region, and without adequate protection, he spent his for- 
tune and his active energies here practically without reward. There being 
no railways, raw material had to be drawn in sleighs in winter to these 
factories. 

Mr. Walden was a prosperous New York merchant. While summering 
in the Highlands, he extended his drive with Mrs. Walden many miles 
further, and came upon this charming valley of the Wallkill, through 
which a broad stream flowed. They saw the old mill at the very foot of 
the cataract, and a tiny cottage in a grove of locusts further down the 




Edward Whitehead. 



TOWN OF MONTGOMl-:kV. 313 

stream. The old niercliant perceiveil the wonderful i)ossibilities of this 
picturesque spot, and he lost no time in develcping the i)lace. He pur- 
chased large tracts of land covering the region, closed uj) his extensive 
city business and moved here. The place grew very slowly in the earlier 
years, even after its incorporation in 1855. Down to 1868 the population 
of the village did not exceed 600 souls. Of course, the manufacturing in- 
terests had not been fully developed at that time. The people were still 
largel\- employed in trades and farm work. The New "^'ork Knife Com- 
pany began business in 1856 by purchasing the cloth mills of Scofield, 
Capron & Gowdy. 

There are two tine iron bridges over the Wallkill at this ])oint, many 
handsome private residences on the heights on either side of the river, 
several busy factories, churches, schools, newspapers, numerous stores 
and shops of everv kind, and there is a general aspect of thrill and prog- 
ress all thr'jugh the pretty village. Most of this growth is mo<lern : nearly 
all the more substantial structures are less than forty years old. The act 
of incorporation was passed April 9, 1855. and the first village meeting 
was held the following week. Augustus F. Scofield was the first ]>resi- 
dent, and continued six years. Previous to the incor])oration of the village 
the fire company had been in existence some time. This organization was 
known as "The W^alden Fire Incorporation," an 1 it constituted the Fire 
Department of the village for years afterwards. In 1865 Daniel Torbush 
was the chief engineer, and in 1880. when the company was known as 
"Enterprise No. i." the chief engineer was (Granville Crist. 

A new comer in Walden in 1859 says there were then only three jiroui- 
inent business houses, those of Marcus K. Hill, Ebenezer Knapp, and 
Josei)h Millspaugh. It seemed to him then that about nine-tenths of the 
inhabitants there were named either Millspaugh or Ki<ld. .Augustus F. 
Scofield was then the leading citizen of wealth and influence, having a 
large shawl factory. The hotels were the Eagle and the St. Nicholas, as 
they are at present. Scofield Hall was used for public as.semblies and such 
eminent lecturers as John G. Saxe, Rev. Edward K. Beecher, Park Benja- 
min and Fanny I^'ern apjicared there. The much loved village parson was 
old "Dominie" Schoonmaker. who labored there faithfully for many 
years. The industries of Walden were then confined to the shawl factory, 
the satinet factory of Giles Andrews, and the knife factory. James Todfl 
was widelv known as "the model farmer of Orange Countv." George 



314 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Weller was a prominent resident greatly devoted to all the village inter- 
ests, and his home was regarded as a scene of unbounded hospitality and 
good cheer. 

The first introduction of gas in Walden many years ago was not a 
financial success, and the company abandoned the project. A public water 
system was introduced in 1892. Previous to that time water for fires had 
to be taken through long hose from the Wallkill and Tinn Brook streams. 
The electric fire alarm system was installed about fifteen years ago. The 
newspaper known as the Walden Herald was established about 1869, and 
the Walden Citizen is in iis twentieth year. 

Near the line of Newburgh, in the northeastern part of the town, is the 
old hamlet of St. Andrews, which was left behind in the later development 
of Walden with its great water-power facilities. It was named for the 
ancient Episcopal church there, which is now located at Walden. 

Maybrook is an important railway junction, in the extreme southeast 
corner of the town. The population, which numbers about four hundred, 
is composed principally of railroad employees. 

Coldenham is near the New Windsor boundary, but in the southeast- 
ern part of the town. The title came from the Golden family and the 
hamlet was the home of the Lieutenant Governor and acting Chief Magis- 
trate of the New York Colony. 

Allard's Corners on the northwest border, and Scott's Corners, east of 
Montgomery village, are other small hamlets of minor importance. 

BANKS. 

Le Fevre and De Garmo were the first bankers, beginning business in 
Walden in 1870. They continued but a short time, and in 1873 the Ex- 
change Bank was organized with George W. Stoddard in active charge. 
This was merged into the Walden National Bank in 1877 and was suc- 
ceeded in 1897 by the National Bank of Walden, the name of the present 
institution. The Walden Savings Bank, the oldest and largest financial 
institution in the town, began business June i, 1872, with the following 
officers: Seth M. Capron, president; Thomas W. Bradley, vice-president; 
and Peter LeFevre, secretary and treasurer. 

The Montgomery National Bank began business November i, 1905, 
with the following officers : William H. Senior, president; John A. Crab- 
tree, vice-president ; E. I. Emerson, cashier. Directors : William Eager, 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 315 

John j. \'aii(lcrocf, John A. Crabtrec, Clunks D. Wait, J. llarvcv Harris, 
Dr. E. Ross Elliott. William F. Lodge, Harvey Tuttlc. William II. .Senior, 
Walter R. Comfort, I-Ycd W. Tower. 

INDUSTklKS. 

Nearly all the soil of this town is well adapted to successful agriculture 
in its varied forms. While much of the land has been devoted to meadows 
and grass, fine crops of grain were grown, wheat especially, in the earlier 
years of the settlement. Fruit is also grown to a considerable extent in 
some localities with profit. Orchards were planted in the town nearly a 
hundred years ago by Robert Griffith, John Miller, Andrew Graham, 
Hamilton Morrison and others. 

The bonding of the town in aid of the Wallkill Valley and other rail- 
way construction had a depressing effect upon the people and their prop- 
erty for a time, and there was much opposition to the scheme, among the 
farmers especially. But the advantages of the railways became api)arent 
in a few years, and probably no one would now care to abolish the present 
traffic facilities afforded or longer regrets the cost. 

The opening of the Wallkill \'alley Railway to Montgomery, in 1866 
was a most important event for the town and county. 

The Walden Woolen F'actory was established in 1823 by Jesse Scofield 
and Dr. Coburn. It was at first known as the "Franklin Company." 
There were frequent changes in the firm and management in the succeed- 
ing years. But for over fifty years this old plant was the most important 
business feature of \\'al(Ien. and it had much to do with its early growth 
and develoi)ment. The buildings were of stone and of the most durable 
character, and the water-power ample. 

The New York Knife Company has long been regarded among the 
largest cutlery plants in the Ignited States. It was organized in 1852 
and operated at ]\Iatteawan. Dutchess County, until 1856. when it was 
moved to Walden to the building formerly used as a cotton factory. Table 
and pocket cutlery of every kind and quality are made in this establish- 
ment, which has achieved world-wide fame in the hardware trade, domes- 
tic and foreign. Thomas W'. Bradley was long the leading spirit of the 
concern, being the active superintendent as well as the president of the 
company. He served with valor and distinction in the Civil War, and be- 
came prominent in the military affairs of the .State afterwards. He also 



3i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

served in the State Assembly in 1875-76, and at present represents this 
district in Congress. 

The Walden Condensed Milk Company was organized in- 1864 with a 
proposed capital of $50,000. But it was reorganized three years later 
under the name of the Highland Condensed Milk Company. The enter- 
prise was finally abandoned soon afterward and the buildings were used 
by the Walden Soap Works. The Walden Brickyard began operations in 
1868 with James Gowdy at its head. The Walden Knife Company was 
established in 1870 with W. E. Gowdy as president. It is entirely de- 
voted to pocket cutlery. In 1891 Mr. Edward Whitehead became its 
president, since which time the industry has forged rapidly ahead, with 
the annual payroll exceeding a quarter of a million dollars. The Schrade 
Cutlery Company was organized in 1904. It is under the direct manage- 
ment of George Schrade and his brother, J. Louis Schrade. The Rider- 
Ericsson Engine Company, manufacturers of hot air pumping engines, is 
also a very important industry, giving employment to 125 men. The Woos- 
ter Manufacturing Company, makers of pants and overalls, conducts an 
extensive and increasing business. The firm of William Crabtree & Sons, 
manufacturers of worsted yarns with plants in Montgomery village and 
Newburgh, conducts an important industry. This was established in 1880 
by William Crabtree and Arthur Patchett, both now deceased. Two hun- 
dred persons are given employment by this progressive firm. 

The New York Condensed Milk Company established a very extensive 
branch of its business just north of Walden in 1880, at an initial cost of 
$200,000, and the buildings and entire plant have been greatly enlarged 
and improved since that time. It was intended to receive the milk from 
5,000 cows at the outset. John G. Borden, who became one of the most 
prominent and progressive men in that region in after years, was the first 
president of this important plant. Since his death the great enterprise, 
with its model farms, has been carried on most successfully by his daugh- 
ters, and it is still one of the great show places of this region of the State. 
The farms, though mainly in Ulster County, are highly cultivated and 
operated under the most modern methods. 

HISTORIC HOMES. 

The Colden house, on the Montgomery and Newburgh State road, at 
Coldenham, was built in 1765 by Cadwallader Colden, Jr. His father. Dr. 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 317 

Cachvalladcr Coldcn settled in Coldenham in 1728 on his patent of 3,000 
acres of land — he was the surveyor general of the province for eleven 
years, lieutenant governor for thirteen years and acting governor in 
1761, 1763, 1769 and 1774. lie gave to Cadwallader, Jr., on his marriage, 
five hundred acres of land, including the site on which this house stands. 
The land was all in woods, and Cadwallader, Jr., began at once to clear 
part of it for farming purposes ; with his own hands he felled the tirst 
tree, and up-rooted the first stub. After a few years the first dwelling he 
erected gave place to this permanent stone structure, then, one of the 
finest dwellings of the period. In it he lived a useful life, esteemed by all 
who knew him, and in it he died mourned as a public benefactor. Some 
years ago an addition to the house was built in the rear, and more recently 
a mansard roof and other improvements were added. The date of the 
erection of the building, and the names of its builders, are cut on a stone 
in the upper front center. Its historical associations, past and present, 
cover a period of one hundred and seventy-five years. 

The Thomas Colden mansion was built by Cadwallader Golden, Jr., for 
one of his sons. It is situated about a mile north of Goldenham, at Gol- 
den Hill, near what was the Newburgh and Ellenville plank roatl. It is 
a frame building with hipped-roof and is kept in excellent condition. 
After the death of Thomas Colden it was occupied by Cadwallader C. 
Colden, and more recently by Messrs. John and Joseph Kelly. 

The Haines house is situated about a mile east of the Goodwill Church, 
and a short distance south of the highway known as the Hadden road. 
It was built by Benjamin Haines who came into the precinct in 1739. The 
year in which the house was erected is not known, but it is probably 
the oldest house in the town. During recent years it has been occupied 
only for short intervals, and the walls are crumbling. This house is 
known as the CJld Hadden house, having been in the pxissession of suc- 
cesssive generations of that family for more than one hundred years. 

The Hill Brick house situated about three miles east of Montgomery 
on the State road was built by Nathaniel Hill in 1774 and occupied by his 
son, Peter, who was a soldier in the War of the Revolution. At his death 
the ownership and occupancy of the homestead passed to his son, Nath- 
aniel P. Hill, who was a prominent man — was sheriff, member of con- 
gress, and filled other important positions. One of his sons, Nathaniel P., 
had also attained prominence as U. S. senator from Colorado. 



3i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The Van Keuren Stone house, now generally known as the Downs 
House, about a mile west of Goodwill church, on the road to Mont- 
gomery, was built in part by Hendricus Van Keuren in 1768, and in part 
by a previous owner probably John McNeal. The house is in excellent 
condition and is, perhaps, the oldest unchanged occupied house in the 
town. 

The Beemer house, situated on the old Stage road from Goshen to 
Albany, nearly three miles north of Montgomery and about two miles 
west of Walden, was built by Adam Beemer in 1770. It is a framed build- 
ing and has been recovered and repaired, but otherwise not materially 
changed. It is now in fair condition. 

The Hans Youngblood house is situated on the road leading from the 
Searsville road north to the former site of Graham's church on the Pine 
Bush road. Tradition says it was built before the French aad Indian 
War. It was used for a German school in 1761. and is not occupied at 
present. 

The Kidd house in the extreme southeasterly part of Walden was 
probably built in part by Alexander Kidd, who settled there in 1736. 
The year it was built is not known. Alexander Kidd was among the first 
elders of Goodwill Church. His descendants are numerous. 

SCHOOLS. 

One of the ancient landmarks is the Montgomery High School, for- 
merly known as the Montgomery Academy. This noted school is as old 
as our National Government. It had its inception in 1787, the year that 
the National Constitution was framed. It was the fourth oldest academy 
in the State, having been incorporated in 1791. Before 1787 the inhab- 
itants of the village and surrounding country felt the need of a school of 
a high grade, and during that year erected a school building on lots re- 
served in part for school purposes, when the village was first surveyed and 
laid out. In the autumn of 1787 teachers were employed and the school 
opened for pupils. During 1790 steps were taken to incorporate the in- 
stitution and place it under the care of the regents of the State Univer- 
sity, as appears from the following application and petition : 

"To the Regents of the University of the State of New York: Be it 
known that a certain tract of land pleasantly situated in the town of 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 319 

Montgomery, in the county of Ulster, in the center of a populous, fertile 
and wealthy country, hath lately been purchased, and a large and con- 
venient building of two stories high erected and completed thereon, for 
the use of a public academy for the instruction of youth 'in the learned 
languages and other branches of useful knowledge, that the expense of 
the undertaking hath been defrayed by the free and liberal benefactions 
of individuals, of whom the subscribers constitute more than one-half with 
respect to the contributions raised and collected to found said academy, 
and that a gentleman of liberal education, of very competent abilities and 
irreproachable moral character has been procured, with a tutor, to teach 
in said academy. 

The subscribers, pursuant to an act of the Legislature of the State of 
New York entitled an act to institute a university within this State, and 
for other purposes, passed April 13, 1787, respectfully make the applica- 
tion to the regents of said University requiring that the said academy 
may be incorix)rated agreeably to the said law. and be subject to the 
visitation of the said regents, and they do hereby nominate Arthur Parks, 
Matthew Hunter, J^.enjamin Sears, Henry X'anKeuren, Solomon Slight, 
Joseph Barber, James Clinton, Moses Freleigh, Daniel Bull, James Hun- 
ter, Peter Hill, David Galatian, Johannes Miller, Severyn T. Brown, 
Henry Smith, Ebenezer Clark and William Cross to be the first trustees 
of the said academy, declaring it to be their desire that the said trustees 
be called and distinguished by the name of the trustees of the Mont- 
gomery Academy in the County of Ulster. 

Andrew King. Jolni McKinstry. 

Nathan \V. Howell. James Moore. 

L. Sleglit. William Jackson. 

Matthew Hunter. .Matthew Gillespie. 

Stephen Goldsmith. Uavid Jagger. 

John Nicholson. Hugh Alillikcn. 

Benjamin Sears. Andrew Graham. 

James Clinton. Thomas Greggs. 

Hamilton Morrison. Jacob Meltzberg. 

Gideon Pelton. Alexander Leeds. 

Patrick Barber. Robert Kidd. 

Jacob Newkirk. James Mackay. 

David Galatian. Thomas Barklcy. 

William Cross. Stephen Ross. 

Severyn T. Bruyn. Stephen Crist. 

Johannes Mould. John Wilkin. 

Christian Rockefeller. A. M. .McCord. 

Jacob Linderman. \\'illiam Wilkin. 

Jacob Bookstaver. Robert Sewall. 



320 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



William Booth. 
Alexander P. Anderson. 
John Clark. 
James W. Wilkin. 
Johannes Miller. 
Willfam Weller. 
Jacob F. Bookstaver. 
Henry J. Smith. 
Neal Diggie. 
Henry Sinsabaugh. 
Henry Van Keuren. 
Peter Crans. 
Henry Smith. 
James Jackscn, Jr. 
Philip Millspaugh. 
John Linderman. 
William Cross. 
David Smith. 
James Hunter. 
Jacob Pitts. 
Henry German. 
John Barber. 
Daniel Bull. 
James M. Claghen. 
John Puff 
John Pool. 
John Sears. 
John Barclay. 
John Scott. 
Jeremiah Smith. 
Jane Crage. 
James T. Graham. 
John Haines. 
Thomas Beallie. 
Tunis Van Arsdale. -^ 
John Dunlap. 
Caleb Dill. 
Andrew Embler. 
Jason Wilkin. 
William Faulkner. 
D. G. Rogers. 
James Preston. 
Cornelius Schoonmaker. 
William Miller. 



David Miller. 
B. Hopkins. 
Samuel Boyd. 
Adam J. Doll. 
Martinus Crist. 
William Johnston. 
Daniel Cahill. 
John Millspaugh. 
Solomon bleght. 
John Robinson. 
John C. Millyberg. 
Henry Nealy. 
Benjamin Cradit. 
Frederick Bookstaver. 
Moses Latta. 
Jacob Sniedes. 
John A. Newkirk. 
James Hunter. 
William Crist. 
Johannes Yerkes. 
Christopher Moule. 
George Monnell. 
Joseph Burrows. 
William Hill. 
Thomas McKissock. 
Alexander Dorcus. 
Charles Young. 
Andrew Hart. 
James Kidd. 
William Erwin. 
John Hunter. 
John P. Haines. 
Peter Plill. 
Robert Hunter. 
David Crist. 
James Fitzgerald. 
Samuel P. Gale. 
William Faulkner, Jr. 
James Sutton. 
John Barber. 
Jonathan Miller. 
David Comfort. 
Matthew M. Rowe. 



The petition was dated January 3, 1791, and the act ot incorporation 
was passed the 23rd of April following. The school prospered and 
greater accommodations became necessary. In 1823 the main part of the 
present brick building- was erected at a cost of about $5,400. Nearly 
two-thirds of the cost was paid by State moneys ; the remaining third was 
raised by subscription through the activity and persistency of Johannes 
Miller. 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 321 

The academy ctintiiuKd to prosper until the free school system was 
adopted, when it began to decline. In 1881 it was transferrefl by the 
trustees to the Hoard of P'ducation of the jNIontgomery Union l">ec 
School, of which it is now ( it/)8) the academical department. The 
foUowinti: is a list of principals of the academy since it was incorporated : 
Rev. Alexander Miller, Nathaniel Howell, Nathan H. White, Reuben 
Xecly. lames Kin.^', Prof. Stansbury, William H. Weller, Rev. John 
Mcjimsay, Prof. Wilson, Jacob C. Tooker. twenty years. Silas S. Harmon, 
seven years. Rev Samuel B. Bell, D. D.. Joseph M. Wilkins, three years, 
Robert Simpson, Daniel K. Bull, Prof. Lasher, Prof. Graham, Prof. Gun- 
nison, Theron Little, Prof. Stevens, Prof. Beardsley, Prof. Cone, Ben- 
jamin C. Nevins, Prof. Demarest. Prof Rouse. This famous academy 
reached the zenith of its prosperity under Professors Tooker and Harmon. 

The town is divided into thirteen school districts and parts of districts; 
of these, twelve have school-houses in the town. These district schools 
will compare favorably with those of any other tow-n. It appears from 
trustees' reports for 1907 that the whole number of children of school 
age (between five and eighteen), residing in the town that year was i,- 
337; of these 1,299 attended school. The average daily attendance of 
these children was 850. The number of teachers employed at the same 
time was thirty-four. The total cost of sustaining these schools was 
$25,330; of this sum $17,892 was raised by district tax. The value 
of school-houses and sites was $42,450. Two of the districts (Mont- 
gomery and \\'ald>nO. are union free school districts. The former was 
established in i88r and now (1908), employs six teachers. The first 
principal was Reuben Fraser. The present board of education is : Dr. 
E. Ross Elliott, William Eager, William H. Senior. John A. Crabtree and 
William S. Hanlon. The latter was organized in 1859 and now employs 
eighteen teachers. The Board of Education in 1908 is: Sanford Ab- 
rams, Henry E. Williams. Frank Benedict, Benjamin S. French. Harry 
Hollingsworth, DeWitt C. Dominick. There is one parochial school in 
the town. 

CHURCHES. 

There are many ancient churches in this town. It was a sturdy Chris- 
tian people that first settletl in this region. After building their grist 
mills and providing themselves and families with log-cabins, or other 



322 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

rude shelter from the storm and cold of the severe winters which then 
prevailed, their next thought was for the church, where they might en- 
joy religious worship, hear the Scripture expounded and meet together in" 
praise and song. 

The oldest and best known of these churches in those early days was the 
Good Will Presbyterian Church. This was established by the Scotch- 
Irish settlers who came into the region in 1724.- The earliest records of 
this old church seem to have been lost. But the organization was repre- 
sented in the Synod of Philadelphia in 1729 by John McNeal as com- 
missioner. This date has, therefore, been taken for the establishment of 
the church, although it was doubtless in existence there some years earlier. 
The settlers of the region being long known as "the people of Wallkill," 
this church went under the name of the Wallkill Church, though incor- 
porated under the name first mentioned. The first church structure is 
believed to have been erected in 1735, although there was some rude build- 
ing set apart for religious worship some years before this. The building 
was improved and enlarged from time to time, some $8,000 having been 
expended upon it in this way in 1871. During the one hundred and sev- 
enty-nine years of its existence it has had but nine pastors : Rev. Joseph 
Houston, John Moffatt, Andrew King, Robert W. Condit, William Blain, 
David M. Maclise, D.D., James M. Dixon, D.D., David F. Bonner, D.D., 
and the present pastor, Rev. John H. Thompson, who has served the 
church for seventeen years. 

The Reformed Church of Montgomery was founded mainly by the 
German element in 1732. As the population increased divisions arose in 
this church and several other churches were formed from it. The first 
house of worship was a log structure built in 1732. And it is said that 
the entrance of this old church was by means of a ladder placed on the 
outside. All these early records were kept in the Dutch language, and the 
services were also conducted in Dutch for the first fifty years. Then for 
a time each alternate Sunday the English language was used. Rev- 
John Michael Kern seems to have been the first settled pastor. He came 
in 1772 and resigned in 1776. Rev. G. W. Mancius, of the old parent 
Kingston Dutch Church, had been acting as a supply previous to that date, 
until his death in 1762. Three different church buildings have occupied 
the site since the old block house was taken down in 1760. The first was 
a frame structure erected immediately thereafter. The church contained 



• -J-t-'"^'V'- 









»'/^.\ixxxiw/ ^-x^AXiaM sFZFi^^^kr 










■ ^ 1 •7fc-.x:.,j^^>--£^/O i j,/]5.iy> » >'/Orf?'^ \ 



O 

o 



3 



3 

Q 

15 
O 






/Nwxvm " ff 



/WXK 



^/f.-iT 



Q 



TOWN OF MONTGOMERY. 323 

sixty-eight pews, forty-six of which were occupied at a rental of £96 8s. 
Pews for the elders and deacons were on the right and left of the old- 
fashioned pulpit. Among the names of the pew-holders are foimd those of 
Rockefeller. Voungblood, Mould, Decker, Weller, Rcjbinson, etc.. ances- 
tors of many well-known families. The modern name of the church for 
years has been "the lirick Church of Montgomery." The present pastor is 
I'eter Crispcll. 

The St. Andrczu's Church at Walden, before alluded to, is another an- 
cient religious society. This people passed through a troublous existence 
during the Revolution, and the parish was left vacant for some years until 
1790. I'^inally, after emerging from a heavy debt, a new church was 
erected in the village of Walden in 1827. Then after many changes in 
rectors, another new church was decided upon in 1870. This with the 
parsonage cost $18,000. and in 1880 the church was finally consecrated 
free from debt. 

The Reformed Presbyterian Church of Coldenhain was organized in 
1/95' ^"*1 ^ house of worship built four years later. This was replaced by 
a new structure in 1838. Dr. Alexander McLeod was the pastor from 
1800 to 1812. The present pastor, Rev. Thomas Patton, was installed in 

1893. 

The Reformed Dutch Church of Berea, which came as a secession from 
the Good-will Church, got its first pastor in 1823, Rev. James Ten Eyck, 
the congregation having been incorporated two years before. When the 
first little church was built it was surrounded by a forest, the timber for 
the building being cut from the site itself. 

The First Reformed Church of JValden was incorporated in 1870, al- 
though the society was formed forty years before, and the church building 
was completed in 1838 at a cost of $12,000. Some $5,000 more was after- 
ward spent upon the parsonage. Rev. M. \^. Schoonmaker was the min- 
ister from 1849 to 1888. The present minister. Rev. W. W. Schomp. was 
installed in 1897. 

The First Presbyterian Church of MontS!^omery was incorporated in 
1832 and Rev. James O. Stokes was the first pastor. There \vere many 
changes in this pastorate in the succeeding years, and the debt piled up 
gradually until it reached $2,300 in 1848. a parsonage having been built 
meanwhile. This debt was. however, fully met that year under the pas- 
torate of Rev. E. R. I'airchild. whose health soon failed, however. Rev. 



324 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

J. C. Forsyth was installed in 1875 and he continued in that field for many 
years. 

The Methodist Church of Montgomery, was organized in 1829 with 
Rev. B. Howe and J. W. Lefever as priests. The '"table expenses" of 
Mr. Howe were $100 and those of Lefever $50, which was in addition to 
the disciplinary allowance. A small church was built that year and a par- 
sonage four years later. 

In 1906 an Episcopal mission was established in Montgomery. 

The Waldcn Methodist ChurcJi was incorporated in 1850. Previous 
to that the "classes" there were under the pastoral care of the Mont- 
gomery preachers. In fact, it was not until 1866 that the Walden Church 
became an independent charge. Then a parsonage was built and the 
church building was enlarged and improved in 1870 at a cost of $6,000. 
In 1893 it was removed to the east side of the church lot and remodeled. 

The Church of the Holy Name in the village of Montgomery was in- 
corporated in 1870. Rev. Hugh S. O'Hare was the pastor. 

The inception of the Church of the Most Precious Blood in Walden 
was in 1887. Services were held in Lustig's and later in Condon's hall. 
The church was dedicated by Bishop Farley July 5, 1896. The officiating 
priests have been Rev. C. A. Meredith, Rev. P. Morris and Rev. F. C. 
Lenes. 

Among the recent church organizations of the town is the People's 
Baptist Church at Maybrook, erected in 1906. No settled pastor. 

Several of the old cities of the dead date back to 1725. The Wallkill 
Valley Cemetery Association was organized in 1865 and the first burial 
made May i, 1867. This cemetery commands general admiration in the 
beauty and grandeur of its location. It comprises forty-one acres and the 
interments exceed 2,000. In 1905 Colonel Thomas Bradley erected here a 
bronze statue, "The Volunteer," memorial to Company H, 124th Regi- 
ment. Other burial places are Goodwill, St. Mary's, Riverside, Berea, 
Brick Church and Coldenham. 




Wickham T. Shaw. 



TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. 325 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. 

Bv WiCKiiAM T. Shaw. 

LOCATION, AREA, ETC, 

TWIS is one of the smaller towns of Orange Couniy ami it is located 
in the acute angle of the western boundary line of the county 
formed by the indentation of Sullivan County. The territory 
of the town is diamond-shaped. The Shawangunk stream, which flows 
through the town lengthwise toward the northeast, leaves it in the apex 
of the angle and then forms the boundary line separating Orange from 
Sullivan, as well as the northwestern bounds of the towns of Wallkill and 
Crawford. 

It is bounded on the north by Sullivan County and a very small part 
of the town of Wallkill, east by that town, south by the towns of Waway- 
anda and Greenville, and west by the town of Deer Park. 

The area of the town is now placed at 16,104 acres. The assessed 
valuation of all the real and personal property, as reported by the 
assessors in 1906, was $632,075, upon which the tax levy for that year 
was $3,903.36. In 1880 this land was valued at $673,470, and the annual 
tax was $5,157.79. But it would be manifestly unfair to assume that the 
land is less valuable now than it was twenty-five years ago. The average 
town assessor in the State of New York, under the prevailing ]X)litical 
conditions and customs, is largely a creature of circumstance, with strange 
vagaries in judgment, if indeed he is called upon to exercise any judgment 
at all under the official limitations of his position. Then. too. standards 
of value have greatly changed during that time. 

This Mount Hope territory lies wholly north of ihe old couniy line 
which originaHy divided Orange from Ulster County. 

XATURAI- I-EATfRES. 

The Shawangunk mountain range in the western border of the town is 
the most important topographical feature. This northern spur of the 



Z26 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Alleghanies is known as the Blue Mountains in New Jersey and the Kitta- 
tiny Mountains in the State of Pennsylvania. Beginning in the central 
part of Ulster County the general trend of the range is toward the south- 
west for some 250 miles. There are few isolated peaks, and the greatest 
altitude reached is about 1,800 feet above tide. The more notable eleva- 
tions of this range are Sam's Point, near Ellenville, Sky Top and Eagle's 
Clifif at Lake Mohonk, all of which are in Ulster County. The Indian 
word Shawangunk, which has been used to designate this range since the 
settlement of the region, signifies "great wall" in the aboriginal vernacu- 
lar, which in fact seems especially appropriate as a descriptive title. 

The eastern slopes of these mountains are uniform and well adapted to 
cultivation, even to their summits, in most instances. But on the western 
side they are broken and precipitous. The approach from the east has 
been fitly described by an old writer in the following language : "The eye 
rests upon fields of grain and grass, upturned furrows, the verdure of 
waving trees and the homes of thrifty hospitality, spread out from valley 
to crest, over the south and the far north, in unwearying panoramic beauty 
— a patchwork of gold and green, of brown and gray, of white and 
red." 

The Shawangunk River is another dominating feature in this Mount 
Hope township. Rising in the adjoining town of Greenville on the south, 
this stream enters the Mount Hope territory near the middle of the south- 
ern boundary line and flows northeasterly through the central portion of 
the town, leaving the north boundary line at the apex of Sullivan County, 
as before stated. 

The Little Shawangunk rises at Shawangunk Lake, on the eastern bor- 
der of .the town, flows northward along the line some four or five miles, 
then crosses over into the town of Wallkill, anon reentering Mount Hope 
in the northeast corner, and finally unites with the parent stream in the 
western bounds of Wallkill. There are several small tributaries which 
enter the Shawangunk from the west and drain the mountain slopes ef- 
fectually. 

This territory also presents many geological features of interest which 
have attracted considerable attention in past years. Here, as elsewhere in 
this mountain range, rich mineral deposits have been found. Lead, copper 
and zinc ores were discovered many years ago, and numerous mining 
companies have been formed in the town. 



TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. ^ij 

EARLY SR rT[.i:.M F.NT. 

This being one of the newer towns of ilie eounty, having been taken 
from the towns of Wallkill and Deer Park in 1825, the details pertaining 
to its early settlement are of course embodied in the history of those towns 
and cannot well be treated separately in this place at much length. 

.\niong the early pioneers in this section was John Finch, who settled 
in what was afterward known as h'inchville. The records show he was 
there in 1733 at least. He came from Horseneck, Conn., settling first at 
Goshen, where it was said in after years he was the first adult person to 
receive luirial in the Goshen churchyard. 

Jasper Writer came from Germany, and after spending a few years in 
Philadelphia he removed to this section and settled on what was after- 
ward known as the Writer farm. This was probably before 1763, as he 
was over a hundred years old when he died in 1842. 

Ashbel Cadwell was another early settler here, and his grandson, Har- 
vey R. Cadwell, in later }cars became a prominent citizen of Otisville. 

The Green family was also among the early settlers here. Israel Green, 
the pioneer, started at Middletown, and he had many children, some of 
whom lived in the Otisville section. Daniel Green, his brother, settled 
near Finchville. William Shaw must also be numbered with the well 
known Mount Hope pioneers, and he settled near Flowells some years 
before the Revolution and left many worthy descendants in that 
region. 

.Stei)hen St. John was another enterprising and public spirited citizen 
of that little village. James Finch ■served in the militia during the Revo- 
lution for more than three months, anrl also in the French and Indian war 
in 1755 and 1756. In his youthful days he served as valet to General 
Abercrombie at Fort Stanwix. 

Benjamin W'oodward. already mentioned, came into the section in 
1773 from Stonington, Conn. He served several sessions in the Legisla- 
ture, was a member of the Constitutional Convention in 182 1, and was 
state senator from 1827 to 1830. His son Charles also represented his 
tov.n m the Legislature in 1863 and 1864. 

Joshua Corwin was another Mount Hope pioneer who came there some- 
time before the Revolution, coming from South' >ld. L. I. He had eight 
children, who 'settled on an extensive tract of land in that region. 



328 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Jacob Wiggins came very soon after the Revolution and settled two 
miles south of Otisville. 

ORGANIZATION OF THE TOWN. 

The act of incorporation of Mount Hope was passed in 1825, as before 
stated. But the new town was then named "Calhoun" in honor of the 
distinguished South Carolina Senator, John C. Calhoun, whose patriotic 
course as secretary of war during the contest with Great Britain in 1812 
won him great favor with the people of this entire region. But they soon 
regretted this action and the honor conferred because of Calhoun's course 
and policy during the nullification discussions of 1831 and 1832. There 
was a violent revulsion of public opinion and everybody wanted to drop 
this now unpopular name of the town without ceremony, thus showing 
their open disapproval of the new policy of the Southern statesman. A 
public meeting was held, the old name was dropped with a heavy thud 
and the present title of "Mount Hope" was unanimously adopted with 
much enthusiasm. In response to a popular petition sent tO' the Legisla- 
ture in 1833 a law was passed March 14 of that year discarding the old 
name and ratifying the new one. The plan of thus honoring a political 
favorite of the hour, however distinguished and popular he might be, had 
proved a dangerous experiment even in those eight short years, and the 
people were now resolved to adopt some title for their town which could 
not be affected by the sands of time or the progress of human events. 

While all the earlier records of this town were destroyed by fire in 1848, 
the account of the first town meeting, which was held at the house of 
Joseph Conklin, April 5, 1825, is happily preserved in the books of Deer 
Park. Joseph Chattle and Richard Penny were the presiding justices of 
the peace. One hundred and fifty dollars were raised for the support of 
the poor for the ensuing year and $35 for the maintenance of bridges. 
Joseph Chattle was chosen the first supervisor and Joseph Conklin town 
clerk. While many of the principal ofificers were chosen by ballot, all the 
minor town officials were selected by the primitive method of raising of 
hands. Four constables were chosen, six firemasters, four fence viewers 
and forty-one highway masters. Just what the duties of the latter were 
can only be conjectured, as very little attention was paid to the public 
roads of that period or their repair, and fortunately so, perhaps, because of 



TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. 329 

the piiiniiive and defective methods in vogue. The official list of the town 
included also three assessors, two overseers of the poor, three commis- 
sioners of hig-hways, three school commissioners and three school inspec- 
tors. 

The first town meeting after the fire was in 1849. At that liiiK- the 
rather extravagant civil list of the town had been somewhat reduced in 
number. One hundred dollars were then raised for repairs to roads and 
bridges. 

It is interesting to note in passing that in 1906 the sum raised for the 
maintenance of public roads alone in the town under the money system of 
road work was $2,743.33. ( )f this amount $933.12 was received from the 
State and $260 from the poll tax. 

Ln TLE SHAWANGUNK KILL. 

Heretofore it has been said that the little Shawangunk Kill, in this 
town, was of such little importance that historians declined to mention it, 
yet this stream, 1\ ing practically all in the town, was at one time the 
scene of five thriving saw-mills in operation, but which have since disap- 
peared. Yet the city of Middletown in i8()0 saw a basis of great water 
works in this stream, and just from the line at the headwaters of this kill 
in the town of W'allkill, erected a reservoir which was known as Highland 
Lake, containing about 500,000,000 gallons of water. On April 22, 1901, 
just below Highland Lake and in the town of Mount Llope, the city of 
Middletown decided to erect another lake, and the contract was let to 
Charles Sundstrom of the city of Middletown, who. by the erection of 
what was known as Shawangunk, Greenleaf and Steward dams, im- 
pounded a large quantity of water, which was to form a part of the 
Middletown system. 

This work was at the cost of something like $57,000, and was con- 
nected with Mohagen Lake by a twenty-inch conduit, and also a twenty- 
four-inch conduit was extended in a westerly direction to a point in the 
Shawangimk Kill, alxjve Mount Hope, from which it was intended to take 
water at high times, and conduct it to what was called Shawangiuik 
reservoir. 

This reservoir when full contains over 434.000,000 gallons of water, 
and has an acreage of about 102 acres, on what was formerlv known as 



330 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the Greenleaf farm. It will be observed that Highland Lake had been 
erected some fourteen years, but since Shawangunk Lake was erected, 
litigation sprang up from the mill owners on the big Shawangunk Kill, as 
far north as Pine Bush, and all the farmers on the line of the little 
Shawangunk Kill were brought into proceedings for condemnation, and 
the payment of damages for the taking of this water, and this litigation, 
which continued some two or three years, was finally settled in the year 
1907, when all water rights to both kills were finally determined, but the 
city of Middletown had paid in expenses and damages something like 
$25,000. 

VILLAGES. 

The village of Mount Hope is in the southwestern part of the town. 
This name was bestowed long before the formation of the town itself, 
which was evidently named after the old village. The site of the hamlet 
is a commanding elevation, and there is a charming view of the surround- 
ing landscape on all sides far and near. 

Benjamin Woodward and Dr. Benjamin Newkirk are credited with the 
establishment of the place in May, 1807. On the eighth day of that month, 
after the "raising bee" was over, James Finch, the old settler, called the 
assembly to order and made a very enthusiastic speech, during which he 
christened the place "Mount Hope" with proper ceremony. 

Otisville was settled in 1816 by Isaac Otis, a merchant from New York, 
and named for him. There were but three houses on the upper street, 
and probably but little more than a dozen buildings comprised the entire 
village when the Erie Railroad was opened on November 3, 1846. 

The officials of the road who arrived on the first train dined at the 
hotel of Ambrose W. Green, who for many years was one of the leading 
citizens of Otisville. At this time, 1846, Dr. Avery Cook lived and had 
his office near where the depot stands. Galen Otis owned the only store 
which stood where he later built a large square house. Ezra Coleman lived 
and had his wagon-making shop where Dr. Writer now lives. Samuel K. 
Wheat was the harness-maker, and lived where later Judson Van Duzor 
lived. Stanford Harding was the blacksmith, and Squire Baker had a 
cooper shop. Harvey R. Cadwell, a member of Assembly in 1862, 
owned the farm on the north, and Smith Loomis, father of Supervisor 
Charles Loomis, owned the farm on the western boundary of the village. 




Garrett H. I ymeson.. 



TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. 331 

The schoolhouse in 184O was iK-arly a mile xnuli (if ilic villaj^jc on tlic 
plains, the present site of the cemetery. .V church was also there. This 
same year Algernon Sidney Dodge, son of Benjamin Doge, of Mount 
Hope, came to Otisville and leased the store of Galen Otis. Alsop Wood- 
ward Dodge, son of Algernon Sidney Dodge, now resides in Middlctown, 
and from him we learned some of the facts contained here. 

Ambrose Woodward Green, mentioned above, was born in the town of 
Greenville in 1813. His father was Charles S. Green, and his grandfather 
was Daniel Green, a soldier of the Revolution from Orange County. 

Ambrose W. Green settled in Otisville in 1835, and for a time carried 
on the tailoring business, w-hich he discontinued, and built the Washing- 
ton Hotel, now the Greenleaf Hotel, conducting it for some time in con- 
nection with other business. 

Before the Erie came to Otisville, Mr. Green owned a market wagon 
route to Newburgh, going twice a week by way of I>loomingburg. While 
Otisville remained the western terminal of the Erie, Mr. Green also owned 
a stage line to Forestburg, Sullivan County, connecting with lines into 
Pennsylvania for Honesdale and other western points. He was interested 
in building the Otisville and Wurtsboro turnpike. Mr. Green sold the 
\\'ashington Hotel and about 1850 built the hotel near the railroad track. 
While conducting this hotel, he was engaged in the lumber and coal busi- 
ness. From 1863 to 1870 he was extensively interested in the lead mining 
operations on Shawangunk Mountain. The decline in the value of lead 
after our Civil War caused the mines to be discontinued, and Mr. Green 
later sold his hotel and removed to a farm a couple of miles north of Otis- 
ville, where he died in July, 1888. 

The coming of the Erie boomed Otisville for the ne.xt few years. 
A Methodist and a Presbyterian church were built and a little later 
a Catholic church. Several stores and many flwellings \vere erected. 
Market wagons came here twice a week with farmers' produce for ship- 
ment to New York. Previous to the building of the Midland Railroad 
hundreds of teams throughout the winter, while the Delaware and Hudson 
Canal was closed, came to Otisville from Sullivan and western Ulster 
Counties, with leather from the tanneries, and returned with the green 
hifles for tanning. For many years, until the introduction of refrigera- 
tor cars, Otisville was the western terminal of the milk train. 

George Strickland and Joel D. Northrup, residents of Otisville, were 



332 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the conductors — the latter for many years. The Orange County Express 
for several years went no further west than Otisville. The gravel and 
construction train for this section, with nearly a hundred employees, had 
its headquarters at Otisville. Until coal was used as the fuel for the en- 
gines of the Erie, Otisville for many years was the principal point where 
the thousands of cords of wood were received which the Erie consumed 
yearly. This wood was all sawed by hand, and many men were employed. 
Many citizens of Otisville found various kinds of employment with the 
Erie during these years, and much of the prosperity of the village came 
from the dollars left here by the monthly pay-car of the Erie. 

TUBERCULOSIS SANATORIUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK. 

To the historian of the future the name Otisville will be associated 
with one of the great sanitary advances made in this country, namely, 
the establishment, by a municipality, of a tuberculosis sanatorium outside. 
the political limits of that municipality. 

The establishment of such a sanatorium was first suggested in 1889. 
At that time, however, not even a medical sentiment was ripe for such a 
movement. In the succeeding fifteen years, little progress was made to- 
ward a realization of these plans, and it was not until Dr. Thomas Dar- 
lington became commissioner of health that any tangible results were 
achieved. He proved an aggressive and resourceful champion. With 
political, corporate, and private interests leagued together to prevent the 
city from acquiring a site, it was largely owing to the indefatigable labors 
of Dr. Darlington that the most determined opposition to the plan was 
overcome. 

After carefully examining many sites, it was finally determined to estab- 
lish the sanatorium at Otisville, a little village lying in tlie Shawangunk 
Mountains, and about seventy-five miles from New York City. As a south- 
ern exposure was desired, the grounds, covering an area of over 1,400 
acres, were selected on the southeastern slope of one of the most pic- 
turesque and most favorably situated mountains of the entire range. The 
grounds have an altitude varying from about 800 feet to 1,500 feet above 
sea level. The sanatorium property consists of what were formerly thir- 
teen separate farms, which were purchased at different times during the 
years 1905 and 1906, the health department first taking possession for the 
city of New York on December i, 1905. 



TOWN OF MOUNT HOPE. 333 

To avoid delay in establishing the institution on a working basis, it was 
deemed best to renovate and remodel the buildings on the ])ro|)erty, anrl 
use them until such time as the needs of the sanatorium would re(|uire the 
erection of new ones. By July, 1906, the institution was ready to receive 
its first patients, and a year after that date had accommodations for about 
100. 

Since the sanatorium is designed for the treatment of those ill with 
tuberculosis in the early stages of the disease, there is only a small build- 
ing for hospital accommodations. The rest of the buildings, in which the 
patients practically live outdoors, are portable houses and shacks. All the 
frills and ruffles so universally connected with the construction of public 
buildings have been omitted; everything has W-vn suljordinatrd \i> that 
which is best for the patients. 

There are six portable houses, which are set on posts and can be taken 
apart and transferred to any location desired. The houses all measure 
ten by sixty feet, and are divided into five rooms. The center room, 
heated on cold days, is used as a bathing and dressing room, as well as 
a sitting room in inclement weather. Those on either side are used as bed 
rooms. Each room has four windows, two of which are always open and 
so arranged as to avoid all draughts. Each room contains one bed. The 
two rooms on either end are entirely open on the three sides, a fine screen 
only enclosing to keep out insects, etc. Heavy canvas curtains are folded 
in a roll outside, and can be dropped in stormy weather. These end rooms 
each accommodates two patients, thus making a capacity of six to each 
house. 

In the latter part of 1906 a one-story and a two-story shack were erected 
for the additional accommodation of patients ; and during 1907 two single- 
story shacks and one small house were built. 

The shacks are built in the form of the letter T. The stem of the T 
consists of a room containing the washstands, lockers for each patient, 
and toilets and baths. In front of this is a sitting room, and opening from 
either side of this are the sleeping rooms. The latter are practically only 
verandas, being open in front and on the side, while for protection against 
storms and severe winds there is a similar provision to that used on the 
portable houses; that is. the curtains ordinarily rolled up arc lowered, 
shutting oflF the verandas from the outside. A single-story shack accom- 
modates twelve patients, six on each veranda. The two-story shack ac- 



334 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

commodates just double that number, being exactly alike in its two stories. 

A feature of considerable importance in an institution of this kind is the 
manner in which the different patients are segregated. As nearly as possi- 
ble patients in the same physical condition as well as those who are apt 
to be congenial are assigned to the same quarters. 

Every patient is closely observed for about ten days after admission. 
The amount and frequency of rest, exercise and work is determined at all 
times by the condition of the patients. They are assigned to work accord- 
ing to their strength and capabilities. All dining-room duties, such as 
waiting on the table, washing dishes, and preparing vegetables, are per- 
formed by selected patients who show but slight lesions, negative sputum, 
and have no cough. Many of the patients are able to do farm work, and 
this keeps them out in the air and relieves their ennui. 

In a large institution of this kind the problem of sewage disposal is 
not an easy matter. But by the aid of expert sanitary engineers this has 
been satisfactorily overcome. Thousands of feet of pipe have been laid, 
and an up-to-date disposal plant has been erected. The effluent from this 
plant will have been so purified as to be practically indistinguishable from 
pure water. 

An abundance of pure water has also been provided, and is supplied at 
a high pressure to all the buildings. Fire plugs are scattered about the 
sanatorium grounds, and a fire-fighting system has been organized. 

The sanatorium has its own dairy, for the patients are encouraged to 
drink considerable milk. The cow barn and the milk handling rooms in 
connection with this, are immaculately clean, and this condition is re- 
flected by the milk, which is of the highest possible purity. 

The one fact which stands out prominently at the sanatorium is the 
broad foundation on which the whole work has been planned. The work 
is being directed with admirable foresight, and will yield immense returns 
in the fight against tuberculosis in New York City. The sanatorium was 
established in order to provide a place for treating these consumptives of 
New York who are unable to pay, the large army who until now have 
had merely the clinics and dispensaries, but for whom country treatment 
is most desirable. The city maintains the patients absolutely free, the 
only condition being that the disease is not too far advanced. 

The present capacity of the institution, about 150, is only a small frac- 
tion of what it will be five or ten vears hence. Yet even these small num- 



TOWN OF MOUNT IIorE. 335 

bers arc an iniiiicnsc ]X)tetUial for good when tliev return to tin- citv cured 
or improved, for lliev carry with them habits of cleanliness and pergonal 
hygiene and a knowledge of the value of fresli air, which are of incalcula- 
ble value not only to them, but to all with whom they come in contact. 

The ])resent officers of the institution are: Dr. Thomas Darlington, 
commissioner of health; Dr. Hermann M. Biggs, general medical officer; 
Dr. Irving D. Williains, superintendent; Dr. Edward J. McSweenv. resi- 
dent physician, and Dr. Frank P. ITauscr. assistant resident i)hvsician. 

RAILROADS. IIAMI.KT.S, .Ml.VK.S. 

Eric & Jersey Railroad. — In the year 1904 a corporation was organized, 
known as the Erie and Jersey Railroad Company, which ostensibly was 
an independent line, to be built from a point on the Erie railroad west 
of Guymard. on a circuitous route, to the north of the present Erie rail- 
road, to Turner. It was well understood that this road was a part of the 
Erie system, and was to be a double-track road, the projectors of w'hich 
alleged that it would be used for freight, but as it shortened the route of 
the road and was a much easier grade, when completed, undoubtedly 
would be used by many fast express trains. 

The condemnation laws of this State were not elastic enough to permit 
of taking property along the line of this route through the courts, and 
the greater part of the right of way had to be bought by the company, 
and fabulous prices were paid for its right of way, which was 130 feet 
wide. About eleven miles of this road is in the town of Mount Hope. 

71ie Erie & Jersey Railroad Tunnel. — On August 10, 1905, Bennett 
& Talbott, contractors, of Greensburg. Pa., contracted with the Erie 
& Jersey Railroad Company to build twelve miles of railroad, eleven miles 
of grading, which would require about 1,500.000 cubic yards of excava- 
tion, and about 15,000 yards of concrete masonry, and one mile, tliree liun- 
dred and three feet of tunnel through the Shawangunk Mountains, be- 
tween Guymard and Howclls. X. \'. The road was to be completed 
within a period of two years. Work was commenced on September 4. 
1905. by sinking a shaft at the center of the tunnel to a depth of 117 feet. 
Owing to a delay in getting the right of way. however, they were com- 
pelled to sink another shaft at the east portal of the tunnel to expedite 
the work, beginning on or about October i. 1905. The west portal of 
the tunnel was begun on or about November 15 of the same year. The 



336 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

completion of the work was delayed somewhat on account of the suspen- 
sion of work April, 1907. The excavation of the tunnel will now be com- 
pleted on or about the first of March, 1908, while the arching will be 
finished some time in July, 1908. The excavation of solid rock required 
for this work was 180,000 cubic yards. The timber required to support 
the roof was 1,700,000 feet, while the amount of concrete sidewall was 
8,000 cubic yards. The number of brick required was 8,000,000. The ma- 
chinery used in the construction of this tunnel was two improved Style A 
Marion steam-shovels, known as the "45-ton." Alpha Portland cement 
was used for the masonry. Francis Lee Stuart was chief engineer of 
this work. 

Finchville. — This hamlet is in the southwestern part of the town at the 
eastern base of the Shawangunk Mountains. It was founded by James 
Finch, the old settler, in whose honor the name was bestowed. But the 
precise date of this settlement is not accurately disclosed by the records. 
It was to this place that many terror-stricken women and children fled for 
refuge from the Mamakating Valley during the Indian troubles there. 

New Vernon. — This is a small hamlet in the northern border of the 
town. In fact, part of it is in Sullivan County. It was named thus to 
distinguish it from Vernon in New Jersey. It had one church and some 
twenty dwellings in i860, and has shown no very material increase in 
recent years. 

Guymard, in the western part of the town of Mount Hope, was the 
culmination of the plan of the Gumaer brothers to have a railroad station 
nearer Gumaer's, which was on the Delaware & Hudson Canal. After the 
strenuous times of 1857, labor could be obtained at sixty-five cents per 
day, and the Gumaer brothers decided to build a road from the canal to 
the Erie railroad, and then the station was named Guymard. 

About 1862 they concluded to extend the new road to the old turnpike 
on top of the mountain. While constructing that part of the road, lead 
was discovered. As a result of this discovery, many mines were pros- 
pected on the Shawangunk Mountain and were operated more or less 
from 1863 to 1870. Among these was the mine of the Guymard Lead & 
Zinc Co., from which several carloads of lead were shipped weekly. After 
the close of the Civil War the price of lead declined, and considering the 
crude mining methods and the cost involved, eventually the mines were 
abandoned. 



TOWN OF MOLNT HOPE. X^J 

Of the Gumaer brothers, Peter and Jackson arc now living ai (Ju)mard. 
Chauncey Gumaer, son of Peter, having had nearly twcnty-tivc years' 
mining experience in Colorado and the West, has returned and is nnw 
working the old mine at Guymard. With the improved methods of 
mining, he believes his new venture will prove successful. 

An incident of considerable local historical interest occurred here in 
the spring of 1863. The mine at Guymard was being worked by its 
owners, when one day one George H. Servoss, an Englishman, arrived 
and claimed that he owned the mine and all the mineral rights in this sec- 
tion through a grant by Queen Anne of England. He erected a small 
building on the grounds and his miners began operations. The rightful 
owners were wild with excitement and the news was soon communicated 
to others interested in mining in this section at that time. A day was 
appointed, when between 100 and 200 men assembled and tumbled Ser- 
voss's building over into the gully below the railroad track an' I drove him 
and his miners from the mine. This was probably the last attem]it of a 
subject of Great Fjritain to claim territory or granted rights in the United 
States which had been so definitely decided nearly a hundred years before 
by the ancestors of some who took part in driving this Englishman from 
his false claim. 

A singular incident in connection was this: Ambrose W. Green, who 
kept a hotel at Otisville. and was much interested in mining, was one of 
the men who assembled and helped to drive Servoss from his claim at 
Guymard. Servoss came to Otisville that night and with some of his 
miners stopped at Mr. Green's hotel. Being convinced that Yankee blood 
still predominated in this section, Servoss gave up his claim. While stop- 
ping with Mr. Green he began prospecting and on June 13. 1S63. leased 
the mineral right of Thomas Hawk of his farm situated less than a mile 
above Otisville. Ambrose W. Green witnessed the document and Servoss 
formed what was known as the Otisville Copper Mining Company, which 
he worked for some time, ."^ervoss died in New York Citv on December 
10. 1907. 

The Farmers' Library was incorporated in ( )oioher. 1S07. jnst a ccnturv 
ago. Its first meeting was held at the home of r.cnjamin Woodward. The 
original trustees were P»cnjamin P.. Xewkirk. r>enjamin Woo-lward. \\il- 
liam Mulock. James iMnch. Jr.. Peter E. Gumaer. Daniel Green. William 
Shaw. Jr.. Stephen Farnnm and Peleg Pelton. The library was c>^tab- 



338 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lished at once and it is said to have contained a valuable collection of his- 
torical works which were doubtless the only available books for such use 
at that early period of library literature. This old library was maintained 
there some thirty years, which certainly speaks well for the people of 
that region at that time. The educational influences of this old library 
upon the young people of that section during that period are said to have 
been most wholesome and of incalculable value. 

POINTS OF HISTORIC INTEREST. 

Of course Ihe Shawangunk Mountain range is always interesting to 
the geologist and historian. The pass through these mountains at Otis- 
ville is well worth visiting. It was the only break the Erie engineers 
could find when they laid out the railway, and they went over ten miles 
north of Port Jervis to utilize it. 

The old Finch homestead at Finchville has long been an object of in- 
terest, although the old house itself was burned many years ago. It was 
liere that the militia halted on their way to the fatal Minisink battlefield 
and took a hurried meal. Resuming their march over the mountaiu-S, it 
is said very few of the soldiers survived the terrible encounter and lived 
to recross those hills and again enjoy Mr. Finch's hospitality. 

The huge bones of a noted mastodon, which awakened much popular 
interest at the time, were found deepl\' imbedded in the soil on the old 
Allison farm, a short distance from Otisville, nearly fifty years ago. This 
remarkable find took the imagination back to the primitive era when 
these mammoth creatures roamed at will over this western continent. 

INDUSTRIES. 

Of course ihe primary and paramount interest of the people in this 
town from its early settlement even to the present day, has been agricul- 
ture. The cultivation of the land attracted the settlers thither and the 
raising of crops, together with lumbering, were the leading pursuits in 
which the residents engaged for over a hundred years. The sunny moun- 
tain slopes and the alluvial bottoms along the rivers were well adapted 
to plant growth, and the farmer obtained good results from his labor. 
Nearly all the ordmary crops to which the latitude and climate were 



T()\VX OF MOLXr IK )i'l-:. 339 

suited could he yrowii with profit. The town had its full share in the 
production of the famous "(Jranij^e C(junt\- hutter," which was made in 
large quantities for a time. i5ut for many years past, with the 
ample railway facilities alTorded for prompt shipment, nearly all the 
milk produced has hecn shipped to Xew York direct and the Initter- 
makiiig- branch of the dairy interest has been almost entirely discon- 
tinued. In fact, man\ of the farmers have been buyin<T liutter elsewhere 
for their own use. findin.i^" it more profitable to sell their milk, which of 
course has been produced to a far larj^er extent than ever before. 

Mii.nAin' I^STOK^. 

This town east of the mountaiii range was long regarded as a place 
of refuge for those fleeing from the frequent Indian attacks in the Mam- 
akating X'ailey. Historic records contain many thrilling and pathetic 
incidents of this nature, and they are presented in much graphic detail, 
although doubtless based largely upon traditionary authority. 

.\s to the history of Mount Hope during the Revolution, there is none, 
apart from the annals embraced in the records of the parent towns of 
Deer Park and W allkill. from which Mount Hope was taken forty-five 
years after the settlement of that little dispute with a tyrannical nation 
over certain questions regarding human rights and jiersonal libert\-. Con- 
cerning the roll of honor, belonging to this ierritor\- in that war for 
independence the reader is referred to the records of Deer Park and 
Wallkill. found on other pages of this work. 

!n the \\ ar of i8i2 the Wallkill Regiment was ordered out in full force, 
while the 128th Regiment of Sullivan was drafted into the service. This 
organization then included many men from this Mount Hope section. 
Those who served in that secondary strug-gle from here, mentioned in 
the records, are Joseph Stanton, Amzi Mapes, John Mulock. Zebulon 
GifFen, Frederick A. Seybolt. Richard Penny and Captain William MuKxk. 

During the war of the rebellion the town was of course an integral 
factor of the county, and it bore an honored share in that menn^rable 
struggle. The jwpulation being small the number who enlisted in the 
service of the government was not very large. Under the various calls of 
President Lincoln in 1862- 1863- 1864 J^ome 330 men went forth irom this 
town to serve their cinmtry. Tn addition to this, fifty-eight were drafted 
into the service. 



340 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

At a special town meeting held August 9, 1864, and ratified on the 
twentieth of the same month, a tax of $37,000 was ordered for the pay- 
ment of bounties at the rate of $800 per man. In February, 1865, another 
tax of $10,000 was authorized for a similar purpose. The town was after- 
ward reimbursed by the Government for bounties paid to the amount of 
$11,400. In addition to this, voluntary subscriptions and contributions 
amounting to $913 were sent forward at different times. Of the Mount 
Hope soldiers four were reported killed in action. The record also con- 
tains the names of forty-one other men who enlisted during 1863 and 
1864. 



TOW'X OF NEWBURGH. 341 



CHAPTER XX I \'. 
TOWN OI" Xi:\\lJl'RGH. 

EARLY TATEXTS. 

WHILE Xewburgh is the most important and impressive place in 
Orange Cotinty, Xewburgh Town, outside of the city, has its 
facts and points of interest. 

After the annuhiient, in 1669, of the patent purcliased of the Indians 
by Governor Dongan, and conveyed by him to Captain John Evans in 
1684 in which patent was inchuled the territory of the Xewburgh pre- 
cinct, the entire district was conveyed, between 1703 and 1705, in small 
patents, ten of which were in the Xewburgh precinct, and a list of which 
is given in the chapter on Xewburgh city. 

All patents were conditioned upon a payment of quit-rent, sometimes 
in money, sometimes in wheat or other commodity. 

The Palatine settlement, including a portion of the present city of 
Xewburgh and a portion of the town, is elsewhere considered. So are the 
changes and troubles that followed the coming of the new Dutch and 
English settlers, resulting in a decision of the council which practically 
terminated "The Palatine Parish by Ouassaick." Ruttenber says that 
when this decision was rendered the original members of the parish had 
long previously removed from it or been laid away in the quiet church- 
yanl. and adds: "As a people they were earnest, good men and women. 
Wherever their neighbors of subsequent migrations are met. their record 
compares favorably with that of immigrants from any other country. No 
citizens of more substantial worth are found under the flag of this, their 
native land, than their descendants : no braver men were in the armies 
of the Revolution than Herkimer and Muhlenberg. Had they done noth- 
ing in the parish but made clearings in its forests and planted fields they 
would be entitled to grateful remembrance. They did more ; they gave 
to it its first church and its first government ; and in all subsequent his- 
tory their descendants have had a part." 

As to the other patents: The Baird patent included the settlement of 
Belknap's Ridge, later classed at Coldenham. It was issued to Alexander 



342 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Baird, Abraham Van Vleque and Hermans Johnson, and was sold to Gov- 
ernor WilHam Burnet. The Kipp patent inchided the district east, north 
and west of Orange Lake, and adjoined the Baird patent on the south. It 
was issued to Jacobus Kipp, John Cong-er. Philip Cortlandt, David Prevost, 
OHver Schuyler and John Schuyler. It was divided into six parts, and 
these were subdivided into farms. About 1791 a company of Friends 
from Westchester County settled on the patent. They were Daniel, 
Zephaniah and Bazak Birdsall, John Sutton and John Thorne. The first 
purchasers on the Bradley patent are supposed to have been Johannes 
Snyder and John Crowell. The Wallace patent, issued to James Wallace 
alone, was afterwards purchased by John Penny, who sold 200 acres of 
it to Robert Ross, and settled, with his seven sons, upon the remainder. 
The Bradley patent was to Sarah, Catherine, George, Elizabeth and 
Mary Bradley, and was taken in their name by their father, Richard Brad- 
ley, who thus secured six tracts, of which that in Newburgh was one. 
The Harrison patent was to Francis Harrison, Mary Fatham, Thomas 
Brazier, James Graham and John Haskell. Ir included the present district 
of Middlehope, and its settlers were influential in the control of the town 
during its early history. The Spratt patent was in two parcels, 1,000 
acres in Newburgh and 2,000 acres in Ulster. It was issued to Andrew 
Marschalk and John Spratt, the latter taking the Newburgh tract. This 
was purchased in 1760 by Joseph Gidney, and took the name of Gidney- 
town. The Gulch patent was to Melichor Gulch and his wife and chil- 
dren of the original company of Palatines. The Johnson or Jansen patent 
adjoined the Gulch patent, and was the first occupied land in the north- 
western part of the town. 

The settlement of these patents resulted in dividing the old precinct 
of the Highlands in 1762 into the precincts of Newburgh and New Wind- 
sor, the former embracing the towns of Marlborough and Plattekill in 
Ulster County with the present town and city of Newburgh, and the 
latter covering substantially the same territory as now. 

GOVERNMENT BEGINNINGS. 

The next April, 1763, Newburgh's first town meeting was held at the 
house of Jonathan Hasbrouck, now known as Washington's Headquar- 
ters, and these officers were chosen : Jonathan Hasbrouck, supervisor ; 





^^p^^-^ 



ruWX Ul" \K\\JUR(.1I. 34.^ 

Samuel Sands, clerk ; Richard Harper, John W'infield and Samuel W'yatt, 
assessors; Daniel Gedney and Benjamin W'oolsey, poor masters; Jona- 
than McCrary, John Wandel, Burras Holmes, Isaac Fowler, Muphrey 
Merritt and Thomas Woolsey, patli masters; Xatlian Turdy and Isaac 
Fowler, fence viewers and appraisers. 

Ten years later Marlborough and Plattekill settlements were set off as 
New Marlborough, and left Newburgh with almost the same territory 
as that of the present town and city. The first supervisor of this rcfluced 
town was John Flewwelling and the first clerk was Samuel Sands. 

The territory of the present town embraces 26,882 acres in the extreme 
northeast portion of the county. The soil along the river front for a 
distance of five miles is warm, productive and well cultivated. The rock 
formations are largely slate and lime. In 1875 its population was 3.538, 
and the census of 1905 places it at 4,885 persons. 

.Subsequent to the incorporation of the city of Xewburgh, April 25, 
1865, the town of Newburgh was invested with the government '^i its 
own officers. The following supervisors have been elected : 

Nathaniel Barns. 1866; C. Gilbert Fowler. 1867; Xathaniel Barns, 
1868 to 1870; W. A. Pressler. 1871 ; John W. Bushfield, 1872 to 1877; 
Henry P. Clauson. 1878 to 1880; W. A. Pressler, 1881 to 1885; Oliver 
Lozier, 1886; John W. Bushfield. 1887; OHver Lozier. t888 co 1801 : 
William H. Post, 1892 to 1899; Henry P. Clauson, 1900 I0 1906: IVed 
S. McDowell. 1907 and 1908. 

EARLY P.XTRIOTISM. 

But little need be added to what has elsewhere been sketched regarding 
Xewburgh's part in the war for indepenrlcnce. Its people were prompt 
in patriotic response to the non-importation resolutions of tlie Continental 
Congress. It was one of the five precincts to publicly burn the pamphlet 
assailing those resolutions, entitled. "I'ree Thoughts on the Resolves of 
Congress," and on June 27, 1775. at a jMiblic meeting, appointed a Com- 
mittee of Safety : Wolvert Acker, lonathan Hasbrouck. Thomas Palmer, 
John Belknap, Joseph Coleman, Moses Higby. Samuel Sands, Stephen 
Case, Isaac Belknap. Benjamin Birdsall. John Robinson and others. When 
the pledge to support the acts of the Continental and Provincial Congress 
was ready 174 names were voluntarily sigited to it and twenty-one of the 



344 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

fifty- four men who refused to sign afterward made affidavit that they 
also would abide by the measures of Congress and pay their quota of all 
expenses. Some of the thirty-three Tories who stood out were imprisoned 
and some were executed. The Newburgh patriots as promptly reorgan- 
ized the militia of the precinct. They furnished two companies for a new 
regiment in September, and in December helped to constitute a regiment 
of minute men, and provided its colonel in the person of Thomas Palmer. 
They also, in 1776, organized as rangers or scouts to prevent attacks from 
hostile Indians. Throughout the war the citizens of Newburgh were con- 
spicuous as vohuitcers in the regular army and as local militiamen in 
the cause of the Revolution, and were subjected to much inconvenience 
and many privations in consequence of the presence of other troops, as 
elsewhere stated. Many of them were killed and many more taken pris- 
oners in the defense of the Highland forts, after which the poor taxes 
were increased from £50 to £800 and special donations were collected for 
those who had been deprived of their husbands or parents. 

The history of Washington's doings and sayings in and near Newburgh 
is so familiar that they need not be repeated here. 

EARLY ORGANIZATIONS. 

The Benevolent Society of the County of Orange was formed in Jan- 
uary, 1805, with the following officers: Hugh Walsh, president; Gen. 
John Skey Eustace, vice-president ; John McAuley, treasurer ; William 
Gardner, Secretary. 

In the sketch of Newburgh village and city mention has been made 
of the charter provision for a Glebe fair. This fair is believed to have 
been held occasionally as late as 1805, as there has been found in an old 
newspaper notice of one to be held in October of that year, with an offer 
of $125 as a premium to the jockey riding the best horse on the course 
of Benjamin Case, $50 to another jockey riding the best horse on the 
following day, and $25 to the jockey riding the best filly on the third day. 

The Newburgh Bible Society was organized September 9. 1818, at a 
meeting held in the Presbyterian Church of Newburgh villa'ge, after a dis- 
course by Rev. James R. Wilson. The first article of the constitution de- 
clared that its ''sole object shall be to encourage a wider circulation of the 
Scriptures, without note or •comment." The following officers were 



TOWN OF XEWnrRGII. 345 

elected: jinias Story, president; Isaac Belknap and Joseph Clark, vice- 
proii'ents; Rev. John Johnston, corresponding secretary; Charles Miller, 
recordiiii^ secretar\ : lleiiiamiii J. Lewis, treasurer. 

In 1823 the Xewburgh Society for Aiding- Missions was formed. The 
report said: "Its design is to be auxiliary to the cause of missions in 
general; its funds, at the disposal of a board of managers, are to be ap- 
propriated from time to time to such societies or other missionary objects 
as may seem to have the most pressing claim to assistance."' 

The Xewburgh Sabbath School Society was organized in 1816, and the 
following officers are found recorded, as chosen in 1823. sixteen years 
afterward: .Superintendents. Mrs. Agnes \'an \ leeck, Mrs. Mary G. 
Belknap, !Mrs. Harriet AI. Bate, Miss Joanna Schultz ; secretary, Miss 
Louisa Lewis ; treasurer. Miss Jane Carpenter. The secretary, in her 
report, stated that the school then consisted of more than 300 scholars, the 
average attendance being 200, and that there were thirty-two classes in- 
structed by forty-six teachers and assistants. She stated that the number 
of verses committed to memorv during the year was 21.440 and of divine 
songs 8,684. 

Eager reports a meeting of the Orange County Medical Society in 
Xewburgh in October, 1823, which invited the members of the Xewburgh 
Lyceum to attend. Medical and scientific essays were read by Drs. John 
M. Gough, Francis L. Beattie and .\rnell, other essays by George W. 
Benedict and Rev. James R. Wilson, and "the merits of each underwent 
an able discussion.'' 

LOC.VLITIES. 

Just outside the legal boundary line north of the city of Xewburi^h is 
the fashionable suburb of Balmville, named after a large Balm of Gilead 
tree, which is estimated to be one hundred and fifty or more years old, and 
nearly twenty-five feet in circumference. The population is large and 
wealthy, inhabiting charming country seats. Continuing northward about 
two miles is the village of Middlehope, formerly known as Middletown. 
It is the center <^f a prosperous fruit section where many varieties of fruit 
originated with men foremost in pomology. Xorth of this settlement is 
Cedar Hill Cemetery. The grounds are from the design of August Hcpp. 
and are under the control of the Cedar Hill Cemetery .Xssociation. which 
was organized in '-"^"o. mainl\ through efforts of Entxrh L"arter. Rose- 



346 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ton, four miles north of Newburgh, on the banks of the Hudson, was 
named after John C. Rose, who estabhshed extensive brick yards here in 
1883. Brick yards have muhipHed in this section, and destroyed the 
natural attractions of a once pretty cove. The Dans Kammer, a promon- 
tory just beyond, marks the northern extremity of Newburgh Bay. Hamp- 
ton, now known as Cedar Cliff Post-office, is a landing on the Hudson, 
adjoining the Ulster County boundary line. Savilton, formerly Rossville, 
is a small district eight miles northwest of Newburgh city, named from 
Alexander Ross. Gardnertown is a small settlement four miles northwest 
of the city, and was named from the old and numerous family of Gardners 
who settled there. 

Orange Lake, now a noted summer resort, was called by the early 
settlers Dutch Bennin Water, and later Machen's Pond, from Captain 
Machen, an engineer employed by Congress in 1777 in erecting fortifica- 
tions in the Highlands and stretching the huge obstructing chain across 
the Hudson. It was also called Big Pond as distinct from Little Pond 
in New Windsor. The lake covers about four hundred acres and is kept 
well fed by creeks and large springs. Numerous cottages dot its shores, 
and an amusement park is conducted under the management of the Or- 
ange County Traction Company. Extensive improvements were made in 
1907, including the erection of a large theatre and other buildings. 

Quassaick Creek is a fine stream entering the Hudson between New- 
burgh city and New Windsor, and is formed by the united waters of 
Orange Lake outlet and Fostertown and Gidney's Creeks. It has sup- 
plied many mills and factories with power. 

King's Hill is a high boundary elevation in the northwest part of the 
town afifording an extensive view in all directions. Bacon Hill is another, 
north from King's Hill, at the edge of the town. Limestone Hill is a 
ridge running north and south two miles northwest of the city. 

Fostertown Creek, one of the tributaries of Quassaick Creek, is a 
small stream which rises in Ulster County and drains a narrow vallev 
several miles in extent. Bushfield Creek also rises in LUster and is one 
of the streams which feed Orange Lake. 

EARLY INCIDENTS. 

Among the "remarkable incidents" of early times mentioned by Eager, 
are the following: In 1803 the formation of a Druid society, composed, 




Aymar van Buren. 



TOWN <)i- xi-:\\i;rK(;ii. 347 

it was said, wholly of deists, whose i^roccedings were secret. In Janu- 
ary. 1805, a son of Warren Scott, 14 years old, was torn in pieces by 
wolves in the west part of the town while feeding liis father's sheep. The 
wolves at this time also came down and killed sheep near the village of 
Newburgh. In 1816 the owners of the Newburgh ferry first used a 
horse IkuU. and on August i^^th of that year the boat Jason Rogers 
crossed the river with two horses attached to a coach and a wagon, sev- 
enteen chaises and horses, another horse and fifty passengers. In 1817 
(jovernment officers inspected ninety tons of cannon made by Mr. Town- 
send on Chamber's Creek, and all ])roved good. They were the first manu- 
factured in the State, and were of sterling ore from the town of Monroe. 
Xovember 24. 1824. the schooner Xcptuiic. on the way from New York 
t(^ Newburgh. was upset and sunk, and the most of her fiftv or more pas- 
sengers were drowned. She had forty or fifty tons of plaster on board. 
and the heavy wind shifted it. which caused the accident. 



34S THE COUNTY OF ORANGFi 

CHAPTER XXV. 
CITY OF NEWBURGH. 

NEWBURGH, the chief city of Orange County, with a population 
of nearly 27,000, is also the largest commercial city on the Hud- 
son between New York and Albany. It-is located on the side hill 
of a bay, 57 miles from the river's mouth, has a deep and spacious har- 
bor, with good docks, and its scenic views and contiguous territory are 
peculiarly attractive. The inviting bay and river are in front, and the 
mountains southward and westward have been characterized as "Nature's 
arm thrown lovingly about us." In the landward distance mountains are 
visible in several (Hrections from the upper town, p.n'l adjacent are fruit 
and dairy farms on undulating fields, with a ten-mile plain known as 
"Highland Terrace." A recent local pamphlet says of the City of New- 
burgh : "As a home-city there is little to be desired. It is metropol- 
itan and suburban. It has broad thoroughfares, good streets, and 
provision is now perfected for having $100,000 expended annually 
in new pavements. There are numerous lireathing spots. One of the 
most magnificent views obtainable anywhere in the Hudson Valley is 
from Downing Park, where from the observatory the city appears to be 
almost beneath your feet. The Hudson River presents an unobstructed 
view for miles, and a half dozen ranges of mountains appear to view. 
The Catskills at the north, Fishkill and the Beacons on the east, Storm 
King and Crow Nest on the south, Schunemunck at the southwest, and 
the Shawangunk range far to the west. At the north end of the city is 
LeRoy Place, one of the coziest and most inviting of the city's little 
parks. It is especially referred to as a resting place for those who find it 
convenient to take a walk to the famed 'Balm of Gilead' tree, one of the 
oldest monarchs of its class to be found for many miles around." 

The near suburban villages tributary to the city have a population of 
nearly 50.000, as follows: Fishkill and ^Nlatteawan, i mile. 13.016; Corn- 
wall. I mile. 4.258; Marlborough. 6 miles. 3,478; 3ililton 10 miles. 1,500; 
Walden, 10 miles. 5,939; Highland Falls. 10 miles. 4,519; Cold Spring, 
8 miles. 2,067; New Hamburgh. 10 miles, 500; Washingtonville. 10 miles. 
*i.ii8; New Windsor. 3 miles. 2,392; Newburgh Town. 3 miles. 4.246. 



CITY OF NFAVnURGH. 349 

The little hamlets in the vicinity jirobably have a pnpnlaiii pii 0(5.0):) 
inore. 

Tin-: KAKLIKST DA VS. 

The territory embraced in the town and city was a part of the lands pur- 
chasetl from the Indians by Govern(jr Dong^an in 1864. and conveyed by 
him to Captain John Evans in 1694. The conveying i)atent was annulle I 
in 1699. and the district was afterward conveyed in small tracts at ditifer- 
ent periods, of which ten were included in the precinct of Xcwburgh as it 
was constituted in 1762. These were: No. i, German patent, 2,190 aero, 
issued December 18, 1719, No. 2, Alexander Baird & Co., 6,000 acres ; Feb- 
ruary 28, 1719; No. 3, Jacobus Kip & Co., 7000 acres; October 17, 1720; 
No. 4, Ricard Bradley and William Jamison, 1,800 acres, May 17, 1729; 
No. 5, James Wallace, 2,000 acres, January 25, 1732; No. 6, liradley chil- 
dren, 817 acres, March 26, 1739; No. 7, Francis Harrison & Co., 5.600 
acres, July 10, 1714; No. 8, John Spratt & Co., 1,000 acres. April 12, 1728; 
No. 9, Melchior Gulch 300 acres, October 8, 1719; No. 10, Peter Johnson, 
300 acres, October 8, 1719. 

The original settlement was in 1709 by a party of Germans from the 
Palatinate — a strip of German territory along- the middle Rhine. In 1708 
Louis XI\' gave warning to the people of the Palatinate that it was to bt 
devastated in order to crip])le the enemies of France, and this caused a 
companv of twelve families and two bachelor.s — fift\-tlirce persons in all 
— to flee to London. Here Oueen Anne interested herself in their welfare, 
and sent them to New York, with a guaranty of 9 pence each for twelve 
months, and of a grant of land on which to settle. From New York they 
were moved in the spring to ''Quassaick Creek anrl Thau'-hammer."' Of the 
heads of families there were seven husbandmen, a minister, a stocking 
maker, a smidi. a carpenter and a cloth weaver. One of the bachelors \\ a- 
a clerk and the other a husbandman. They were Protestants and of "good 
character." as certified by officials in the villages where they had lived. 
Their promised land ])atent was not issued until 1719, wlien it granted 
to each of the different families from 100 to 300 acres, WMth 500 acres set 
apart for the support of the minister. The settlement was generallv 
called "The German Patent," but its official title was "The Glebe." 
The lands for each family extended from the Hudson River west one 
mile. No. i was bounded on the <outh l)y Oua'^saick Creek, and covered 
the present site of Newburgh. 



350 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The immigrants erected a church, cultivated portions of their lands and 
maintained their settlement several years. Then sales were made to new- 
comers, and there were changes in ownership and population. After twenty 
or thirty years the later Dutch and English comers were largely in the ma- 
jority, and in 1747 elected trustees of the Glebe, closed the church to the 
Lutheran minister, and in 1752 obtained from the governor and council 
a new charter whereby the revenues might be applied to the support of 
a minister of the Church of England, with the title of "Palatine Parish of 
Ouassaick" changed to "The Parish of Newburgh." At this time there 
were forty-three real estate lease holders in the settlement. Ruttenber char- 
acterizes as prominent among them the following: Alexander Colden, son 
of Lieutenant-Governor Colden; Duncan Alexander, brother of William 
Alexander, the Lord Sterling of the Revolution ; James Denton, son of 
Daniel Denton, the first historian of New York; Jonathan Hasbrouck. 
from the Huguenot settlement of New Paltz. Colden, Denton and Has- 
brouck erected grist mills, and in 1743 Colden obtained a charter for the 
Newburgh ferry. "The names of Hasbrouck and Colden have never been 
absent from the list -of inhabitants since 1750," says Ruttenber. 

The trustees elected in 1747 were Alexander Colden and Richard Al- 
bertson. When the first service was held after the Church of England 
was substituted, the Lutheran minister and his flock made public protest 
at the door, and afterward went away and had service in a private house. 
Tradition says that the Lutherans attempted a forcible entry, and there 
was a fight in which the church door was torn from its hinges and one 
Lutheran was killed. This was after the election of trustees in 1847, ^^id 
previous to the receipt of the new charter. 

The new trustees, Colden and Albertson, established a public landing, 
started agricultural fairs, took temporal charge of the church, erected 
a parsonage, a residence and school-house combined for the school- 
master, and did much other work which contributed to the growth of 
the settlement. 

In 1762 Newburgh was set ofif from the precinct of the Highlands and 
made a precinct by itself. In 1767 a petition was granted for licenses 
for more taverns, as being necessary "to accommodate the country peo- 
ple, travelers and passengers." In 1769 a petition asking for a charter of 
lands for the Newburgh mission, signed by missionary, vestrymen 
and wardens, was granted. In 1770 another petition to the governor 






'^^ 



clOO^i 



CITY OF NEWBURGH. 



55^ 



tor "a ro\al charier of incorporation of St. George's Cliurcir' was 
granted. 

The old patent of the Highlands, after serving its pnrpose 50 years, 
had given way in 1762 to the precincts of Xewburgh and New Windsor, 
the latter being constituted nearly as now, and the former embracing the 
towns of Marlborough and Plattekill in Ulster County as well as the 
present town and city of Newburgh. 

In 1776 the Glebe hamlet comprised about a score of houses, and 
three boats owned in town made trips between it and New York. 

TROfP-r.i-: Axn rf.\'oi.i;tiox. 



Passing to the events just preceding the War of the Revolution, when 
the bold and significant non-importation agreement was adopted bv the 
Continental Congress, and a pledge of association in its support was 
opened in every town and precinct, supervised by committees, Wolvert 
Acker was chairman of the committee for the precinct of Newburgh. 
When the signing was finished he made return of 195 signatures and 
names of thirty-nine who had refused to sign. The names of the signers 
follow : 

Xon-Iiiiportatioii Pledge S{i^)iers of I//6. 



Ricliard Albertson 
Stephen Albertson 
William Albertson 
Joseph Albertson 
Daniel Aldridge 
Isaac Brown, M.D. 
Isaac Brown, Jr. 
Joseph Broun 
Abel Belknap 
Isaac Belknap 
Isaac Belknap, Jr. 
Wm. Bowdish 
John Bccket 
Solomon Buckingham 
Richard Buckingham 
Benjamin Birdsall 
Daniel Birdsall 
James Burns 
Benj. Cofbn 
Caleb Coffin 
Wm. Collard 
Nathaniel Coleman 
Henry Cropsey 
Wm. Carskadden 



Caleb Chase 
Daniel Denton 
Daniel Denton, Jr! 
Nehemiah Denton 
Samuel Denton 
Nathaniel Denton 
Peter Donelly 
Benj. Darin- 
John Donaghey 
Isaac Demott 
Mugh I'erguson 
Wm. Ferguson 
Elnathan i^'ostcr 
Morris Flewwclling 
James Flewwelling 
Jonathan Hasbrouck 
Cornelius Hasbrouck 
Moses Higby, M.D. 
James Harris 
John Nathan Hutchins 
George Harding 
Thomas Ireland 
George Jackson 
W^m. Lawrence 



352 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Benjamin Lawrence Thomas Smith 

Aaron Linn Thaddeus Smith ' 

Solomon Lane Samuel Sands 

George Leonard Hugh Stevenson 

Silas Leonard Stephen Stephenson 

Robert Morrison, M.D. William Thurston 

John Morrel Burger Weigand 

Thomas Palmer Martin Weigand 

Ihomas Patterson Monson Ward 

Harmanus Rikeman Richard Ward 

Thomas Rhodes William Ward 

Albertson Smith- Timothy Wood 

Benjamin Smith Jeremiah Wool 

Henry Smith Charles Willett 

Leonard Smith John Wandel 
Leonard Smith, Jr. 

The lists of those who signed and those refusing to sign embraced all 
males over i6 years old. 

The "old town" was at this time a forlorn looking place, and the side 
hill was mostly covered by orchards. A tavern built in this year of 1776 
by Adolph De Grove, on the southwest corner of Water and Third 
streets became Lafayette's headquarters. 

When the war became a certainty the control of Hudson River naviga- 
tion became important, and to this end Forts Montgomery, Clinton and 
Constitution were built. Two out of every five of the male population 
became militiamen, were almost constantly in service, and levies en masse 
were frequent. In 1779 Washington established his headquarters at 
New Windsor in the William Ellison house, and here they remained until 
the movement which resulted in the siege of Yorktown in 1781. After 
its surrender his army returned to the Highlands, and Washington then 
made the Hasbrouck house in Nevvburgh his headquarters, retaining 
them as such until August, 1783. 

Before the beginning of hostilities in the Revolution two companies 
were organized in Newburgh for a regiment formed in the southern dis- 
trict of Ulster County, of which Jonathan Hasbrouck, of Newburgh, was 
colonel, and Arthur Smith anrl Samuel Clark captains of the companies. 
In the next December a regiment of minme men w?s organized, of which 
Thomas Palmer, of Newburgh, was the colonel. In the summer of 1776 
a convention directed the general committee to organize three companies 
(201 men) of rangers to guard against and fight Indians. Of one of 
these Isaac Belknap, of Newburgh. was captain. At this time the age:! 
and those who ordinarily would be regarded as exempts were pressed 



CITY OF NE\VI5lK(;il. 353 

into the service. In 1778 the i)e(»ple were asked lo form com|)anies to 
repel invasions and suppress insurrections, and a company of this kind 
was formed, with Samuel Edmonds as captain, h'igures show that the 
militia of Newburgh was not sleeping during the Revolution, for in 1776 
they were called out on alarms twenty-seven days, and between that tiinc 
and April, 1788, 305 days. Newburgh was made a general rendezvous for 
troops, and frecjuently the soldiers were billeted on the inhabitants. Al- 
though the precinct escajied direct devastation, many of the men were 
killed or taken prisoners in defense of the Highland forts. 

When the British sailed up the river in 1777, and burnt Kingston, after 
capturing the Highland forts, the Xewburgh women hid their valuables 
in the woods, nearly all the men having gone to the defense of the forts. 

While Washington's headquarters were at New Windsor his main 
army was in and near the Hudson River forts, and in 1782. after the 
surrender of Yorktown. was again encamped along the Hudson, number- 
ing about 8,000 men. Washington at Newburgh, meanwhile, during the 
progress of peace negotiations. ke]it careful watch of Sir Henry Clinton's 
movements. Many interesting >toric> have been told about Washington 
during his long stay at New Windsor and Newburgh. At Newburgh he 
battled with discontent, and even mutiny, in the army, and here he pro- 
claimed the cessation of hostilities. This was on April 19, 1783. eight 
years after the beginning of the war, when general rejoicing followed. 
The first battalion marched southward June 5th, and the last June 23d. 
On July I2th Washington went up the Huclson to Albany, where he was 
joined by Governor Clinton and a >mall jiarty. On August 17th he 
issued the last general orders from army headquarters, announcing his 
intention to depart and meet Congress at I'rinceton. and left W'est Point 
the next day. July 4. 1850, the ancient house that had been his head- 
(|uarters in Newburgh was dedicated as a monument of the events of the 
war. General Winfield Scott was present to raise the flag, and Judge 
Monell made an address. The buihling is owned by the State and con- 
trolled by trustees a])])ointed by the Governor. 

For some time after the war the Newburgh people were almost poverty- 
stricken. Their Continental moiuv was almost worthless: they lacked 
means for the cultivation of their lands, and business was at a standstill. 
in 1785 they petitioned the T>egislature for relief, giving as reasons the 
urplie< they had provided for the war. ilieir manv lo-^se^ can. '•el hv the 



354 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

war, their large personal service, and the depreciation of the paper cur- 
rency, all of which rendered it impossible for them to cultivate their 
farms or pay their just debts, while many families were reduced to want 
for the necessities of life. 

Soon, however, the vigorous population recuperated, was increased by 
newcomers, and the period of prolonged prosperity began in earnest. 
From the position of the lowest in 1780 the precinct passed to the fourth 
in 1790. with a population of 2,365, and in a quarter of a century to the 
first rank in population. 

LATER EARLY DAYS. 



The charter of 1752 of the Glebe was complied with down to 1793. 
From 1793 to 181 5 there was only a temporary church organization, and 
no regular minister. Then a legislative enactment was obtained dividing 
the income from the Glebe between the Newburgh Academy and such 
other schools as existed or might exist in the territory. It is remarkable 
that the early academy instituted by the Glebe served the community 
educationally for nearly a century. 

The "old town," situated on a plot opened by Cadwallader Golden be- 
fore 1730, was located between present Front street and Broadway, and 
named Newburgh. This was extended by Benjamin Smith in 1782, who 
laid out streets and lots from a part of his farm lying east of Montgomery 
street and between First and South streets. After the disbandment of 
the army in 1783 Newburgh's population increased somewhat rapidly by 
the settlement there of some of the soldiers of the dissolved army and of 
families who had fled from New York City when it was captured by the 
British. But up to 1790 it was a disjointed settlement, the three town- 
ship plots of which it was composed having no connection except through 
Libery street and a few cross-lot roads. None of the lateral streets inter- 
sected each other, and in 1790 other highway commissioners formally 
connected them. The general legislative act of 1788 changed the name 
"precinct" to "town." 

Newburgh quickly became the first shipping point of importance on 
the west bank of the Hudson north of New York, because of its fine 
harbor, and of being the natural outlet for the trade of a vast section of 
country previous to the advent of the canals and railroads. South of the 




4rf 




CITY OF XEWia'RGH. 355 

Highlands the Palisades and other mountain ranges were a barrier to easy 
access to the river. Therefore in the early days transportation became 
the most important business of Newburgh. The lumber business was 
especially heavy, and large quantities of ship timber, planks and staves 
were forwarded to New York. Shipbuilding was also carried on, and 
Xewburgh ships entered into the Liverpool and West Indies trade. Rut- 
tcnber mentions many mills that were erected in Xewburgh and vicinity 
after the war, and says: "Besides mills and hamlets there were many 
well-cultivated farms, and substantial dwellings which had suj)plantcd 
rude log cabins." 

The early millers and boatmen of Xewburgh kept goods of various 
kinds to sell to the farmers. The first regular store was opened by Benja- 
min and David Ijirdsall, and the second, immediately after the Revolution, 
by John McAuley. Hugh Walsh opened a store about the same time. 
The other principal merchants up to i8oi were Wm. Seymour, Leonard 
Carpenter. John Anderson, Cooper & Son, George Gardner, James Ham- 
ilton. James Burns, Robert Gourley, Robert Gardiner, George Monell, 
Robert W. Jones, Denniston Sc Abercombie, Wm. W. Sackett, Alexander 
Falls, John Shaw and John Brown. A considerable number of these 
were connected with the forwarding business, among them John Ander- 
son, John Anderson, Jr., Hugh Walsh, Benjamin Case. Jr., Jacob and 
Thomas Powell, Jacob and Leonard Carpenter and George Gardner. 
Trade on the river was conducted by sloops until 1830, when the first 
steamer, the Baltimore, was purchased and started on regular tri])s by 
Christopher Reeve. 

Before the war Great Britain would not allow the colonists to engage 
in much manufacturing, requiring them to import or supply themselves 
by domestic substitutes. Therefore, there was much spinning and weav- 
ing by wives and daughters, and making soap from refuse fats, and di])- 
ping for candles, while the farmer made his own sleds and carts and 
generallv constructed his own dwelling and outhouses. These practices 
were continued to some extent long after the war for economical reasons. 

Some of the first men to start things in Newburgh are here named: 

John Haines, hat manufacturer, 1795; Richard and Joseph Albertson, 
shoe making, before the Revolution ; Cooper, tailor, at the close of the 
war; Joseph Reeves, watchmaker, 1798, took up whip-making in 1804, 
and was followed in watch-making by George Gorden and Ebenezer 



356 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Ayres ; Hugh Spier, cabinet-maker and undertaker, 1798 ; Selah Reeve, 
earthenware manufacturer, 1799; James Patterson, tin plate worker and 
coppersmith, 1797; Mrs. DeGrove, baking, 1791, and succeeded by John 
and Joseph Hoffman; Peter Bannen, soap and candle making, 1804, pre- 
ceded by Abel Belknap; Matthew DuBois, tobacconist, 1799; James 
Ren wick distiller, 1790; John Cooper, father of the famous Peter Cooper, 
ale brewer, 1794; Benjamin Roe, saddle and harness maker, before 1800; 
Phineas Howell, tanner, before 1800; Sylvester Roe, painting and glaz- 
ing; 1804; Henry B. Carpenter, iron and brass foundry, 1821 ; Richard B. 
Phillips, brush manufacturer, 1831, preceded by Daniel Berrian ; Henry B. 
Ames, fancy and family soaps, 1852; stock company, with Hiram Bennett, 
president, cotton goods manufactory, 1844; George Gardner, Jason 
Rogers, William Seymour, Richard Hill, earliest ship builders, and Walter 
Burling, Daniel Bailey, W^m. Holmes, Samuel Wright, earliest ship car- 
penters; Drs. Isaac Brown and Robert Morrison, regular physicians in 
1776; Phineas Bowman, first lawyer, settled in Newburgh at close of 
Revolution, and his contemporary lawyers were Thomas Cooper. Solomon 
Slight and Jonathan Fisk ; Lucius Carey ; first newspaper, Newburgh 
Packet, lyys, bought by David Denniston, and name changed to Mirror ; 
E. W. Gray, first daily, Nezvs, 1856; Hezekiah Watkins, schoolmaster, 
1752; John Nathan, teacher during Revolution and founder of "Hutchin's 
Family Almanac" ; Rev. Jonathan Freeman and Silvenus Haight, private 
school, 1 80 1. 

When the second war with England came, Newburgh was paying 
nearly one-fourth of the taxes of the county. Again she was prominent 
in zeal for the national cause. A convention was held in which it was 
resolved to resist "the attacks of domestic enemies and the insolent aggres- 
sions of foreign powers." Local military companies were ordered on 
duty at Staten Island, and later Newburgh was made temporarily the 
rendezvous for grenadiers, light infantry and riflemen of the 34th Bri- 
gade. Its citizens celebrated Perry's victory on Lake Erie with enthusiasm. 
The embargo act detained Newburgh vessels, among others, in foreign 
ports, and Newburgh merchantmen were captured and confined in Dart- 
mour prison. 

Colden's first dock was built in 1730. Isaac Belknap sailed a sloop from 
Newburgh before the Revolution which made trips to the West Indies. 
William Harding, Richard Buckingham and Lewis Clark also sailed sloops 




Arthur ^ oung. 



CITY Ol" XKW r.LRl.Il. 357 

before the war, and later conveyed troops on them for the Revohitionists. 
As early as 1798 there were four lines of sloops from Newburgh. 

In iIk- "thirties Newburgh's river and land trade was very large. The 
streets were frequently blocked for hours with farmers' loaded wagons. 
The completion of the Erie canal diverted the most of this trade, and 
later the Delaware and Hudson canal cut off another source of wealth. 
Then the construction of the Erie Railroad from Goshen to i'iermont. 
and its subsequent extension in other directions, finished the old trans- 
portation business of Newburgh, and it has taken many years to bring 
about the present prosperity, with railroads extending from many direc- 
tions, large and varied manufactures, superior public institutions and 
other conditions to correspond. 

AITKR INCORPORATION. 

The village of Newburgh was incorporated March 25, 1800, by an Act 
of the Legislature, and in ^SFay seven trustees, three assessors, three 
fire wardens, a collector and a treasurer, w'ere elected. John Ander- 
son was chosen president of the board of trustees. In 1801, the New- 
burgh and Colchester turnpike was incorporated, with a capital of 
$125,000. "Both measures." says Ruttenber. "were largely instrumental 
in influencing the prosperity of the village." The latter. In oijening <% 
new route of travel westward, brought a trade which in the main han 
previously reached the Hudson by way of Xcw Windsor, as up to that 
time nearly all the wagon roads led to this place. The turnpike so re- 
versed conditions, by giving to the western part of Orange County and 
Sullivan County a better and shorter route of travel, that Newburgh 
came up and New Windsor went down, and the merchants of the latter 
place moved their stocks of goods to Newburgh. Other turnpikes fol- 
lowed, and the village grew rajjidly. From the close of the Revolutionary 
War to 1825 its population increased i.ioo in each decade, and its com- 
merce was proportionately extended. Connecting turnpikes stretched to 
Canandaigua Lake, and were traversed by lines of stage>^. and a steamer 
on Cayuga Lake facilitated travel. Subsequently connections with Buf- 
falo permitted a trip of sixty-five hours between that place and New York, 
and this was advertised as "the shortest and most expeditious route from 
the IIudMin River to the we>tern couiUrv." 



358 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

INTERESTING PUBLIC EVENTS. 

The city of Newburgh was incorporated in 1865. Of its patriotic 
celebrations two were of surpassing enthusiasm and interest. These were 
the Centennial celebration of 1876 and the Ceritennial celebrating the close 
of the Revolutionary War, of October 18, 1883. In the former there was 
a great nocturnal parade, and the noise and commotion were unprece- 
dented in Newburgh from cannon firing, engine whistling, fireworks, band 
playing, songs and shouts. At Washington's headquarters the procession 
paused awhile and sang, "My Country 'tis of Thee." 

The celebration of 1883 was less noisy, but more imposing. The me- 
morial monument or "Tower of Victory," at Washington's headquarters, 
had been completed at a cost of $67,000, and the event was of national 
and State as well as local significance. Congress had appropriated $25,000, 
the State Legislature $15,000, the Common Council of Newburgh $7,500, 
and the citizens of Newburgh had subscribed $5,000. Many thousands of 
people came from far and near on railroads, steamboats and wagons. 
The river front was lined with steamers. The procession of the military, 
firemen, and societies was three miles long, and included quite forty brass 
bands and a score of drum corps. It was headed by a company of New 
York City police, and within it rode Peter Ward, mayor of Newburgh ; 
Joel T. Headley, president of the Washington Headquarters Commis- 
sion; Thomas Bayard, president of the day; William M. Evarts, orator, 
and William Bruce, poet. The inscription on the monument gives the 
sufficient reason for the parade and accompanying ceremonies : 

"This monument was erected under the authority of the Congress of 
the United States and the State of New York, in commemoration of the 
disbandment under proclamation of the Continental Congress of October 
18, 1783, of the armies by whose patriotic and military virtue our national 
independence and sovereignty were established." 

Another noteworthy celebration was the unveiling of the statute of 
General George Clinton, October 6, 1896. The exercises consisted of a 
military and civic parade. The presentation address was delivered by 
Rev. William K. Hall, D.D. and Mayor Odell, in behalf of the city, made 
the address of acceptance. The statue stands in Clinton Gore, at the junc- 
tion of Water and Golden Streets. It shows General Clinton resting on 
his sword, which he holds in his right hand. It was modeled by the late 




George T. Barnes. 



CITY or NEWBURGH. 359 

eminent sculptor. Henry K. lirown, and his ne])lie\v, Mr. liusli-llrown. 
had tlie statue cast and tlie pedestal carved. The cost to the people of 
Xe\vl)ur,q;h was only $3,000. raised by subscriptions undertaken by the 
local Historical Society, and finished by Mayor Odell. Upon the granite 
pedestal is this inscription : 

GEORGE CLINTON 
Member of Continental Coui^^ress. ^77S-^777- Bri<^adier-(ieneral 
Continental Army. 1777. Governor of the State of A'cti' York. 
I777-I795' 1801-1804. J'iee-President of the United States, 
1804- 181 2. Cara Patria Carioe Libertas. 

The Newburgh Municipal Centennial was fittingly observed Ma\' y, 
1900. The parade, in which about twenty-eight hundred persons took 
part, marched through the city's principal thoroughfares, after which the 
l)eoi)le assembled at Washington's Headquarters, and Mayor Wilson 
called the gathering to order. The Rev. W. K. Hall. D.l)., eloquently 
reviewed the events of a century in this village and city, r.enediction was 
pronounced by Rev. Father Salley. 

Another event of unusual interest was the visit of Lafayette, in 1824, 
to Newburgh. the place of his headquarters iii the RcvnUilion. He was 
given a great reception, h'rancis Crawford, j^resident of the village, 
presented him to the corporation in a brief address, and he was afterwards 
received with Masonic honors by Hiram Lodge. I-^. & A. M.. wlure \v: 
replied eloquently to an address by Rev. Dr. John I'rown. Ik- was ban- 
(jueted at the Crawford Hotel, with about 100 citizens at the table. 

Newburgh's growth has been steady and healthy in recent year^. in 
consequence of civic enterprise and belter knowle'.ge of the advantages 
and attractions of her location. Her compact l)uildings. mostlv of brick, 
her charming suburbs, with fine country seats, the good and delightful 
roads extending into the country for carriage drives and automobiles, her 
excellent harbor and easy access to the Metropolis by rail and steamer, 
her good schools and churches and her busy manufactories, are entice- 
ments which are drawing many new residents. Apart from its popula- 
tion it is the centre of trade for many thousands of people. 



36o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

MANUFACTURES. 

The following is a partial list of leading industries: 

Newburgh Bleachery, bleachers and finishers of fine cotton fabrics; 
Sweet, Orr & Co., overalls and workingmen's garments; Coldwell Lawn 
Mower Co. ; Coldwell-Wilcox Co., iron founders and machinists ; T. S. 
Marvel & Co., iron shipbuilding and engineering works ; Newburgh Steam 
Boiler Works; h^abrikoid Company, imitation leathers; Newburgh Ice 
Machine and Engine Co. ; Newburgh Lumber Co. ; Newburgh Planing 
Mill Co. ; Belknap & McCann, soap ; Lackey Manufacturing Co., lace cur- 
tains; Harrison & Gore Silk Co.; Hudson River Woolen Mills; Staples 
& Hanford, wire goods; Newburgh Reed Co., reed chairs; Stroock Plush 
Co. ; Stroock Felt Co. ; Little Falls Paper Co. ; Granite City Soap Co. ; 
Newburgh Steam Mills, cotton goods ; John Turl's Sons, iron works ; 
Cleveland & Whitehill, overalls ; Ferry, Weber & Co., hats ; Abendroth 
& Root, spiral pipe, etc., automobiles ; Muchattoes Lake Ice Co. ; Higgin- 
son Manufacturing Co., cement; Newburgh Light, Heat & Power Co.; 
Pennsylvania Coal Co. 

Of the industries which have been listed, some should be more fully no- 
ticed. The Newburgh Ice Machine and Engine Company was known at 
the time of its establishment, in 1824, as the Newburgh Steam Engine 
Works. The present company was organized in 1890 with a capital of 
$500,000 to manufacture Whitehill-Corliss engines and ice-making and 
refrigerating machines. Extensive shops were completed that year, to 
which additions have recently been made. Mr. Edgar Penney is vice- 
president and general manager. 

The Muchattoes Lake Ice Company's business was started in the winter 
of 1859-1860 by James R. Dickson, and was bought in 1863 by Benjamin 
B. Odell, when he organized the company named. The officers are: B. B. 
Odell. president; B. B. Odell. Jr.. secretary and treasurer; H. B. Odell, 
superintendent. 

Sweet, Orr & Co. are the pioneers and most extensive manufacturers 
in the country of overalls and other workingmen's garments. In 1876 
their weekly product was about a thousand dozen pairs at their Wap- 
pinger's Falls factory, where they kept 250 employees busy. Seeking in- 
creased quarters they started another factory in Newburgh in 1880. The 
factory has a frontage of 150 feet on Broadway and 275 feet on Concord 



CITY OF \E\\"l'.rR(;H. 361 

street, lu 1882 they opened a factory in Chicago, and in i<po another 
at JoHet, 111. Sixty traveling salesmen cover the entire United States 
with their product. Mr. Clayton E. Sweet, head of this concern, resides 
in Newburgh. 

To Ca])lain Thomas S. Mar\el is due the success of the immense ship- 
yard of the T. S. Marvel Shiphuilding Company. Soon after ilie failure of 
Ward. Stanton & Co., Captain Marvel, who had been their su])erinten- 
dent, began business on his own account. The shipyard has been en- 
larged from time to time, ar.d building after building erected for 
their l)usiness. Over 200 men are employed in the building and 
repairing of iron and wooden steamboats and other water craft. Among 
their notable products are the steamers Homer Raiiisiirll. Hcndrk'k 
tiudso)i. numerous ferrybt)ats, and fireboats for the Xew \'ork l-'ire De- 
partment. 

The Higginson Manufacturing Company have a very extensive plant 
for the production of plaster, g}'psum. etc., with steamers :ind barges tc 
trajisport it to Xew York and other points. The business was begun by 
William R. Drown in 1868. Mr. Henry C. Higginson has been proprietor 
of the plant for many years. 

The Xewburgh lUeachery is owned and managed by Joseph Chadwick & 
Sons. It is one of the largest and best equipped manufactories of its 
kind. The Chad wicks in 1871 purchased the present site, and combined 
with it a factory which they owned in Rutherford, X. J., concentrating 
their whole business in the Xewburgh establishment. They employ about 
300 hands in bleaching and finishing variotis kinds of cotton goods. 

The Fabrikoid Coni])any"s industry was moved to Xewburgh in k^j. 
The plant covers about fifteen acres, and consists of twenty-eight build- 
ings. The product is ciiietly an imitation leather and the manufactory has 
a capacity of over 6.000 yarrls a day. ^\t. John Aspinwall is president, and 
Mr. George H. May, secretary and treasurer. 

Coldwell Lawn Mower Company, manufacturers of hand, horse and 
motor lawn mowers, is the largest concern in the world devoted exclu- 
sivelv to the production of these machines. The firm is compo.sed of 
William H. Coldwell. president and general manager; \\. C. Ross, 
treasurer; H. T. Coldwell, assistant treasurer, and .\. W. Mapes. sec- 
retary, ^fr. Thomas Coldwell. the parent of this industry, organized the 
company in 1891. and the plant was built on the most modern principles. 



^()2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Their annual output, shipped to all parts of ihe globe, exceeds one hun- 
dred thousand mowers, which is over one-fifth of the entire production in 
the country. 

H. Powell Ramsdell, of Newburgh, is the proprietor of the Arlington 
Paper Mill at Salisbury's Mills, eight miles southwest of the city on 
Murderer's Creek and the Newburgh branch of the Erie. The mill is the 
principal industrial element of the hamlet. It is picturesquely situated 
on the edge of a rocky gorge. The oldest part of the mill was built about 
1840, by Isaac K. Oakley. It forms but a small part of the present plant. 
the main building of which is 480 feet long and from one to three stories 
high, with capacity for the employment of 150 hands, and tlie production 
of over 24,000 pounds of paper daily. It is a progressive institution an 1 
up to date in its machinery and other equipment. There are several de- 
tached buildings in addition to a connected series of brick and stone l)uil(l- 
ings, and twenty or more cottages for the families of the employees. The 
Arlington Mill manufactures the best grades of book paper and French 
folios, white and colored. These go to the great publishing houses of 
New York and other American cities, and some of them to Englan 1 anl 
even to Australia. 

EXTENSIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS. 

Washington Heights, formerly the homestead of Captain Henry Robin- 
son — a tract of nearly 100 acres in the southern part of the city — was made 
a valuable addition to the resident portion of the city by its purchase from 
the heirs, division into streets and lots and their improvements started 
twenty years ago. The part of the plateau east of Lander street, about 
forty acres, was purchased by tienry T. McConn, and he arranged with 
Colonel Charles H. Weygant for its development. The macadam streets 
are broad and straight, the houses must set twelve feet back from the side- 
walk, which is lined with shade trees. A little later, in October, 1887, 
William D. and Joseph M. Dickey purchased the part of the Robinson 
farm west of Lander street, forty-two acres, and there inaugurated similar 
improvements. Many lots have been sold and houses erected on both plots. 

The Newburgh Street Railway Company obtained a franchise earlv in 
1886 to build a surface road from a point near the western end of the 
city to the Union depot, and then another to extend the line from the 



/ 



H^^ 



j^9 ^SP 






CITY OF XEWBURGH. 363 

corner of Water and Third streets along Water street to near the north- 
erly line of the city. On December 23d, of the same year, the road was for- 
nialK opened between West Xewburgh and the Inioii depot. Later the 
road was extended to Orange Lake, and the name was changed to the 
( )range Comity Traction Company. In iyo6 it was purchased by Ex- 
( Governor Odell, and desirable improvements in equipment were made. 

On recommendation of Mayor Odell, in his annual message of 1887, 
the people voted $30,000 for the purchase of additional lands to the 
former Smith estate, owned by the city, to be improved and laid out into 
tlif beautiful and sightly Downing Park, in honor of Andrew J. Downing. 

Of buildings for public use the Newburgh Academy of Music is con- 
spicuous. It was projected in 1886 by J. 1*. .Andrews and E. S. Turner, 
and the construction was commenced in the spring of 1887. Itjias a 
frontage on Broadway of 85 feet ar.d a depth of 140 feet. The audi- 
torium is 80 feet long by 45 feet deL]j, 40 fe-.^t high, and will seat 1.300 
people. The stage is 80 by 35 feet, and there are 12 dressing rooms, 2 
balconies and 4 boxes. In all its appointments it is thoroughly modern. 

( )f school buildings two deserve particular notice. The Free Academy 
was erected in 1885-1886, and cost $67,000. The material is brick with 
stone trimmings. It is 112 by 68 feet, and three stories high, with base- 
ment. It has an assembly room 88 by 64 feet, which will seat 700 persoTi>, 
and 12 class rooms each 31^ by 23 feet. There are 21 rooms in all. 
\\'ithout and within it is a good specimen of school architecture. Anoilier 
i- the Grammar School building, erected in 1891 at a co.st of $30,000. 
This is 74 by 76 feet, with eight class rooms 28 by 23 feet each, aw] each 
containing desks for 40 ])U])ils. The as'-embly rccm is in the third story. 

Another noteworthy building is that of the Y. ]\I. C. A., constructed in 
1882- 1883. and costing $24,000. It is 31 by jj feet, three stories high, 
and has a seating caj)acity in its assemblv room for 300 persons. 

In 1896-1897 a handsome Government building was erected. Congress 
having appropriated $100,000 for thi> purpose, and this has since been 
the home of the post-office, the business of which has already almost out- 
grown it. 

The water with which Xewburgh is supplied is Irawn from W'a^hing- 
t(in Lake, three and a third 'miles from the Hudson and 2J() feet ai)ove 
it. The lake is fed by internal s|)rings and an artificial channel with 
.Silver stream. Chemical analysis has siiown that this water is so pure 



364 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

that it needs no filtering, and it is agreeably palatable, without any min- 
eral flavors. It has been healthy Newburgh's drinking water for more 
than fifty years. The lake's area is about 140 acres, and it has a storage 
capacity of 300,000,000 gallons. Newburgh is now so thoroughly piped 
that the water is universally accessible to its citizens, and is an invaluable 
protection against fire as well as promoter of cleanliness, health and hap- 
piness. 

PROTECTION AND EDUCATION. 

Newburgh has been remarkably free from crime, which is in part due 
to the character of its citizens and in part to its uniformly excellent police 
force, which now consists of one marshal, two sergeants, two rounds- 
men and fifteen patrolmen. 

The Volunteer Fire Department of Newburgh is one of the oldest in 
the State, and also one of the most efficient. Therefore there have been 
feW' very damaging fires, and the insurance rates are low. From its 
organization, over a hundred years ago, until now, it has had on its 
records of membership some of the leading business and professional men 
in the community, and they have promptly responded to the call for ser- 
vice when their service was required. 

The department was started, by authority of an act of Legislature, 
in the spring of 1 797. This was three years before the village was in- 
corporated, and the five trustees which the act required to be elected an- 
nually for controlling managers were the first form of government in the 
village. Their power was transferred to the village trustees by the incor- 
porating act. There were at first a suction engine and a bucket brigade to 
keep it supplied with water. In 1805 a company of "bagmen" was formed, 
whose duty it was to take charge of goods. The first engine house was 
erected about the same time, and a record of the two engine companies 
of 1806 furnishes the following names: 

No. I. — William L Smith, Enoch E. Tilton, Walter Burling, Henry 
Tudor. Ward M. Gazlay, Gilbert N. Clement, Minard Harris, John Cars- 
kaden. Caleb Sutton. Georfre E. Hulse. John Coleman, John Hoagland, 
William Adee, Andrew Preston, Nicholns Wright, John Forsyth, Walter 
Case. 

No. 2. — John Harris, Jonathan Fisk, John Anderson, Jr.. Leonard Car- 
penter. Selah Reeve, James Hamilton, Samuel L Gregory, William 




John Dales. 



CITY nv XRWIHKCll. 365 

Gardiner. Xatlianiel llurlinj;. Solomon Slcij^dit. Jonathan Carter, iliram 
Welkr. Samuel Wriy^hi. Hug-li Spier. Thomas Powell, Cornelius DeWitt, 
Joseph Hoftman. Cadwallader Roe, Daniel N-ven. Jr., Benoni H Howell, 
Sylvanus Jessup, Josej)!! Reeve, John Richardson. 

The interesting history of the department from its interesting begin- 
nings cannot be followed here. Coming down to the present time its 
heads consist of a chief engineer .-nul two assistant engineers, the ft^rc- 
man and assistant foreman of the various companies, and the trustees 
of the I-'ire Department fund. The n:ni.es oi the companies are: High- 
land Steamer Co. Xo. 3. Washington Steamer Co. Xo. 4. Eirewster Hook 
and Ladder Co. Xo. i, Ringgold Hose Co. Xo. r, Columbian Hose Co. 
Xo. J. C. 'SI. Leonard Steamer Co. Xo. 2. Chapman .Steamer Co. Xo. i, 
Law>on Hose Co. Xo. 5. Washington Heights Chemical Engine Co. Xo. 3. 

I he C'ty is divided into five fire districts, and thirty-two alarm boxes 
coiinect with the engine houses. 

Xewburgh is essentially progressive and modern in its e iucational 
svsteni. now made free, from the primary to the end of the academic 
course. Its Board of Education consists of nine members. It has seven 
public school buildings and one public library building. Other officers be- 
sides th.e board, are its president, vice-president, clerk, who is alsc 
su])erintendent, librarian, counsel and attendance officer. There arc 
also three Glebe trustees and three Glebe auditors. The courses of 
studv are similar to those in other city schools, and the graduate from 
the I'ree Academy may be prepared to enter one of the leading colleges, 
while the Manual Training School is a jjhysical safeguard as well as a 
means for harmonious muscular development. Vor reading helps a])art 
from text-books the good library of nearly 35.000 volumes is an opening 
into general literature. 

The reason for the Glebe trustees and auditors referred to dates back 
to ancient conditions which have been luemioneil. The act to amend the 
charter of the Glebe passed by the Legislature in 1803, directed that $200 
should be paid annually to the trustees of the academy, and that the 
remainder of the money from the Glebe income should be paid to the 
other schools on the Glebe lands, as the inhabitants should direct. It was 
applied to the juvenile school which was established in the old Lutheran 
church in iSo<). the last terudur .-f which was John L. l.von, who taught 
from 1S43 tf) 1H45, when the school was removed to the academy. In 



366 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1849. after the Clinton street school building was erected and became 
officially known as the (ilebe school, it received the revenues of the Glebe 
above the sum required by law to be paid to the academy. The High 
school was incorporated in 1829, and opened the next year. The number 
of pupils registered in this 185 1-1852 was 348, and the number in the 
Glebe school about 120. During the first year of the new order of things, 
provided for in the act of 1852, the number of pupils was doubled. 

Besides the present public schools there are several parish and private 
schools, the former being under the care of the Roman Catholic Church. 
Of these St. Mary's Academy, founded in 1883, has become very promi- 
nent and useful. 

The library, with its 35,000 volumes, is free to the people of New- 
burgh, and the building includes a teachers' reading room supplied with 
books adapted to the professional needs of the teachers, and may also be 
used by citizens and strangers for study and literary work. The library 
was started in 1852, and is among the oldest of the free circulating 
libraries. Previous to 1850 there were but four in the State, ten in the 
New England States, six besides these in the United States, and none 
in Great Britain, and but one of the libraries then organized has as many 
books or as large a circulation as the Newburgh library. In September, 
1852, the Board of Education resolved that all the school libraries in the 
village should be consolidated and placed together in the academy room, 
then ready to receive them, and William N. Reid, first principal of the 
academy under the new system, was appointed librarian. There were 
924 volumes from the high school, yyj from the Glebe and 418 from 
the academy. In 1862 the books of the Mechanics' Library Association 
were transferred to the Board of Education, which added 2,801 volumes 
to the library. Other donations and the purchases have brought the 
library to its present valuable condition in the number and quality of its 
books. The fine building which now contains them was completed in 1877 

CHURCHES. 

Of Newburgh's churches the oldest is the First Presbyterian, whose 
legal existence began a few months after the close of the Revolutionary 
War, although its informal existence had started a score of years before, 
and been kept up in an irregular and feeble way. The formal organiza- 




Thomas Coldwell. 



CITY OI- XEWr.l'RGH. • 367 

tioii as a Presbyterian society under the laws of the Slate t<jok place 
July 12, 1884, with these trustees: Adolph L)e^rf)ve, Daniel Hudson. 
Thomas 1 'aimer. Joseph Coleman, Isaac Belknap. The first stated supplv 
was Rev. John Close, who served from 1785 to 1796. His successor was 
Rev. Isaac Lewis, who continued until 1800 and was followed by Rev. 
John F'reeman. and Mr. Freeman by Rev. Eleazer Burnet. Then came 
the long- and very successful pastoiate of Rev. John Johnston, which 
lasted from July 5, 1807, until his death, August 23, 1855. Nearly a 
thousand n;embers were added to the church roll during his ministry. 

The congregation of the Firsfl Associate Reformed Church was formed 
in 1798, and the society was legally incorporated l^'cbruary 7. 1803. The 
first pastor, Rev. Robert Kerr, was installed April 6, 1799. The first 
trustees were : Derick Amerman, Hugh Walsh, Daniel Xiven, Robert 
Gourley, Robert Boyd, John Brown, Isaac Belknap, Jr., John Coulter 
and Robert W. Jones. The ruling elders were John Currie, Samuel 
Belknap, Hugh Speir and John Shaw. 

The First Reformed Presbyterian Church was planted in Xewburgh In- 
several families of the Covenanter faith in 1793, who held services in 
their homes on Sundays, and, with others, organized a Covenanter so- 
ciety in 1802. This became a branch of the Coldenham congregation, and 
the connection was continued until 1824, when it separated, and James 
Clark, Samuel Wright and John Lawson were chosen elders and John 
Crawford, deacon. 

Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in i8o8. when 
Rev. Samuel Fowler became the first pastor. 

St. George's Episcopal Church has been elsewhere referred to. in the 
early history of Newburgh. The j^arish was reincorporated, after a long 
period of adversity, in 1805, and the minister who more than any one 
else built it up afterward in the early years of the nineteentli century was 
Rev. John Brown. He became its regular rector in the fall of 1815. 

The African M. E. Church was organized in 1827, by Rev George 
Matthews. 

A Baptist Church was organized in 1821. and after a feeble existence, 
ending in dissolution in 1828. was formally reorganized in December. 

1834- 

Of the later churches the organizations were as follows: 

American Reformed Church. Se])teml)er 24. 1835; St. Patrirh's Roman 



368 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CotlioUc Cluirch. 1838; Union Churchy July 13, 1837; Sliiioh Baf^tist 
ChnrcJi, 1848; St. John's M. E. Church, ]\Iay 2;^, 1852; IVcstniinstcr 
Reformed Presbyterian Churchy November 12, 1854; Calvary Presby- 
terian Church, September i, 1856; First United Presbyterian Church, 
December 6, 1859; Congregation Beth Jacob, about i860; St. Paul's 
Protestant Episcopal Church, May, i860; Grace M. E. Church, April 25, 
1868; Church of our Father (Unitarian), 1855; St. Mary's Roman 
Catholic Church, May 19, 1875; Church of the Corner Stone (Reformed 
Episcopal), December 2, 1873; German Ez'angelical Lutheran Church, 
spring of 1876; Church of the Good Shepard (Episcopal), June, 1871 ; 
First Congregational Church, January 3, 1889. 

OTHER HELPFUL ORGANIZATIONS. 

A Young Men's Christian Association of Newburgh was organized 
September 17, 1858, and the next week officers were elected. The time of 
organization was less than six years after the Y. M. C. A. movement 
started. The association dissolved about 1861, and after the lapse of 
seven years the ijresent association was organized. It did not have a 
vigorous existence for several years, and was reorganizeci in January, 
1879. A few months later General Secretary J. T. Browne came to New- 
burgh and put new life into it, and it has been prosperous and progressive 
since. Its president, E. S. Tanner, was largely instrumental in raising 
the money for the new building, first occupied in 1883, and costing 
$17,000. 

At a public meeting held April 24, 1888, after an address by the na- 
tional secretary, Miss Nettie Dunn, Newburgh's Young Women's Chris- 
tian .\ssociation was organized, and 105 members enrolled. The elected 
officers were : President, Mrs. Susan McMasters ; vice-presidents, Mrs. 
Isaac Garrison, Miss Mary E. Gouldy and Mrs. Charles S. Jenkins ; re- 
cording secretary. Miss Augusta Lester; treasurer. Mrs. M. C. Belknap. 
The association has been prosperous and useful. 

St. Luke's Home and Hospital was incorporated in 1876. Its object 
is to provide for the care and medical treatment of the sick and disabled, 
and also a home for aged women. It has a training school for nurses, 
established in 1893, and a medical board of nearly a score of physicians 
and specialists. 




Valentine Kohl. 



CITY OF NEWBURGH. 369 

There are two institutions under the eare of Alms House Commis- 
sioners — the City and Town Home and Children's Home. The former is 
on a farm in the southwestern corner of the city, and the latter is a 
building in High Street. These are city benefactions, well managed and 
helpful to the aged and orphaned. 

An office and employment bureau was organized in 1875, and re- 
organized in 1886. It is primarily an organization to help the poor to 
help themselves. Members pay $5 annually and agree to abstain from 
indiscriminate almsgiving. The society is otherwise supported by vol- 
untary contributions. 

The Woman's Christian Temperance Union and Young Women's 
Christian Temperance Union labor to teach the boys and younger men 
the principles of temperance and morality, and have restrained and re- 
formed many of them. 

There arc two military companies in Newburgh — the Fifth Sejiaratc 
and Tenth Separate Companies, originating in the Seventeenth Battalion, 
which was organized in 1878. Lieutenant Colonel F. O. Ilayt. com- 
manding. January 11. 1882. Companies B, C and D were mustered out 
and Company A, Captain James T. Chase, continued as Fifth Separate 
Company, and Company E. Captain James M. Dickey, continued as 
Tenth Separate Company. 

The Loflges of the Independent Order of O Id Fellows arc .\cme No. 
469. Bismarck Xo. 420; Highland Xo. 65. ati 1 Mount ( )live Fncampment 
No. 65. 

The Elks have Lodge Xo. 247. B. P. O. E. 

The drand Army of the Republic is represented in Xewl)urgh b\ FIlis 
Post Xo. 52. and l'\illerton Post Xo. =,S:f). The Son^ of X'eteran'S have 
A. S. Cassedy Post Xo. 18. 

The Knights of Pythias have .Storm King Lodge Xo. 1 i. Olive Branch 
Lodge Xo. 133, Endowment Rank .Section Xo. 2oC\ and Charles T. Good- 
rich Division No. 25. L'niform Rank. 

The Knights of Honor have Hudson River Lodge Xo. 1218. 
The .Ancient Order of Foresters has Court Xewburgh Xo. y2^<^ and 
Court Pride of the Fludson No. 7718. 

The Improved Order of Red Men has Muchattoes Tribe X^o. 54, 
and Orange Council Xo. 50, De.grce of Pocahontas. 

Of tenii)erance societies- there are Orange Council Xo. 18^1. Royal 



370 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Templars of l^mporance. }*rohibition x-Vlliance, Junior I'rohibition Club, 
St. George's Company No. 62, Knights of Temperance, St. Paul's Com- 
ijanv No. 62. Mission Lodge No. 639 I. O. of G. T., Newburgh Lodge 
No. 2S2 ]. (). of G. T., and Victory Lodge L O. of G. T. 

Among the many other societies are United Friends, Sons of St. 
George, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Royal Arcanum, Order of United 
American Mechanics, Sexennial League, Knights and Ladies of the 
Golden Star, Knights of Honor, Orange Men, several Catholic societies, 
labor and trade unions, Newburgh Bible Society, Historical Society of 
Newburgh Bay and the Highlands, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty 
to Animals, Society for Instruction in First Aid to the Injured, and Horse 
Thief Detecting Society. 

; FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. 

Newburgh has solid financial institutions. Highland Bank was char- 
tered April 26, 1834, with a capital of $200,000. In January, 1865, the 
capital was increased to $350,000, and the following April was reorgan- 
ized as a National Bank with a capital of $450,000, which was reduced 
to $300,000 in 1888. The first president was Gilbert O. Fowler. 

Quassaick National Bank was organized March 31, 1852, and began 
husiness with a capital of $130,000. The first president was E. W. 
Farrington, and the first cashier Jonathan N. Weed. In June of the 
3^ear of organization the capital stock was increased to $200,000, and in 
June of 1853 to $300,000. In 1895 ^^- Weed was chosen president. 

The National Bank of Newburgh is the successor of tlie Bank of New- 
burgh, incorporated March 22, 181 1. The capital of the first bank was 
$120,000. The first president was Isaac Belknap, Jr., and the first 
cashier was John S. Hunn. In February, 1820, a branch bank was opened 
at Ithaca and continued till 1830, when its charter expired. The Bank of 
Newburgh was then reorganized under the Safety Fund law with a cap- 
ital of $140,000. In 1 85 1 it was again reorganized under the general 
banking law with a capital of $200,000, which was increased the next 
year to $300,000. July 3, 1864, the bank divided its capital and 60 pei 
cent, profits among its stockholders, and closed business, and two days 
afterward the National Bank of Newburgh more than took its place m the 
business community, with the large capital of $800,000, the stock of which 



CITY OF XE\vj;rk(,ii. 371 

\va> iiroiiiptly Uikcii. June 3, i8yo. the stockholders voted to reduce the 
capital to $400,000. and the additional $400,000 with 40 per ceiu. profits 
was divided among- them. The bank has continued to prosper. 

The Xewburgh Savings Hank was chartered April 13, 1852, and was 
opened January i. 1853. Its present building- was completed in 1868, 
and cost $115,527. It has been a heljjful uistitution to the people of 
Xcwljurgh and vicinity. Its tirst president was R()l)ert L. Case. Ir>scph 
Chadwick is now- its president. 

The Columbu.s Trust Compan\ began to do business March i, 18(^3. at 
Xo. S2 Broadway, with a capital st(jck of $100,000 divided among 144 
^shareholders. Semi-annual di\idends of 3 ])er cent, have been regailarly 
])aid since 1895. ^" i^joi the directors decided to purchase Xo. 78 Broad- 
way for a banking h.ouse. The builduig- was remorleled. and .April 20. 190J, 
the company moved to its j^resent quarters. This company has prospered 
l>eyond the reasonable expectations of its friends. The statement of De- 
cember 31, 1893, showed $117,249.17 on deposit, anrl $20,238.36 surplii- 
and undivided jirofits. June 29, 1907, deposits amounted to $2,941,587.13 
and sur]:)lus and uiidivided ])rotits to $121,527.26. The total riuml)er of 
accounts is 5,300. The present officers are: Joseph \'an Cleft, ])residenl ; 
David \. .Morrison, first vice-president; Charles K. Bidl, second vice- 
president; Henry M. Leonard, treasm-er ; Barcla\ \ an Cleft, secretary; 
Walter C. Anthony, counsel. 

The lioard of Trade was organized I-^ebruar}- 22, 1882, Mayor .\. S. 
Cassedy presiding at the meeting. Daniel S. Waring was chosen jjrc'-i- 
de'.it and the other officers were: \'ice-presidents. William B. Brockaw 
and John Schoonmaker ; treasurer. Jonathan .\. Weed. This organiza- 
tion hel])erl in many ways to advance the city's interests. It was suc- 
ceeded by the Business Men's Association, organized ( )ctol)er 16. 
1900, with llu- foUow'ing officers: Samuel \". .Schoonmaker. president; 
James Chadwick, W. C. Belkna]:). Hiram 1!. ( )dell. vice-j)residents ; John 
F. Tucker, secretary: H. .\. Bartlett, treasurer. It was incor])oralcd 
March 30, i(,'04. .Among the larger ])lants it has secured for Xewlnirgh 
nir'y be menti-med ( \()0\ ) the .\bendroth & Root Co.. of r)rooklyn. man- 
ufacturers of spiral pipe, automoliiles. etc.: { \*)0\-i(ro2) the I'abrikoid 
Co.. tormerI\- doing business in Xew |erse\-. which ]nirchased the property 
known a> Haigh ^^ills at West Xewburgh. Their products arc shipped 
to all ])art^ of the world: ( i<)03 ) William C". Cregg Co., of Mimicapolis. 



y/2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Minn., manufacturers of sugar plantation machinery. William Johnston 
McKay was chosen president of the association in 1907. This organization 
is in charge of Newburgh's portion of the Ter-Centenary celebration of 
the discovery of the Hudson River, and has already arranged for special 
exercises, September 25, 26 and 2^, 1909. 

TRANSPORTATION AVENUES. 

The transportation facilities of Newburgh are almost unsurpassed. 

In front is its fine harbor, bay and river, with steamship lines up 
and down and across. These lines are a restraint upon the tendencies of 
the railroads towards high freight rates. The river trade is large and 
within a few miles of Newburgh are about fifteen village ports which are 
more or less tributary to it. The local traffic of the Hudson is mostly by 
lines of steamers, some of which carry both freight and passengers and 
others only passengers. Sloops and schooners, which long ago did nearly 
all the carrying trade, still do service. 

The Central Hudson Steamboat Company has two night lines of 
steamers to New York, which carry passengers and freight. Boats of this 
line leave Newburgh and New York in the evening and afford charming 
water trips to residents and others. The company also provides the New- 
burgh. Albany and Troy line, the steamers of which leave Newburgh for 
the upward trips every morning, except Sundays, and arrive from Albany 
in the evening. The captains of the boats on the Newburgh and New 
York lines are Zach Roosa, William Meakim, Weston L. Dennis and E. 
N. Gage. Those on the Newburgh, Albany & Troy line are Fred L. 
Simpson and Egbert Van Wagner. 

The Newburgh and Fishkill ferry, for which a line of steamers was 
started in 1835, continues business, its steamers leaving Newburgh about 
every half hour between 5.45 a. m. and 10.45 P- m. H. Stockbridge Rams- 
dell is the agent. 

Newburgh and Haverstraw Steamboat Company has the steamer Eni- 
cliiic, Captain D. C. Woolsey, which starts for Haverstraw and inter- 
mediate landings each mid-afternoon and Haverstraw for Newburgh in 
the evening. 

Newburgh and Poughkeepsie line's steamer Hudson Taylor, Captain 
George Walker, leaves Newburgh for Poughkeepsie every morning. 



CITY OF NEVVBURGH. 373 

W'appinj^er's l-"all> and Xcwburg-h line's steamer Mcssciii^cr leaves 
Newburgh forenoons and early evenings. 

The West Shore Railroad, which extends north and west to Albany 
and Btiffalo and south to New York, connects at Newburgh with the line 
and the New York and the New England systems, and at Buffalo with 
the Grand Trunk and the Lake Shore Railroads. Over thirty trains a day 
arrive and dejjart on this road. It has facilities for transporting cars 
across the river. 

One Erie Railroad branch extends to a junction with the main line at 
Greycourt, eighteen miles distant, and affords a direct route to the Penn- 
sylvania coal fields and across the southern tier of New York counties to 
the west. Another Erie branch connects with the main line at New])urgh 
Junction, fifteen miles distant, and passes through a number of Orange 
County villages. About twenty passenger trains a day arrive and depart 
over these branches. 

The New York Central's Hudson River line of railroad across the river 
from Newburgh is reached by the ferry, the boats of which make close 
connection with all thrcnigh i)assenger trains. 

The Lehigh and Hudson River Railway extends from a junction with 
the Newburgh branch and the Erie's main line at Greycourl to Belvidere. 
The Newburgh branch is operated as a part of the system controlled by 
the Central Railroad of New Jersey. 

There is also the line of the Orange County Traction Company, ex- 
tending to Walden. 

Newburgh is the principal gateway for the coal traffic between Penn- 
sylvania fields and the New England States, which consume six million 
tons of coal annually. The loaded cars on reaching the river front are 
quickly ferried across to Fishkill on the transfer boat, and the roads 
coming to Fishkill distribute them. Much coal is also shipped from New- 
burgh by water to all parts of the northern country, and to the ports of 
Long Island and the New England coast. 

CEMETERIES. 

Newburgh has six cemeteries — the Newburgh, or Old Town, St. 
George's. St. Patrick's, the Hebrew, and in the suburbs. W'oodl.iwii and 
Cedar Hill. 



374 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The Newburgh has many old headstones, and is in the block where 
stood the church of the old Palatine settlers. 

St. George's is under the care of St. George's Protestant Episcopal 
Church. 

St. Patrick's is for the remains of the Roman Catholic dead and the 
Hebrew for the Jewish dead. 

Woodlawn Cemetery is controlled by the Newburgh Woodlawn Ceme- 
tery Association, which was incorporated October 22, 1870. It is in the 
town of New Windsor, a mile from the city, and is reached by a delightful 
avenue. It is an ideal location for a cemetery, with extended river and 
mountain viev\'S. Quassaick avenue, leading from the city to Woodlawn, 
is lined with elegant country residences in the micist of spacious grounds 
studded with fine trees and beautified in the warm season with wide lawns 
and varieties of beautiful flowers. The cemetery grounds contain fifty 
acres, laid out with excellent artistic taste and skill, and carefully looked 
after and kept in order by the superintendent, ]\IacLeod Rogers, who has 
occupied the position from the beginning. Some of its features are a row 
of fine cedars along the northern boundary, a dense grove on the western 
side, scattered ancient oaks, also maples, pines, elms and other kinds of 
trees, varieties of shrubs and flowers, and a natural stream. There are 
several imposing monuments and many fine designs in sculptured marble 
and granite. 

Cedar Hill Cemetery is about five miles north of the center of the city, 
and contains 100 acres in the midst of a picturesque landscape. It has 
about three miles of driveways through its park-like grounds, there is a 
stream of spring water which supplies a little lake of two and one-half 
acres, and there are many handsome monuments. The Cedar Hill Ceme- 
tery Association was organized in 1870. 

THE CIVIL WAR. 

Regarding enlistments from Newburgh and the money raised for the 
Civil War, the recapitulation in Ruttenber and Clark's History is here 
quoted : 

"i. Company B. 3d Regiment, recruited in ]\Iarch and April, 1861. 2. 
Company B, 36th Regiment, recruited in May and June. 1861. 3. Com- 
pany I, 71st Regiment IMilitia, recruited principally from Company T, 




James J. Leonard. 



CITY OF NEWIU-RCII. 375 

Kjth Rci^imcnt. 4. Coni])anies A and I'., and i)arts of C, D and G, 56111 
Regiment, recruited between July and October. 18O1. 5. Seventh Inde- 
pendent Fjattery. in part, recruited with 56th Regiment. 6. Companies 
D, E, F, I and L. 19th Regiment Militia; miscellaneous enlistments prior 
to July, 1862. III. I'nder the calls of July and .August. 1862. 470 men 
were required from the town, and 501 furnished, 217 of whom were en- 
1 oiled in the i2-|th. and 1O6 in the i68th Regiments. The call of July. i8'>3. 
re(|uired 443 men, of whom ninety were furnished; but it was merged 
in the calls of October. [863, and of February, March and July, 1864, re- 
(|uiring 75'') ; number furnished. S2J, of whom seventy-one were not cred- 
ited. The total of enlistments, including re-enlistments, was 2,250; the total 
of men required. 1,226. The public subscriptions and loans of the town, 
including at that time the village, for the promotion of enlistments and for 
bounties were: 1861. by individual subscriptions, $7,385. bonds of the vil- 
lage, $5,000; 1862. intlividual subscriptions. $17,512; 1864. town bonds, 
$175,100; total, $204,997. I" addition to this sum the town expended 
for special relief — 1863-1864 — $1,075.50; expended by aid society, and in 
contributions to the Christian Commission. $12,387.31 ; raising the total 
to $218,459.81, and the further sum of $321,320 (partly estimated) for 
special income and internal revenue taxes to January i, 1865 — a grand 
total of $539.779.81. ■■ 

POST-OFFICE. 



The Xewl)urgh post-oflfice was the first to be established in thi,> part of 
the State, and passed the centennial of its organization in December, 
1895. Prior to that date letters and other articles which now go by mail 
were carried by post riders, who delivered and deposited letters at ap- 
pointed stations. The first post-carrier station in this district is >upiK>sed 
to have been what was known as "the glass house" in the ancient village 
of Xew Windsor, where letters were addressed as early as 1755. < )ne of 
the early stations was the tavern of Michael Wiegand on present Liberty 
street, and the regular accounting p<i>t-office of i8<)5 was its succe^^sor. 
At that time, we are told, the Xewburgh office included in its rleliveries 
Marlborough, Montgomer\-. Plattckill. Xtu Windsor and other nearby 
settlements, and received mails by carriers on the eslabli>he<l l)o^t roads, 
the main trunk lines beintr the old Kinsj;'^ Hitrhwav. now Liberty street, the 



376 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

old road from Kingston to Goshen, running tlirough Montgomery, from 
which a cross mail was carried through Coldenham to Newburgh, and 
there was a main cross mail running east through Fishkill into New Eng- 
land and to Boston, which intersected a cross line on the east side of the 
river extending from New York to Albany. 

The Newburgh post-ofifice had various locations in town until 1897, 
when it was moved into its permanent home in the new Government 
building, then just completed. The equipment here was modern and com- 
plete and the space sufficient, but the rapid growth of the city's industrial 
business and other changing conditions have been such that the building 
is already too small for the increased and increasing post-office business. 
Note the changes in five years. On March i, 1900, there were connected 
with the office eight clerks, thirteen letter carriers and one substitute car- 
rier, and in 1905 there were thirteen clerks, two substitute clerks, sixteen 
carriers, four substitute carriers, and four rural delivery carriers. The 
receipts of the office for the year ending March 31, 1901, were $52,263.12, 
and for the year ending March 31, 1906, they were $73,232.79, an in- 
crease of $20,969.37. or 40.12 per cent. 

A list of postmasters from the beginning until now, with the dates of 
their appointment, follows : 

Ebenezer Foote, appointed January i, 1796; Harry Caldwell, October i, 
1797; Daniel Birdsall, October i, 1802; Chester Clark, July i, 1810; 
Aaron Belknap, March 26, 1812; Tooker Wygant, November 26, 1830; 
A. C. Mullin, May 23, 1833; B. H. Mace, November 23, 1836, Oliver 
Davis, June 11, 1841 ; James Belknap, May 18, 1843; Samuel W. Eager, 
August 6, 1849; Joseph Casterline, Jr., May 4, 1853; Ezre Farrington. 
May 22, 1861 ; James H. Reeve, November i, 1866; Henry Major, May 
7, 1867; Joseph Lomas, August 22, 1867; Ezra Farrington, July 19. 1869; 
John C. Adams, April i, 1875; Joseph M. Dickey, March 21, 1883; 
William R. Brown, April 8, 1877: William G. Taggart, April 2, 1891 ; 
Joseph A. Sneed, February i, 1892; Lewis W. S. McCroskery, March i, 
1896; Hiram B. Odell, March i, 1900, reappointed 1904 and January, 
1908. 

CITY OFFICERS. 

A list of the mayors, etc., of Newburgh with their terms of service 
since its incorporation as a city in 1865 are here given : 




Henry P. Clauson. 



CITY OF NEWBURGH. 7>77 

Mayors. 

George Clark, four tonii>. from .March ii, i80<j, t(^ }*larch 8, 1870. 

Robert Sterling, from March 8, 1870. Died April 30, 1870. Alexander 
McCann, president of the common council, acting mayor the rest of 
term, to March 7, 1871. 

William W. Carson, from March 7, 1871, to March 6, 1872. 

Samuel E. Shutes, two terms, from March 6, 1872, to March 10. 1874. 

Chauncey 'SI. Leonard, from March 10. 1874. Died December 3, 1874. 
Nathaniel B. Hayt, acting mayor rest of term, to March 10, 1875. 

John S. McCroskery, three terms, from March 10, 1875, ^o March 12, 
1878. 

Charles H. Weygant. two terms, from March 12. 1878, to March 8. 
1880. 

Abram S. Cassedy, two terms, from March 8, 1880, to March 13. 1882. 

Peter Ward, two terms, from M^'.rc'n 13, 1882, to March 11, 1884. 

Benjamin B. Odell, six terms, from March 11. 1884, to March 11. 1890 

Michael Doyle, two terms, from March 11, 1890, to March 11, 1894. 

Benjamin B. Odell, six terms, from 1894 to 1900. 

Jonathan D. Wilson, six terms, from 1900 to 1906. 

Charles D. Robinson, 1906 to 1908. 

Benjamin ^IcClung. 1908. Term expires March, 1910. 

Treasurers. 

Francis Scott, 1866- 1868, 1870. 1873- 1875. 

Lewis ^L Smith, 1869- 1870. 

James X. Dickey. 1872. 1879-1891. 

Ring A. Smith. 1876-1878. 

Jonathan N. Weed, 1891-1894. 

J. N. Dickey. 1894-1906. 

H. ^L Leonard, 1906. Term expires AL'irch. 1909. 



Recorders. 



Joseph D. Shafer, 1866- 1870. 
Charles B. Titus. 1871-1874. 
John B. Kerr, 1875- 1878. 



378 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Cornelius L. Waring, 1879-1890. 

L. W. Y. McCroskery, 1891-1895. 

W. H. Hyndman, 1895. Term expires December 31, 1910. 

Corporation Counsel. 

Jan'es W. Ta\lor, 1865-1869. 
Jolm IC Fenton, 1870-1871. 
William D. Dickey, 1872, 1878-1880. 
j. G. Graham, 1873-1874, 1885-1890. 
Abram S. Cassedy, 1875- 1876. 
George H. Clark, 1880-1881. 
Russei Headley, 1881-1884. 
Eugene A. Brewster, 180)0-1892. 
C. L. Waring, 1892. Resigned 1907. 
W. F. Cassedy, 1907-1908. 

City Siin'cyor. 

Charles Caldwell. 1866-1902. 
Everett Garrison, 1902-1906. 
William J. Blake, Jr., 1907 to present time. 

Supcri'isors. 

Supervisors from 1763 to inauguration of first city officers, March 12, 
1866: Jonathan Hasbrouck, 1763; Lewis DuBois, 1764; John Wandal, 
1765; Benjamin Carpenter, 1766; Lewis DuBois, 1767; Edward Hallock, 
1768; Latting Carpeiiter, 1769-1771; Jonathan Hasbrouck, 1772; John 
Flewwelling, 1773; Samuel Prowler, 1774; Wolvert Acker, 1775; Morris 
Flewwelling, 1776; Wolvert Acker, 1777-1780; Thomas Palmer, 1781- 
1786; John Robinson, 1787-1788; Isaac Fowler, Jr., 1789; John Robinson, 
1790-1791 ; Isaac Fowler, 1792-1795; Reuben Tooker, 1796-1807; Isaac 
Belknap, Jr., 1808; William Poss, 1809-1810; Jonathan Fisk. 181 1 ; Leon- 
ard Smith, 1812-1818; Daniel Tooker. 1819-1820; Leonard Smith, 1822; 
William Wear, Jr., 1823; William Walsh. 1824- 183 1 ; Robert Lawson, 
1832-1833 ; William Walsh, 1834; James G. Clinton. 1835-1836; Daniel 
Tooker, 1837; David W. Bate, 1838: Jackson Oakley, 1839; David W. 




William D. Barnes. 



CITY oi" XEWBl'RGH. 



379 



Hale. 184.0-1X44: jdlin W . 15r(.\vn, 1S4J; Ua.vid W. I'.atc, 184^^-1840; 
( )(lcll S. Ilatliaway. 1847-1849; Mnoch Carter. 1850; Odcll S. 1 iatlr.uvav, 
1851 ; I'jiocli Carter, 1852: Samuel J. P^arniim. 1853; IJenry Walsh. 1854; 
Stephen W. FuUerton. 1855: ( )(lcll S. Hathaway. 1856; Albert .\(X', 
1857; Enoch Carter. 1838 ; Mhcrt Xoe, 1850-1860; (hk-W S. llalhaway, 
1S61-1863; William II. llecle. 1SO4: Ceorire W. L'nderhill. 18O5; C. ( ;il- 
bert l^owler. i866. 

A FEW I!RIi:i"S. 

August 3. i8()9. two acres were added to the gn)und> nf \\'a>hin|L;t«'n'^ 
Headquarters. 

November 20. 1870, un])aralleled rain^lnmi and destructive hurricane. 

In 1870 population, 17.094. 

November 4. 1871. Newburgh's contribution to Chicago's relief fund 
over $5,500. 

January i. 1872, Newburgh's tirst steam hre engine tested. 

May 11, 1873, board of trustees created fur Washington's Head- 
quarters. 

February 13. 1878, new public library ojjened. 

'Slay 30. 1878, first exhii)ition of the ]>honograph in Xewburgh. 

September 2^. 1878, Newburgh's contribution for relief of yellow fever 
sufferers in the South. $2,613. 

July 5, 1879. mastodon unearthed at Little IJritain. 

July 28, 1879, movement to erect poles for fir>t Newburgli telei)hone. 

June 25. 1880. armory opened. 

In 1880 population 18.049. 

May 30. 1 88 1, soldiers' and sailors' monument at W'oodlawn Cemetery 
unveiled. 

June 4, 1883. first train on \\'est Slu)re kailroatl fn>m Newburgli !<• 
New^ York. 

October i. 1884, beginning of free mail tlelivery. 

October 31. 1885. Moody and Sankey evangelistic meetings. 

November 24. 1885, West Shore Railroad sold at Newburgli court-bmi-e 
for $22,000,000. 

September 2. 1886, new acailemy dedicated. 

December 2j!i. 1886, street railroad ojiened. 

March 12, 1888. unprecedented snowstorm and blizzard. 



38o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

September 17, 1888, Academy of Music opened. 

March 19, 1889. electric fire alarm system adopted. 

July I, 1889, Newburgh's contribution for relief of Johnstown flood 
sufferers, $5,164. 

September 27, 1889, display of national flag over the school buildings 
began. 

In 1890 population 23,087. 

October 6, 1896, unveiling of General George Clinton statue. 

May 9, 1900, centennial celebration of Newburgh municipality. 




Dr. C A. Gorse. 



TOWN OF NEW WINDSOR. 381 

CHAPTER XX\"I. 

TOWN OF NEW WINDSOR. 

Bv Dk. C. a. Goksi:. 

LESS than three centuries ago, to be accurate in 1609, Hendrick Mud- 
son sailed up the beautiful river to which he gave his name, and 
anchored in the broad bay above the Highlands to trade with the 
aboriginal inhabitants, who then inhabited the primeval forests which 
lined its banks. 

It is i)robable that lie and some portion of his crew were the fir>t men 
who set foot upon the virgin soil of New Windsor, but it was not 
until more than half a century later, in 1685, that a company of Scotch 
and Irish emigrants to the number of twenty-five families, with their 
servants, under the leadership of Colonel Patrick McGregorie, accom- 
panied by his sons-in-law. David I^'oshack and Captain Evens, settled 
upon the extreme eastern extremity of the town, now known as Plum 
Point, an elevation of 118 feet above the river and consisting of eighty 
acres at the mouth of the Moodna Creek. 

Here they erected a commodious cabin and established a trading post ; 
this is the earliest recorded settlement in the county. Colonel McGregorie 
was appointed muster general of the militia of the province and after his 
death, in 1691, in an endeavor to suppress an insurrection by the Leister 
partv, his sons-in-law and their families continued to reside here until 
1789. The patent which the Colonel obtained t(^ the land passed int^ flic 
possession of his son, Patrick McGregorie. Jr. 

The town is wedge-shaped, its sharp edge of about five miles in extent 
resting upon the river. There is but a small extent of comparatively level 
land along the river bank upon which the village of New Windsor stands, 
back of which there rises a steep bluff with a surface of sand and gravel, 
and a substratum of clay, which is used in the manufacture of an excellent 
quality of brick, which at the present time is the principal industry (if the 
place. The township is bounded on the north by the city and town of 
Newburgh, from which it is separated by Quassaick Creek, an outlet of 
Washington Lake, formerly known as Little Pond, also a portion of the 



382 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

town of jNTontgomery : on the west by the towns of Montgomery and 
Hamptonburg: on the south by Blooming Grove and Cornwall. From the 
latter town it is separated by Moodna Creek, near its month. On the 
east it is bounded by the Hudson River. 

The soil is of a sandy and gravelly nature, interspersed in some por- 
tions by rocks and large stones, of a diversified surface, being rolling and 
hillw After leaving the river the surface gradually ascends for a distance 
of two or three miles, interspersed with gentle elevations which have been 
utilized by retired business men of New York for sightly country resi- 
dences, most of which command a magnificent view of the noble Hudson, 
and the picturesque Highlands in the distance. 

On the northern edge of the town rises Snake Hill, or more recently 
called IMuchattoes Hill, an elevation of 600 feet above the river. It lies 
north and south and is almost perpendicular on its eastern extremitv. 
but slopes gradually on the west, from which the surface is again rollin-:;^ 
and adapted to agricultural purposes. At the distance of about five miles 
from the river the town is crossed north and south b-\' two ridges, rising 
in amphitheatre form, from whose summit is obtained a most elegant view 
of the surrounding country. The Highlands on the south, the Fishkill 
Mountains on the east, the Shawangunk Mountains on the north, an I 
the Sugar Loaf and Schunemunk Mountains on the west. 

PATENTS. 

The earliest recorded patent was i^^sued to Patrick McCiregorie in i6^S. 
Others were as follows: 1,000 acres to William Chambers and William 
Southerland. September 2, 1709; 4,000 acres (in part) to Charles Huddy 
and Phillip Brooks, P^ebruary 20, i/OQ: this included sub'-equently a por- 
tion granted to Mary Tngoldsby and her daughter, Mary Pinkhorn, Au- 
gust 12. 1720; 4,000 acres to John Haskell of the dates of A]iril 9. 1719, 
and April 24, T721 : 800 acres to \'inccnt Matthews, June 17. 1720: t,ooo 
acres to John Johnson, h>bruary 3, 1720: 1184 acres to James Henderson, 
February 12, 1722; 1,000 acres to \'incent Price (in part), July 21, 1721 ; 
2,000 acres to Andrew Johnson, July 19, 1719; 1,000 acres I0 Louis Mor- 
ris, July 21, lyzi ; 2.OO0 acres to Patrick Hume, November 29, 1721 ; 3,292 
acres to Cornelius Low & Co. (mainly"), jVIarch 20, 1720; 1,000 acres to 
Richard A'an Dam (in part). June 30, 1720; 2,000 acres to Phineas Mc- 



TOWN Ol" Xi:W WINDSOR. 383 

iini)>li (mainly I. April 'j. 1719. and sonic portions of the patent granted 
to Cadwallader Colden. April 9. 1719, some portions of uiiich and tile 
Low & Mcintosh palcnt> were cut otif in 1830, when the town of Hamp- 
toiihuro- wa> create:!. 

On the 7th of October. 1734, Dr. John Nicoll. of New York, purchased 
of Jolin W'aldron. Cornelius \'an Horn and James Livingston 7.500 acre?. 

The Chamber and Southerland patents were divided November 7. 1723. 
into three equal parts. Chambers occupying the northern i)ari. Mattliews 
the central ])art and Southerland the southern part. ( )n the death of the 
latter in 1738. his portion passed to his two sons, William an;i lohn. on the 
death of William, without issue. John inherited and also obtained, in 
1753. the water front from the village of New Windsor to Quassaick 
Creek. He .sold this to Nathaniel Smith, of Kingston in 1738. together 
with a portion of the Ingoldsby patent, jmrchased by his father in 1726; 
also a portion of the German patent ])urchased by himself m 1742. Smith 
sold a portion to Robert Boyd. Jr.. and another to George ClintonHipon 
which the latter erected a house in 1769. and resided here until electe 1 
(ioveriior in 1777, when he removed to Poughkee])sie. I-'rom him was 
purchased what is known as the Walsh farm on the Quassaick Creek, 
recently in the possession of his grandson. E. J. DeWitt Walsh.^ On this 
portion of the tract was Admiral William Chambers. Associate Judge 
John Chambers. 1751 ; Governor George Clinton. i776;'^Ca]itain Charles 
Ludlow. L'. S. N. The central jiortion held b\- Matthews was purchased 
by John Aslop. 1724. whose son John .\slop. Jr.. was prominent in the 
Revolution, and grandfather of Governor John .\slop King, in 1749. He 
also sold that portion on which the village of New Windsor stan Is to the 
comjiany called the "Proprietors" of New Windsor. .September 9, 1749. 
Their names were \'incent Matthews. Kbenezer Secly. Michael Jackson. 
Jose])h .Sackett. David Marvin. hA'an Jones and lirant .'^chuyler. 

The Southerlands tract came into the possession of Thomas I^llison in 
May. 1723. who erected a stone mansion on the bluff overlooking the 
river: also a storehouse and dock on the river, and conducted a pro-])er- 
ous business for over a century. His mansion was the hca(k|uartcrs of 
General Washington from t77<; until he moved to the lla-brook hoU'-c 
in Newburgh. 

He also purchased the \ incent Mntthews patent, adjoining, at \'air> 
Gate, in May. 1724. upon which his i-on. Thomas Ellison. Jr., erecte ' in 



384 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1754 the stone mansion and a mill, which subsequently came into the pos- 
session of his son John, and is now known as General Knox headquarters. 

The fourth patent was on the Ingoldsby patent in 1726, by John Gate, 
who sold to Thomas Ellison in 1736. He sold a portion to James Ed- 
monston in 1727, upon which the latter erected a stone house in 1754, just 
west of Vail's Gate, which figured conspicuously in the Revolution. 

Dr. John Nicoll came into possession of a considerable tract, from one 
Peter Post in 1738, which extended from New Windsor village to the base 
of Snake Hill ; his great-grandson now resides upon a portion of it on the 
river road. 

David Mandeville purchased the Mary Ingoldsby patent May ist, 1728, 
and sold to Samuel and Nathaniel Hazard who erected a mill which is 
still standing. 

A patent was granted to Colonel John Haskell in 1719 of 2,000 acres 
and another 2,000 acres in 1721 upon which he settled in 1726. He 
erected a log cabin on what was known as the Dusenberry farm, upon 
which the army erected the Temple when encamped there. Other early 
settlers upon this tract were : Even Jones, Samuel Brewster, Elizabeth 
Stollard, Andrew Crawford and Neil McArthur. 

The first settler upon the Mcintosh patent was John Davis, July 5th, 
1726; others about this time were Robert Boyd and the Dill families. 
Through his wife, Sarah Mcintosh, Nathan Smith came into possession 
of a considerable portion of this tract and erected thereon a grist mill, a 
fulling mill and a store. 

The first settler upon the Andrew Johnson patent upon which Little 
Britain now stands was John Humphrey. 1724; Peter Mullinder, 1729; 
also Mary McClaughry, John Read, Robert Burnett, in the same year ; 
Charles Clinton. Alexander Denniston, John Young, Andrew McDowell, 

1731- 

The Mailler family were here prior to 1730, who sold to Robert Cars- 
cadden. Among others who settled here with the Clintons were the Arm- 
strongs, Beatty, Barkly, Brooks, Denniston, Davis. Dunlap, Frazer, Gor- 
don, Gray. Hamilton. Little. Mitchell. McDowell. McClaughry, Oliver, 
Nicholson, Thompson, Wilson and Young, whose descendants are nu- 
merous in the county. 

The Low and Co.'s patent of 3,292 acres was granted to Peter Low. 
Garret Schuyler and John Schuyler and was divided among them. The 



TOWN OF NEW WINDSOR. 385 

third portion of John Schuyler passed by will to liis nephews, Brant and 
Samuel Schuyler. Ilrani Schuyler eventuall\- Ix-coniing- sole pos.sessor. Lnw 
and Garret Schuyler sold a considerable i)ortion to Allen Jarrett, April 
5th, 1720, Low sold 600 acres to John X'ance, September 1st, 1734, and 200 
acres to Jarvis Tompkin>, .Ma\- 22, 1738. Other settlers on this patent 
were: John Slaughter, 172O; Thomas Shaw, 1729; William Miller, 200 
acres, November 12th. 1746: Charles lieatty, 200 acres of I'.rant Schuy- 
ler's, August 22nd. 1744, which he sold to James McClaughry, July 14th. 
1749. the latter the colonel of the 3rd. Regiment of Militia, who fought 
at the Highland forts in 1777. Beatty, the son of a sister of Charles 
Clinton, became a distinguished clergyman, some of whose descendants 
still reside at Salisbury Mills in this count}-. 

James Gambell and John Humphrey purchased of the Hume i)atent 
300 acres, April 6, 1730, and divided it equally between them. Gambell sold 
to Patrick Byrne, March 12, 1744, and Hum])hrey sold to Patrick Mc- 
Claughry, February 22, 1769. The remaining portion of this patent was 
sold by James Ludlow, a nephew of the patentee, to James Neely, Henry 
M. Neely, William Young and I'atrick McClaughry. William Young 
sold to Samuel Sly 233 acres, and Gambell and TTnmi)hrey sold their por- 
tion to AVilliam Tilford and Samuel l-'alls. 

Cadwallader Colden became the owner of the John Johnson ])atent of 
2,000 acres at the date of its issue. A portion of tlv P.dknap family set- 
tled upon it in 1 750. 

The \'an Dam patent of 5,000 acres passed into tiie po.^session of Jessie 
Woodhull in 1753, also a portion to Peter Gallatin. John Moffat and the 
Walling Brothers. This tract is now included in the i)resent town of 
Blooming Grove. 

The small Henderson patent early passed inii> tlie po'^^e-j^inii ot John 
Wandel and David Edmonston. 

The Lewis Morris patent of 1,000 acres was owned by Alexander 
Denniston, Francis Crawford, Thomas Cook and William Denniston in 
1786, purchased from earlier settlers. 

We have already mentioned under the head of i)atents, many of the 
early settlers. The earliest were those of Colonel McGregorie at Plum 
Point in 1685, and the Reverend Richard Charlton, sent out by the London 
Missionary Society in 1732, for the parish of New Windsor, which was 
connected with the Church of England. Among the names of the owners 



386 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the village were: Ebenezer Seeley, Brant Schuyler, Henry Case, Vin- 
cent Matthews, Michael Jackson, Daniel Everet, Even Jones, Hezekiah 
Howell, Joseph Sackett, Jr., James Tuthill, John Sackett, Jr. Colonel 
Charles Clinton, 1731 ; Dr. John NicoU, 1734; William Ellison, 1732; John 
Ellison, Captain Jas Jackson, William Jackson, Thomas Ellison, Isaac 
Shultz, Messrs. Logan, Bryam, Halstead, Denniston and others. At Little 
Britain, John Humphrey, 1724; Peter MuUiner, 1729, who gave it the 
name from Windsor Castle in England ; Robert Burnett, John Reid, 1729 ; 
Charles Clinton, John and James McClaughry, Alexander Denniston and 
John Young in 1731. Among those who came from Ireland were James 
Edmonston, 1720; the Clintons, Alsop, Chambers, Lawrence, Haskins, 
etc., 173 1, who settled in the eastern portion of the town, while the Col- 
dens, Matthews, Wileman, Mcintosh, Bulls, settled in the more western 
portio}!. 

NOTED RESIDENTS. 



The most noted residents of this town were those of the Clinton family. 
Charles Clinton, the father of James and George, was a native of Lang- 
ford, Ireland, of Scotch-English descent. He sailed with a company of 
relatives and friends in 1729, to escape persecution. Having espoused the 
cause of the Stewards at the accession of the House of Hanover in 16S9, 
he settled at Little Britain in 173 1. He was a highly educated man and 
gave his sons a good education. He was a surveyor and a judge of the 
court of common pleas and fought in the P'rench and Indian Wars, 1759 
to 1763, was public spirited, had five sons and two daughters, lived to the 
ripe old age of eighty-three and died at home, November 19th, 1773. 

One son and a daughter died at sea. Two of his oldest sons, Alexander 
and Charles, were physicians. James and George figured conspicuously 
in the early history of the Empire State. James, born in 1756, preferred 
the army to politics. He served with his father in the taking of Fort 
Frontenac in Canada, also in the invasion by the Indians of Orange and 
Leister Counties, rose to major-general in the war of the Revolution, 
was in charge of the northern department, led an expedition against the 
Iroquois, cut a road from the Mohawk to Lake Otsego, danmied the out- 
let of the lake and floated the boats over the upper Susquehanna to reach 
the lower countrv with his command, was at the seige of Yorktown, 




Rev. Charles Gorse. 



It)\\\ ()!• Xh:\\ W l.\l)S( )1<. ^{S; 

member of the assembly, ratified tbe Constituiion ui" ilic L ni.e I Slates, 
and was a member of the convention of 1804 lo amend the State Constitu- 
tion ; died at his home December iJtb. 1S12. 75 vears of ajy:e : was biirie 1 in 
the family burying ground by the side of his father. 

George Clinton, while a very young man, sailed in a privateer in the 
French War, was with his father and brother at the seige of h'ort 1-ron- 
tcnac. studied law under Judge William Smitli, was clerk of Ulster 
County in 1759. member of the assembly in 1780, elected to the Conti- 
nental Congress in 1775, ])rigadier-gencral in 177^), first Governor of 
New York in 1777; commanded a brigade at the defense of Xcw York 
City in 1776. He was in command of the forts in the Highlands which 
he nobly defended with 600 raw militia against 5.000 veteran 1 British 
troops, and was overwhelmed and obliged to surrender m 1777; was 
Governor of the State for eighteen years, administering its trying duties 
with cons])icuous ability: was ])resident of the convention which met 
at l'oughkee])sie in 1788; \'ice- President of the United States in 1804; 
died soon after his re-election in 1808; has been designated as the h'ather 
of the State. On the beautiful monument in tlie old Dutch Churchyard in 
Kingston. X. Y.. is the following: "To the memory of George Clinton, 
born in the State of Xew York. 2r)th day of July. 1738. died at the City 
of Washington the 20th of A])ril. 1812. in the 73rd year of his age. Sol- 
dier and Statesman of the Revolution, eminent in council, distinguished 
in war. he filled with unexamjjled usefulness, purity and ability, among 
other high offices those of Governor of his native State, and \ ice-Presi- 
<lent of the United States. While he lived, his virtue, wisdom and valor 
were the pride, the ornament and security of his country, and when he 
died he left an illustrious instance and exam])le of a well-spent life. 
Worthy of all imitation." 

DeWitt Clinton, a son of James, was born .March 2nd. \j(^'). the 
jxact place, being in disi)ute. some authorities claim at I'ort DeWitt in 
IX^er Park, while his mother was there on a visit; others chiim 
at the h<me of his father, either at Uittle I Britain or while he wa- 
residing in the village of Xcw Winds, ir. Pcrha])S it doesn't matter 
■f> much where a man is born as what he may make of himself by strenu- 
ous etiforts. as was the ca<e with the illustrious Lincoln an 1 the subject of 
this sketch, .\fter graduation at Columbia College in 1786. he studied 
law with Sanniel Jones: was admitted to th.e bar in I78(); becatne soon 



388 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

after secretary to the Governor, his uncle, and became devoted to poHtics ; 
subsequent!}^ filled with great ability the following honorable positions: 
Member of the Assembly, State Senator, member of the council of ap- 
pointment, United States Senator, Mayor of the City of New York, 
many times member of the council board, Governor of the State for two 
terms, candidate for President of the United States, being defeated by 
Madison, and was invited by Mr. Adams to serve as minister to Eng- 
land, and was the author of twenty-six acts which became incorporated 
in the laws of the State and nation. The following panegyric was given 
by William H. Seward, the political successor to the Clintons in New 
York State, in 1871. 

"Only next after Alexander Hamilton. DeWitt Clinton was the wisest 
statesman, the greatest public benefactor, that in all her history the State 
of New York has produced." This was from the man who ten years after 
sat in his chair and persevered in carrying out his policies which estab- 
lished for New York the political leadership of the land. 

Alexander Denniston came over with Charles Clinton and settled at 
Little Britain in 1731. 

Robert Burnett came from Scotland in 1725, and purchased 200 acres 
at Little Britain in 1729. 

Colonel James McClaughry, born in Philadelphia, when nine years 
old was brought by his uncle, John McClaughry, to Little Britain, all the 
way behind his uncle on horseback. He married Kate, a sister of Gover- 
nor Clinton, received a colonel's commission at the commencement of the 
war, commanded a regiment at Fort Montgomery, 1777, where he was 
taken prisoner and sent to a hospital in New York, where he would have 
perished but for the extra care and comforts provided by his good wife, 
who ministered also to many others there. He returned to his farm at 
the close of the war and lived until 1790. dying at the age of 69. 

Martin Dubois, a neighbor of Robert Burnett and General James Clin- 
ton, was an assistant quarter-master during the war. 

Cadwallader Colden, Jr., of Coldenham, who married Betsy, a daughter 
of Thomas Ellison, of New Windsor, was a son of Cadwallader Colden, 
Sr. He was lieutenant-governor of the State from 1760 to 1770. He 
was arrested as a Tory in June, 1776, by the council of safety of the towns 
of New Windsor and Newburgh, and after due trial was confined in 
jail at Kingston, where he remained, for over a year, after which he 



TOWN Ol- XI-:\V WIXDSOk. 389 

was lilx-raled uu parole. Tlie town of Coldenham i•^ naim-i! atier llii^ 
familw 

REVOLUTIONARY JIISTORV. 

This town is rich in Revolutionary lore. A portion ot the troops of 
Colonel James Clinton were or<.janize(l here in 1775. A Ijattery of four- 
teen ^uns .were mounted al I'lum i'oinl in 177'>. The militia were 
rallied here in 1777, after the fall of the Highland forts and during the 
winter of 1779. 1780. 1781. 1782 and 1783. nine l)rigade> under eoin- 
nianLJ of General Heath, were encam])ed at the foot of the ridge just 
west of Snake Hill and just south of the square at Little I'.ritain. 

Washington concentrated his forces here in 1779 and made his head- 
quarters at the William J-Lllison house at New Windsor village, and re- 
mained there until 1782, when he removed to the Hashrook House in 
Newburgh and remained there until the army was disbanded in 1783. 
Other generals of the army were (|uartered al John I'Jli^on's. Here were 
Generals Knox and Greene, while ( iates and St. Claire were at the Ed- 
nionston House. Wayne at Newburgh and Baron Stuben at JMshkill, La- 
faxette at William Ellison's at the foot of I/'orge Hill. Other generals 
were (|uartered at the old Stone Hotel just west of Edmonston's. When 
Washington brought his army from New Jersey in 1779, he ])robably 
marched over the road from Goshen or Chester to New Windsor now 
known as the \'airs Gate-Chester State road, but which at that time must 
have been in a very rough and primitive condition, for a hill just west of 
Nail's Gate derives its name of Pork Hill from the fact that one of the 
conmiissary wagons loaded with salt pork was overturned on this hill. 
a conspicuous examjjle how names will --tick to places as well as to in- 
dividuals. When Colonel Morgan marched through Xew W'imixir with 
his three thousand riflemen to join Washington at I'.oston, a man jire- 
ceeded him who represented himself as Colonel Morgan to Mr. John 
Ellison, but when the Colonel himself arrived soon afterwards, the im- 
poster was detected and was given over to his men for punishment, 
who gave him an efTectual coat of tar and feathers. 

At the camp grounds between Vail's Gate and Little I'.ritain. the writer 
has traced the foundations of many of the huts in which the army was 
encamped from 1779 to 1782. The foundations were of stone, sur- 
mounted bv hewn logs. A level meadow in front of the barracks was 



390 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cleared for this purpose and utilized as a parade ground, but was of so 
marshy a character that for marching and drilling it required paving 
with flat stones, many of which are still in evidence. This must have 
been a labor of infinite difficulty and shows of what sturdy material these 
men were made. At the lower border of this parade ground was also 
constructed a causeway to the ridge opposite, upon which was erecte 1 
a temple or public building, near which were also the barracks for some 
of the minor officers, a hospital, bakery, and a little further east the bury- 
ing ground. To commemorate the site of this temple the Newburgh 
Revolutionary Monument Association has erected a rough stone monu- 
ment on the farm of the late William L. ]\IcGill, now owned an 1 
occupied by his married daughter, Mrs. Richard Smith. It commands 
an uninterrupted view of the Hudson Highlands and the majestic river 
rolling between, offering exceptional advantages for watching the ap- 
proach of any vessel on the river or of any consi leral)le bo ly of men 
from that direction. 

NOTED BUILDINGS. 

At Plum Point, formerly a portion of the Nicholl estate,' still stands the 
stately mansion of the late Phillips X'erplank. On the river side is the 
earthwork for the protection of the Chevaux-de-frise, one of five ob- 
structions placed in the river at various points to prevent the ascent of the 
British fleet, but which proved ineffectual, as the ships of the enemy 
broke them all, and ascended the river to Kingston, which it burned. 

Some portion of this boom and chain are now to be seen at Washing- 
ton's Headquarters at Newburgh. A Scotcliman by the name of Mc- 
Evers, also located here, built a log cabin or tenement long prior to 
the Revolution ; the excavation for the cellar, as well as the embankment, 
are still plainly visible. 

The point is approached by a natural causeway from the river road, 
upon the opposite side of wdiich stands the old-fashioned homestead of 
Dr. Xicoll, who purchased 500 acres of Peter Post and settled here in 
1730. 

On the bluff' just south of the village of New Windsor stood the stone 
house erected and occupied by William Ellison and also by Wash- 
ington as his headquarters from 1779 to 1782. This is now replaced by a 



T(n\X Ol- Xi:W WIXDSOK. 



391 



inodcni Oueeii Anne l)uil(ling-. tlic residence of his grandson. Thomas 
Ellison. 

Martha Washington is said to liave visited the General while here. 
His entrangement from Hamilton also occurred here in 1781. 

The Brewster House, known as Lafayette's headquarters, is >ituated 
just across the ]\loodna at the foot of Forge Hill. 

The steep hill which ascends from this point to X'ail's Gale derives its 
name from this circumstance. The iron used in its construction was 
transported on the backs of mules or horses from the forests of Dean 
Mines in Monroe. As you ascend I'\)rge Hill just at its top you come to 
the most noted Revolutionary building now in existence in the town, 
known as General Knox's headquarters. It was built for Mr. John Elli- 
son in 1735, and was in the posses.sion of the Morton family for a number 
of years, who endeavored to change the name of the i)lace to Mortonville, 
and for a time the post-office was known by this name, liut on the death 
of the major it reverted back to the old name of X'ail's (late. from the 
toll gate stationed here, kept by the \'ail family, father and son. for many 
years; this gate was still in existence in 1872. 

Generals Kno.x and Greene. Colonels Riddle and W'adsworih were (|uar- 
lered here in 1779 to 1781 and General Ivochambeau was also a visitor 
V.ere to Washington. 

The Edmonston building near the short cut crossing on the Erie at 
Vail's Gate, was built by James Edmonston in 1755. During the encani])- 
ment of the Continental Army in this vicinity, it was made the hca<l- 
quarters of Generals Gates and St. C laire. and some of the other (officers; 
al.so the hospital and military stores were kept here. When Washing- 
ton arrived here with his army, he consulted with Edmonston as to the 
best place to locate his camji and was conducted over a bridle i)ath by 
his son William to the .Stjuare which became their camj). 

At the S(|uare. so-called from being surrounded by four r<iau-. is the 
I'alls" House, occupied by the Widow Falls in 1777. when it was the 
rallying point for the scatlerel militia by ( ieneral C'linton after the fall 
of the Highland forts. It is a wooden structure just opposite the Silver 
Stream school-house, now occupied by AFr. Charles Merritt. It was 
while (ieneral Clinton was here that the incident ni the silver ball oc- 
cured. Major Daniel Ta\lor had been sent with de-])atclH"^ concealed 
in a small silver ball bv Sir I lenrv Clinton for P>urg<ivne. He was, 



392 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

captured October loth, 1777. After he had been conducted to the pres- 
ence of General George CHnton, instead of Sir Henry, as he supposed, 
he swallowed the ball. Dr. Moses Higby, who was in the neighborhood, 
administered an emetic and it was soon disgorged. It contained the. 
following on very thin paper: 

"Fort Montgomery, Oct. 8th. 1777. 
"Nous y, void, and nothing now between us but Gates. I sincerely 
hope this little success of ours will facilitate your operations. In answer 
to your letter of September 28th by C. C., I shall only say, I cannot 
presume to order or even advise, for obvious reasons. I heartily wish 
you success. 

"Faithfully, yours, 

"H. Clinton." 

Taylor was tried, condemned and executed as a spy. 

;' '■ THE TEMPLE. 

It was upon what was then known as the Dusenberry farm, formerly 
a portion of the General Haskins' estate, an English officer who settled 
4,000 acres, during the old French War, that this building was erected 
under the supervision of General Heath, for the use of the army and for 
Masonic meetings. 

It was here that General Lafayette was made a Mason by the American 
Union League, which accompanied the army. It was built of hewn logs, 
80 X 40 ft., with a barrack roof, first known as the Temple of Virtues, 
but on account of a carousal of the officers after the departure of Wash- 
ington, on the night of its dedication, it was afterwards known simply as 
the temple. 

It was also used for public services on the Sabbath. At the close of 
the war, a proclamation by Congress of the cessation of hostilities was 
read from its door and a celebration on a grand scale was held. Here 
also was held the meeting to consider the Newburgh letters, written by 
a Major Armstrong, to determine, "whether the army should rise 
superior to the grievances under which it had long suffered, and precipi- 
tate a separation betwen the military and civil powers." It was a vital 
crisis in the history of the republic, and a tragic ending prevented by an 



TOWN OI- NEW WINDSOR. 



393 



a(l(Irc>s of Washington to the officers at this time, which is a lasting niuiiii- 
ment to his unselfish patriotism, profound wisdom, superior ability and 
marked discretion. The Society of the Cincinnati was founded here in 
1783. "To perpetuate among the officers of the army and their descend- 
ants, the memory of their toils, trials, friendships and triumphs, for suc- 
ceeding ages." The following were among the signers : Lieutenant Robert 
lUirnett, Brigadier James Clinton. Lieutenant Alexander Clinton. Lieu- 
tenant Daniel Denniston, Lieutenant George J. Denniston, Captain James 
Gregg, Captain Jonathan Lawrence, Major Samuel Logan, Ensign Jo- 
seph Morrell. Lieutenant William Stranahan, Lieutenant William .Soud- 
der, many of whose descendants are residents of the count v. 

On the northern side of the monument spoken of as marking the -^iie 
of the temple, is the following inscription: "Erected by the Newburg 
Revolutionar\ Monument Association, 1891. E. ]\L Ruttenber, president; 
James 'SI. Dicke\ . vice-president; A. A. McLean, treasurer; Russell 1 load- 
ley, secretary." 

On the western face is the following: "Oiiiiiin rcliijiiif scrrcrc rcm- 
publicam. On this site the Society of the Cincinnati was born May loth. 
1783, at the last cantonment occupied by the American Army, and it still 
lives to perpetuate the memories of the Revolution. Committee of the 
New York State Society of the Cincinnati, Fourth of July. 1802. T. ^L L. 
Christy, chairman. William Simm Kcese. John Sha\ler." 

On the southern face : "On this ground was erected the temple (^r public 
building by the army of the Revolution, 1782- 1783 — the birthi)lace of 
the re])ublic. This tablet is inscribed by the Masonic l'raternit\- of New- 
burgh, and its Masonic confreres under wliose direction and ]ilan- ihc 
temple was constructed, and in which communications of the fraternity 
were held. 1783." 

The Clinton homestead was situated about two miles north of Wa>h- 
ingtonville. on the road to Little I'.ritain. 

\ii.i..\(;i-:s. 

New Windsor, in its early history, was the scene of great commercial 
activity and the outlet by the river for the produce of the country for 
miles around and promised to be the site of a flourishing town, but the 
limited extent of land between the river and the high bluff, of about 120 
feet in lieighl. but a short distance from the river, precluded the possibility 



394 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of building any large towns between. This high bluff is composed of clay 
which is utilized in the manufacture of a fine quality of brick. Air. 
William Lahey, who has two brickyards, is the leading manufacturer. 
Mr. Hugh Davidson and the late Mr. Walsh each owned one. The re- 
mains of several docks on the river front are still in evidence of its 
former business activity. A ferry to Fishkill was maintained for a num- 
ber of years and until Newburgh sprang up and superseded it in commer- 
cial life it was a flourishing town. At the present time there are some 
thirty houses, stores and saloons, scattered along the river bank, occupied 
by about two hundred inhabitants. The first glass factory in this country 
was also built here. 

Moodna, formerly called Orangeville, situated at the mouth of the 
Moodna Creek, is a small hamlet of perhaps thirty houses. There are also 
two factories at this place, a paper mill, formerly that of Townsend, now 
owned by the Hemmingway Paper Co., and a cotton mill ow'ned by ]Mr. 
John Broadhead, of Firthcliffe, which is now closed. Plum Point, of 
Revolutionary fame, juts out into the river just north of the village and 
is frequently visited by tourists. 

Vail's Gate, four and a half miles from Newburgh, contains about 
thirty-five houses, a Methodist Episcopal church, three hotels, and a gen- 
eral store, where Mr. Thomas Gushing has a new building. 

The General Knox headquarters, the Edmonston house, and the old 
hotel buildings of stone are the most noted Revolutionarv relics. The 
population is probably about four hundred. 

Little Britain, made famous as the home of the Clintons, extends 
from the Square to the Little Britain creamery. At the Square are a 
dozen houses, most prominent among which is the Alexander Falls house. 
Here General Washington was a frequent visitor during the encampment 
of the army just south. 

Rocklet, a small hamlet in the extreme western part of town, has 
a store and post-office, kept by Mr. Frank Mulliner. 

The Ontario and Western railroad intersects the township for a dis- 
tance of seven miles and is taxed for $85,000; Erie, six miles, assessed for 
$42,000 ; West Shore, five miles, assessed for $22,000. 

The schools are — District No. i. New Windsor; No. 2. Moodna; No. 3, 
Aail's Gate; No. 4, Mount Arie ; No. 5, Silver Stream; No. 6, Little 
Britain ; No. 7, Alexr.nder Neighborhood ; No. 8. Rocklet. 



TOWN Ol" XI-:\V WINDSOR. 3^5 

CHLKCHKS. 

St. ThouHis. — \\\ tlif will di' Tliuiiia^ MiiisDii, Jr.. tifiy->ix acres of 
Ian 1 and the sum of six thousand pounds, [{nj^lish money, was bccjucathed 
to his brother. W'ilHam. and nephew Thomas, to be held in trust for the 
maintenance of a glebe and minister under the jurisdiction of the Protes- 
tant Episcopal Church at Xew Windsor, the interest of said lands an 1 
M'.m to be paid yearly to the minister when in active service ; when there 
was no service the interest therefrom was to be added to the princi])al. 
When a religious organization should be eltected. the said Ian Is an 1 sum 
were to be conveyed to it. Such an organization was established, .\pril iS. 
1818, under the title of St. Thomas's Church, and the Rev. John Ijrown, 
then a resident of Xew Windsor, al.so serving St. George's Church at 
Xewburgh, became its rector and continued so up to 1847. 

In 1844, the old church having been destroyed by fire, a new one was 
started in 1847. and the present church completed in 1849. The old 
rectory having been burned, a new one was built -n 1(^04. The value of 
the church property is estimated at $13,000. Among the prominent mem- 
bers who have been here for a good many years are. Messrs. .\ymar 
\ an jiuren. J. .\l)ner Harper. John Harper. 1-". W. Senff. K. 1). Jeffreys. 
W. C. Gregg, the Misses Morton. Mrs. Leonard 1". Xicol an 1 others. 

A't'tv.' Windsor Presbyterian. — This church was organized in 17^)4. 
It was associated with Xewburgh or Pjethlehem churches. From 1828 to 
1834 the Rev. J. H. Thomas, of the Canterbury Presbyterian Church, 
served also this church, and from 1834 to 1835 he served this church ex- 
clusively. The first building was used by the Continentals as a hospital. 
This was subsec|uentl\- de-troyed by fire and the present structure wa^ 
erected in 1807. 

.1/. E. Chnrch at I 'ail's date. — This church celebrated the centennial 
of its existence in the fall of 1806. the present building having been 
erected in 1706. and is the oldest church edifice. Its society originate 1 
from a uni(»n class started l)y John I\lliso!i in I78(>. and was conducted in 
one of his tenements for a quarter of a century. 

Little Britain M. R. Church was ercctetl in 1853 and occui)ied in 1854. 
and has been associated with other churches mostly during it> exist- 
ence. Services were held here up to 1885. since which it has remain I 
closed. 



396 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Little Britain Presbyterian Church was organized in 1760 as Associated 
Reformed by Scotch and Irish emigrants. The first edifice was erected 
in 1765, and rebuilt in 1826. Its first pastor, Robert Annan, was in- 
stalled in 1768, and served until 1783. Rev, Thomas J. Smith was his 
successor in 1791, who served until 1812, when Rev. James Schringeour, 
a Scotchman, was installed, and served until his death in 1825. 

CEMETERIES. 

The two principal cemeteries in this town are "Calvary," at the junc- 
tion of Quassaic avenue and the Walsh road, established within the last 
decade by the Catholics, and "Woodlawn," a half mile further west, 
which contains about thirty acres and has been in existence about twenty- 
five years. 

In the ancient burying ground connected with the Presbyterian church 
at the village of New Windsor, are the graves of James Williams and 
wife, Abigal Brewster; John Yelverton, one of the original settlers, who 
died in 1767 at the age of 74; Joseph Morrell, one of the heroes of the 
Revolution. Other early settlers whose names are recorded on tombstones 
are the Moores, Walshes, Logans, Brewsters and others. In connection 
with the M. E. Church at Vail's Gate is also another old burial ground. 
Here are the Mortons, the Stills, the Vails and many others of the fore- 
fathers of the hamlet who "rest from their labors and their works do fol- 
low them." 

James Clinton, the father of De Witt Clinton, was buried in the family 
burying ground on the Clinton estate. When the patriotic citizens of 
Newburgh thought to remove his remains to W^oodlawn and erect a monu- 
ment to his memory, all that could be found was the cofifin plate. The fol- 
lowing epitaph to the memory of his father was written by his son. De- 
Witt : "He had filled with fidelity and honor several distinguished civil 
offices, was an officer of the Revolutionary War. and the war preceding, 
and at the close of the former was a major general in the army of the 
United States. He was a good man and a sincere patriot, performing in 
a most exemplary manner all the duties of life, and he died as he lived, 
without fear and without reproach." 



TOWN OF TUXEDO. 397 



CHAPTER XX\ II. 
TUWX OF TUXEDO. 

THIS triangular townshi]) is in tlie southeast corner of Orange 
County. It is bounded on the north by the towns of Monroe and 
Woodbury, on the east and >()Uth by Rockland County and on 
the west by the town of Warwick. Its area as given in the latest super- 
visors' report is 27,839 acres, and the assessed valuation of real estate 
is placed at $2,510,500. The title to the soil is .derived from the Chese- 
cock ])atent. 

The general topographical features are invested with peculiar charm. 
The towering mountain crags anrl scattered bits of valley, the wildwood 
and forests primeval, are dimpled with beautiful lakes and threaded 
with purling streams. The Ramapo, which is made up wholly by the 
surplus waters of these lakes, has its head in Round Island l'on<l and 
flows thence southerly, through the vallc}- which bears its name, into 
Rockland County. 

The name Tuxedo is. undoubtedly, the corruption of one or more 
Indian words. In the language of the Algonquins, who occupied this 
region, it is found that to or tough mean "a place." A frec|uent habit 
of the Indians was to name a place after the chief whose tribe occupied 
it, and there was a sachem named P'tauk-seet. "the bear," who. in the 
seventeenth century, ruled over a tract of country including the present 
town of Tuxedo. I'niting his name with tough, the Algonciuin for place, 
we should infer the original s|)elling to have been P'tauk-seet-tough. and 
its meaning "Place of P>ears." The earliest mention of the name occurs 
in Sargeant's survey of 1754 where reference is made to Tuxedo Pond. 
In Chesecock's patent of 1769 it is written Potuckett. Krskine. in his 
survey of 1778-1779, writes it Tuxedo and Toxedo. In Eager's and 
Ruttenber's histories written respectively in 1847 and 1875 the name is 
corrupted to Duck Cedar, with the explanation that its margin is over- 
trrown with cedars and that it i^ a favorite haunt of wild ducks. 



398 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The first description of this region is written by the Marquis de Chas- 
teUux, a French officer who came to America with Lafayette, and who,, 
on December 19, 1780, following the Continental road through the gorge 
south of the lake, then called "The Clove," presently came in view of 
Tuxedo. He mentions that at Ringwood he stopped to ask his way, and 
that at Erskine's house they gave him full information about the roads 
and wood-paths, and also "a glass of Madeira, in accordance with a 
custom of the country, which will not allow you to leave a house without 
taking something." Having been thus refreshed, he says : "I got on horse- 
back and penetrated afresh into the woods, mounting and descending- 
precipitous hills until I found myself at the edge of a lake so secluded 
that it is hardly visible from the surrounding thicket. Its banks are so 
steep that if a deer made a false step on the top he would infallibly roll 
into the lake. This lake, which is not marked upon the charts, and is 
called Duck Sider, is about three miles long and two miles wide fsic!). 
an.l is in tne wildest and most deserted country I have yet passed through. 
My poetic imagination was enjoying the solitude, when, at a distance, 
] perceived in an open spot, a quadruped, which a nearer observation 
showed to be not the elk or caribou, for which I at first mistook him, 
but ci hcrse grazing peaceably in a field belonging to a new settlement." 

SETTLEMENT. 

Following the grant of the Chesecock patent in 1702 there was no 
settlement in this territory for man}' years. The families who came were 
mostly of English ancestry and moved from Long Island and the Eastern 
States. The Smiths are supposed to have explored this region as early 
as 1727. The first settlement in the vicinity of Tuxedo Lake was made 
at the northern extremity of this body of water. Prior to 1765, a wood- 
cutter named Hasenclever inclosed a ten-acre tract lying equally on both 
sides of the outlet. On a survey made in 1778 is shown his enclosure 
and the dam built by him, and also the position of the house, situated 
fifty yards northeasterly from the dam. and built by a man named How- 
ard, who was probably "the original settler." During the Revolution, 
when the iron works on the Ramapo were liable to interruption by the 
IJritish, Hasenclever's dam* was raised several feet, and the overflow 
turned southwest to supply the Ringwood furnaces in New Jersey. Dur- 



TOWN ol' rrxEDo. 



399 



my; this period. Tuxedo Lake was the resort of a hand of cowhoys who 
at times found >heher amon<^ some rocks whicli they nameil after their 
leader. "'ClaucHus Smith's Cave." (See general historv. ) 

X'icent Helms was chosen constahlc in 1775. IMiineas an I iin-wster 
IJelms are also mentioned in the records of the oM li>wn ot Cornwall of 
which this locality was then a part. The hamlet llelmshurt,di indicates 
the place where the families of that name lived before the Rev(.)lution. 
Moses Cunningham was a member of the first board of assessors of thc 
town of ]\Ionroe erected in 1709. He livdd at (ireenwood Iron Works. 
Richard ^^'ilkes. school commissioner in 1709. also lived here. Adam 
Belcher, school commissioner in 1800. lived at Southtields. 

The survey and construction of the Continental road was jierformeci 
by the military engineers of the Continental Army in 1778. It entered 
the park at the present south gate and followed the cast lake shore at 
a somewhat lower level than the jiresent road. h>om the Hoffman corner 
i'l continued up to the east slope of the Alexander place to the to]) of 
Tower Hill, where it crossed to the Coster ])lace, thence to the (iriswold 
place, which it crossed to the end of what is now the Wee Wah Lake 
and left the j^ark near the present north gate where it joined the main 
turnpike I'oad of the Ramapo \'alley. There was also a wood road from 
the jiresent east gate to the Continental road at the Hoft'man corner. 

CIIAXC.IXC CONDITIONS. 

L'p to 1864 the territorv now embrace.! in the town of Tuxe lo be- 
longed to the town of Monroe. In the fall of i8(i_:^. a petition 
was sent to the board of su])ervisors re(|ue.sting that tlie town be divided 
into three towns. The re(|uest was granted and the new towns were 
nameil resjiectivelv Monroe. .Southfield and Highland. Monroe held 
its town meeting March 22, 1864, electing Chauncey 15. Knight. sui)er- 
visor. Southfield did likewise, electing Josiah Patterson. supervi>or. 
while Highland chose its old fav<irite Morgan .Smith. This ])iece ol poli- 
tical surgery did not prove satisfactory, and in 1865 the Legislature over- 
ruled the action of the board of supervisors and restored to its citi/.en- 
the old town of Monroe. 

.\gain in December of 1889 the boarfl of supervisors were prevaile I 
upon to effect a triple division of the town. Tlu- rea-xm advanci- 1 ffir 



400 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

this redivision was that the town was too large and its interests too diverse 
for harmonious government. It was resolved that the division should he 
made on the old lines, but that the names Tuxedo and Woodbury should 
be substituted for Southfield and Highland. This was duly passed by 
the Legislature and signed by the Governor. The lines were run so as 
to give Monroe 12.101 acres. Tuxedo 27,839 acres and Woodbury 23.839 
acres. However, the boundary line between Monroe and Tuxedo had 
not been clearly determined or marked by monuments. When the Heine 
Club desired to build a road from Mombasha to Southfield, it became a 
practical question how much of this road must be paid for by each town. 
Hence the question as to the dividing line. The men who were with 
the 1863 surveyor said: "It crossed Mombasha Pond, but they did not 
know where." A survey was then made by F. J. Knight, who established 
a true line, demonstrating- that the line of 1863 had been a trial or ran- 
dom line. This decision placed Mombasha in the territory of Monroe. 

In January 1890, J. Spencer Ford represented the town of Tuxedo 
in the board of supervisors; in 1894, Paul Tuckerman was elected super- 
visor; Mahlon J. Brooks filled the office in 1896 and 1897, and Charles 
S. Patterson, the present incumbent, has served continuously since 1898. 
Daniel F. Clark, the veteran bookkeeper, has held the office of town clerk 
since 1890. Gillmore O. Bush, the present postmaster and captain of 
the park police, held the office of town collector in 1890 and from 1894 
to 1899. The assessors for 1907 are M. J. Brooks, Joseph W. Conklin 
and Benjamin Mofifatt. The highway commissioners are George Gris- 
wold, Benjamin Mofifatt and William Viner. District schools are located 
at Arden, Southfields, Eagle Valley, Scott Mines, and in Tuxedo Village 
are the primary and union free schools. Of the latter institutions, Mr. 
James Cronon has been the efficient clerk of the board since 1891. A 
private preparatory school is conducted within the limits of the park. 

Episcopal churches are located at Arden and Tuxedo, Methodist Epis- 
copal churches at Southfields, Tuxedo and Scott Mines. The Roman 
Catholic church is in Tuxedo village. 

The main line of the Erie Railroad parallels the Ramapo river through 
the entire length of the town, and was opened in September, 1841. In 
this valley are the hamlets that took part in the iron industry of a century 
ago. Augusta was the seat of the "Augusta Works" founded at the 
close of the Revolution, 1783-1784, by Solomon Townsend of New York, 



TOWN OF TUX EDO. 401 

to make bar iron and anchors. It was an impurtani cnierpri-c but not 
permanently successful. In later years the works came into the owner- 
ship of r. Lorillard, who allowed thcni to remain idle. Thirteen thou- 
sand acres of land were attached to the works. Southfield was the name 
of the locality of the "Southfield" and "Monroe" works. These enter- 
prises were established about 1805 to make pig iron. The early proprie- 
tors were William and Peter Townsend. Stirling I'urnace, of which 
the Southfield plant became an important branch, was in operation a 
century and a half ago. (See Warwick). The ^terling Iron & Railway 
Company filed their annual report with the county clerk January 17,1865. 
They purchased mines, manufactories and other property in southern 
Orange. Greenwood Iron Works w^as established in 181 1 by the Messrs. 
Cunningham to make pig-iron. Mr. P. P. Parrott became the subsequent 
owner. The Parrott Iron Company was formed by a certificate verified 
June 23, 1880. It engaged in mining and selling of iron ore and 
the manufacture of pig iron and steel. The capital stock was stated as 
$500,000. The tru'itees named w^ere Peter P., Edward M., and R. D. 
A. Parrott. The locality is now know^n as Arden, and is the headquarters 
of the Arden Dairy Farms, of which Mr. W'illiam A. McClellan is mana- 
ger. A short distance northeast, bordering Echo Lake, is the home of 
Mr. E. H. Harriman. who owms vast tracts of land throughout this re- 
gion. Helmsburgh is a rural mountain locality west of Southfields. 
Eagle \'alley is a station on the Erie Railroad, in the extreme southern 
angle of the town, near the Xew Jersey line. 

TUXEDO TARK. 

The tract of land containing tliis ])ark consists of 7,000 acres, 
and came into the possession of the Lorillard family in 1812. 
Shafts were sunk in various places in an attempt to find iron ore. but the 
property was otherwise undeveloped until the advent of the Erie Rail- 
road in 1841. The locomotives burned wood in those days, and an ar- 
rangement was made to supply the railroad with fuel. The hills and 
valleys were covered with large forest trees, all of which were sacrificed, 
excepting a few along the Continental road. The station here was for 
years known as the 'AVood Pile." 

About i860 Tuxedo Lake was stocked with black bass, and from that 



402 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

time the fishing was carefully preserved for the Lorillard family and 
their friends. Up to 1885 no better bass fishing could be found anywhere 
than that afforded by this beautiful lake. This suggested to Mr. P. Loril- 
lard (deceased, 1901), the idea of establishing here a shooting and fish- 
ing club. He bought out the other members of the family, and acquired 
a clear title to the whole tract. Five thousand acres were enclosed in a 
wire fence eight feet high. Deer were bought and turned loose. English 
pheasant eggs were procured in large quantities and several pheasant 
hatcheries were located. A fine trout hatchery was also built. 

Having made a start on the preserve, Mr. Lorillard proceeded to or- 
ganize the club. He gave a dinner to his sporting friends at the LTnion 
Club, New York, and his idea met with an enthusiastic reception. Twenty 
gentlemen were appointed a board of governors. Invitations to join the 
club were sent out, and temporary headquarters secured in New York. 

The foundations of the clubhouse were laid, and about 1,800 men were 
employed in roadmaking. Before the new work was begun there was 
but the Continental road through the park. The first park road con- 
structed was the Station road. The construction of the road around the 
lake was then undertaken. As the work progressed Mr. Lorillard de- 
cided, instead of a mere game preserve, to lay out a residential park. 
This plan involved enormous expense. Many roads were required to 
develop the building sites. A complete sewer and water system was con- 
structed. A village for shops and employees and a large livery stable 
were built. An office in the village for the transaction of the park busi- 
ness was opened. At the same time Mr. Lorillard formed a stock com- 
pany called the Tuxedo Park Association, to which he turned over all the 
lands and other assets of the park. The officers chosen were : Mr. P. 
Lorillard, president; P. Lorillard, Jr., vice-president; George D. Findley. 
treasurer, and William Kent, secretary. This company leased the club- 
house and grounds to the members for twenty-one years, and guaranteed 
the new club against loss for the first ten years of its existence and sub- 
sequently during the term of the lease. Fourteen houses were built and 
advertised for sale or rent. Twelve were located on Tower Hill and two 
across the dam at the foot of the lake. 

The first sale of park property to a resident was made in February, 
1886, when Dr. Morris H. Henry, Mr. Lorrilard's personal physician, 
purchased Lot No. loi on the map of Tuxedo Park. This was followed 



TOWN OF TUXEDO. 403 

in March, the same year. l)y tlic purchase of Lot X(j. jjo hv Allen T. 
Rice, the editor of the Xurtli American Rcznei>j, and the same vear Lot 
No. 121 was sold to William Waldorf Astor, Lot No. 123 to I'ierre Loril- 
lard and Lot. No. 103 to Travis C. \'an 15uren, all of which persons are 
now deceased, the land having in every instance passed into other hands. 

That same year, Francis D. Carley, James L. lireese, Josephine Lee 
Price, James Brown Potter, Margaret S. E. Cameron and Mary L. Uarbey 
also purchased land in the order named. ()f the>e Mrs. I'rice, Mrs. 
Barbey and Mr. Potter still hold interests in the real estate. 

The first person actually to take up his residence at Tuxedo with his 
family was ]\Ir. CJrenville Kane, who leased the cottage he subsequently 
purchasetl and is now the oldest resident of the park proper. Mrs. Price 
and William Kent, in the order named, being the next arrivals. 

Thus the park as a ])lace of residence became an accomplished fact, 
through the indomitable pluck and energy of ^Ir. Lorillard. Each vear 
has shown a steady and substantial gain in residents. The present of- 
ficers of the association are : P. Lorillard, president : George Griswold. 
vice-president; George D. iMUtUey, treasurer, and William Kent, secretary. 

As an organization the Tuxedo Club is very strong. The club book 
of 1908 shows a inembership of 374, of which seventy-seven were resi- 
dent members. Among them are fotmd the family names of those not 
only prominent in business and financial circles, but also who have been 
identified with the society of the State since the earliest periods. The club 
is seit-supporting, has renewed its lease with the Tuxedo Park Associa- 
tion for a term of years, and bids fair to become a great center of social 
life. . 

TUXEDO \ALLi:V. 

So comprehensive was the scope of the original i)lan of development, 
that a whole village was created at the time of the founding, near the en- 
trance gate, containing stores, cottages, and subse(iuentl}- a town hall, 
schoolhouses, churches, library, and a $30,000 hospital now in course of 
construction. 

The Tuxedo Stores Company was organized March, iS<>4. I-^ach resi- 
dent of the park was invited to subscribe to the xfork. ruid tlu' coninaiu 
began business April i, 18(74. 

The Tuxedo electric light j)lant was organized in i8(/i>. ami is owned 
and controlled bv the residents of Tuxedo. 



404 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

St. Mary s-in-Tnxcdo. — In 1887 Mr. Henry T. Barbey obtained from 
the association a grant of land, on which he erected the first church build- 
ing at Tuxedo, since which time it has been greatly enlarged by additions 
from time to time including a large parish house — until it had grown 
into the present beautiful church edifice. It was consecrated October 
14, 1888, and the Rev. Mr. Colston placed in charge. The present rector 
is the Rev. William FitzSimon. 

Church of Our Lady of Mount Caruicl. — The cornerstone of this 
church, was laid June, 1895. The edifice cost $7,000. Rev. James Quinn 
was the first pastor. In July, 1899, the church and rectory were com- 
pletely destroyed by fire. A year later it was rebuilt, and on September 
23, 1900, was solemnly dedicated by the Most Rev. Archbishop Cor- 
rigan. 

The Tuxedo police force was organized May i, 1886. John Pederson 
was captain until 1891, when he was succeeded by Gillmore O. Bush. The 
residential part of the park is patrolled regularly day and night. 



TOWX OF WALLKILL. 405 

CHAPTER XWIII. 

TOWN OF WALLKILL. 

By William B. Ruyce. 

THE town of Wallkill is the second largest town in the county of 
Orange, and, exclusive of the area in the city of Middletown, 
contains 38,030 acres, as shown by the equalization table of the 
board of supervisors for the year 1906. This area would be considerably 
increased if an accurate estimate could be obtained of the amount of land 
not included in farm and lot descriptions and being used for church, ceme- 
tery, school and road purposes. 

The town is bounded northerly by Crawford and Montgomery, easterly 
by Hamptonburgh, southerly by Goshen and Wawayanda, and westerly 
bv Mount Hope and the Shawangunk Kill, which separates it, for about 
half the distance, on its westerly border, from the town of Mamakating, 
.Sullivan County. The Wallkill River forms part of its easterly boundary, 
dividing it from the town of Hamptonburgh. This stream also passes 
through the southeast corner of the town, and is the only large stream 
flowing within its borders. Both the Wallkill and Shawangunk Kill 
flow in a northerly direction and find their way into the Hudson River at 
Rondout. The other streams in the town of Wallkill are small; the prin- 
cipal ones being Monhagen Creek, flowing through the city of Middle- 
town ; the Bullhack. rising near Circleville and emptying into the Wall- 
kill near Phillipsburgh ; and the Mayunk. flowing through the easterly 
portion of the town and emptying into the Wallkill in the town of Mont- 
gomery. Notwithstanding the fact that there are no important streams, 
the town is well w^atered by small streams and springs, so that there is 
never danger to agriculture from this source. 

The topography of the town of Wallkill is very irregular, varying in 
elevation from 335 feet above sea level in the easterly portion of the town 
along the Wallkill to 1,035 feet in the westerly, alx)ut three miles west 
of the city of Middletown and about half a mile north of the old Monnt 
Hope turnpike. All the principal ridges and valleys («f the town run in a 
northerlv and southcrlv direct ion. 



4o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

EARLY CHANGES AND GOVERNMENT. 

The precinct of Wallkill, of which the present town is the legal suc- 
cessor, was erected December 17, 1743, by an act of the Colonial Legisla- 
ture. The three towns of Crawford, Montgomery and Wallkill, and por- 
tions oi Mount Hope and Hamptonburgh, were embraced in the area 
of this precinct. In 1772 the precinct of Hanover was erected, or set off, 
from the precinct of Wallkill, and included the towns of Crawford and 
Montgomery and a portion of Hamptonburgh, and, while it was generally 
supposed that Wallkill became a new precinct, legally Hanover was set 
off from the old precinct, and the statute directed that the rest of the ter- 
ritory "should remain" the precinct of Wallkill. It is also a fact that the 
town records of the precinct of Wallkill were left with, and became a part 
of, the records of Hanover, and. from the date of the separation, die pre- 
cinct of Wallkill opened a new record, which is still preserved. Up to the 
time of the erection of the precinct of Hanover, the town or precinct 
meetings were held for the whole precinct, including all territory orig- 
inally forming the precinct of Wallkill. 

The first town meeting in the precinct of Wallkill, after the division, 
was held at the house of Samuel Watkins. April 7, 1772, and the follow- 
ing is the record of the officers chosen : 

William Dunn, clerk and supervisor; Benjamin Booth, James Wilkins, 
Elijah Reeve, commissioners for regulating and laying out public high- 
ways ; Stephen Harlow, William Watkins, David Moore, commissioners 
for laying out the money raised by act of Assembly on the highways ; 
David Crawford, Moses Phillips, assessors ; John McGarrah, John Patter- 
son, constables and collectors ; Abel Wells, George Booth, poormasters ; 
Jonathan Smith, Esq., Isaiah Vail, John Ketchum, Benjamin Vail, Jr., 
fence viewers and damage appraisers. Fences were to be four and one- 
half feet high, staked and ridered; five rails high or otherwise ecjuivalent 
as the fence viewers shall judge. 

Many items of interest could be gleaned from these old records, one 
of the principal being the fact that many of the persons in Wallkill to-day, 
occupying prominent social, business and official positions, are the direct 
descendants of these sturdy pioneers of earlier days. 

The construction and care of the roads then, as now, seemed to be one 
of the principal subjects in which the people were interested. In order to 



TOWN OF WALLKILL. 407 

demonstrate tliis. and at the same time [jreservc the names of many of 
those who then assumed the long-enduring business of road building in 
Wallkill, we make the following quotations from the records : 

"Precinct to be divided in three districts, viz: The east side of the 
Wallkill, one; the west side, two, to be divided by the new northwest 
lirie." 

"Samuel W'atkius, from the Widow McBride's corner to Thomas 
Simeril's, and thence along the road to Campbell's bridge." 

"William liodle, from Esquire Smith's to the ^linisink road, and 
from the schoolhouse on the road to Hezekiah Gale's ; from thence to 
John McGarrah's, and thence to the schoolhouse ; to work also on David 
Crawford's road to the bridge one day." 

"John Hill, from Esquire Smith's road along the Minisink road to the 
middle of Connor's bridge; also a piece of road leading from the Mini- 
sink road to Orange County." 

"James Rogers, Jr., from the precinct line to the Widow McCord's 
north gate." 

"Captain William Faulkner, from his own house to Thomas Simeril's." 

"Henry Savage, from the Widow McCord's north gate to Arzuble ^Tc- 
Curdy's house." 

"Daniel Tears, from the precinct line to John McHenry's house." 

"Edward Campbell, from the John McHenry's to Arzuble McCurdy's, 
and Peter McLaughlin, from the corner of Edward McNeal's lot to 
Phillips house." 

"Tilton Eastman, from Connor's bridge to the Pine Swamp." 

"Stacy Beakes, from Minisink road to Dunning's road th.at leads to 
Pine Swamp." 

"George Smith, from the midflle nf the white-oak bridge to the top 
of the round hill beyond Corey's." 

"John Ketchum, from the top of romid liill to the west end of the pre- 
cinct." 

"Abraham Taylor and John Daily. Jr.. from the white-oak bridge by 
Elijah Reeve's to the precinct line." 

"There was raised by direct taxation for the following purposes:" 

£ s. d. 

"For the poor 10 o o" 

"For highways 46 16 o" 



4o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

For the year 1906 there was raised by direct taxation in the town of 
Wallkill, which contains only about one-third of the acreage of the pre- 
cinct of Wallkill, for the support of the poor, $1,000, and there was 
expended in the town for road purposes, exclusive of the care of State 
roads, and exclusive of the territory embraced in the City of Middletown,- 
about $4,500. Presumably many of our taxpayers would prefer the olden 
days so far as taxes are concerned. 

SOME EARLY HISTORY. 

Very little is known of the aboriginal days of the town of Wallkill. 
While various tribes of Indians occupied different parts of Orange County, 
from the names of certain of the streams in the town of Wallkill, it is 
evident that they made their home, at least part of the time, in this town. 
However, outside of tradition and a few individual cases of contact with 
them, which had very little, if any, influence on the future history of the 
town, nothing reliable is known that would be of interest at the present 
time. 

The earliest record of the patenting of lands, now included within the 
town of Wallkill, was some time before the year 1724, and seems to have 
been embraced in two patents, one known as the Minisink Angle, and 
the other a part of what is known as the John Evans patent. The latter 
tract was subsequently re-patented at dates commencing December 14, 
1724, and ending May 13, 1761. The actual settlement of the town did 
not occur until about the close of the period mentioned, and therefore, 
Wallkill was not settled as early as a number of the other towns in the 
coimty. 

It is only necessary to refer to the assessment roll of the town of Wall- 
kill of to-day to find many property owners whose names are the same 
as those of their ancestors who subdued the wilderness and made Wallkill 
one of the most attractive and wealthy towns in the county. When we 
mention such names as Bull, Harlow, Borland, Wisner, Houston, Car- 
penter, Reeve, Mills, Green, Wickham, Connor, Mapes and Horton, taken 
from the assessment rolls of to-day, we could almost imagine we were 
reading a roll call of the names of the sturdy pioneers who subdued the 
wilderness and caused the valleys of this town to blossom as the rose. 

Previous histories of this town and the numerous writings of other per- 




Samuel Wickham Mills. D.D. 



TOWN OV WALLKILL. 409 

sons have made all these facts so familiar that it would seem itlle to bur- 
den these pag-es with any repetition of the history of the early settlement 
of the town and its inhabitants. 

I'Vom the time of scttiemcnt. during the entire Colonial period to the 
Revolutionary War, there was little of moment that happened here. The 
settlements gradually progressed in different directions, but, as before 
stated, not as rapidly as in some other towns. During the Revolutionary 
War, a number of its citizens were with the army at various times, but 
the town, by its location, was far removed from the din and strife of 
participation in any events of the struggle ; no battles occurred within its 
limits, and it is not known that any organized bodies of the British or 
their allies ever set foot within its borders. From the close of the Revolu- 
tionary War until 1803, there was a steady growth in population, so that 
the assessment roll for that year contained 462 names of those who were 
assessed for either real or personal property, or both. 

On jMarch 29, 1799, the State Legislature passed an act for the gradual 
abolition of slavery, and a number of citizens recorded a formal act of 
freeing negroes held bv them. The first one of these seems to have been 
made in 1800, and is in the following form: 

"I do hereby certify that I have manumitted and set free my negro slave, Otis, 
as fully and amply as I am authorized by the act of the Legislature entitled, '.-\.n 
act for the gradual abolition of slavery,' passed the 29th day of March, 1799." 

"Given under my hand and seal this ist day of November, 1800." 

"Tabetha Borland." 

Similar acts of manunussion were entered by Jonath.an Smith, Stephen 
Smith, Henry 13. Wisner, John Wilkin, William Phillips and Israel 
\\ ickham, and it is a fact that the descendants of these people, bearing in 
many cases the identical names, w'ere the strongest opponents of slavery, 
and the most loyal supporters of the government during the Civil War. 

As early as 1828, the temperance question began to agitate the people 
of the town of Wallkill, possibly more thoroughly than it is doing in the 
present day, for the reason that, in 1824, there were just three times as 
many taverns (as they were called in that day) within the limits of the 
town as there are hotels at present ( 1908). Many of the questions in- 
volved in the temperance agitation of that time are the chief object of 
argiunent at present, and wc have only to quote a resolution passed at a 



4IO THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

meeting of the town of Wallkill, held in that year, to show this fact con- 
chisively : 

"Whereas, pauperism has increased in the town of Wallkill to an 
alarming' extent ; and whereas intemperance is one of the greatest pro- 
gressmg" causes, inasmuch as more than three-fourths of the paupers 
emanate directly or indirectl}' from that source, and whereas tippling- 
houses, dram-shops, and groceries have a direct tendency to increase the 
evils ; therefore, 

"Resolved, (as the sense of this town meeting), That the board of 
excise be requested to refuse granting licenses to those persons whose 
principal object is to retail intoxicating liquors and not having suitable 
accommodations for public entertainment." 

'Resolved, that the foregoing be entered on the records of said town 
and published in two newspapers printed in Goshen." 

"Dated Wallkill, this ist day of April, 1828." 

The town of Wallkill continued to grow steadily, without any change 
in territorial boundaries, until 1848, when the village of Middletown was 
incorporated within its limits, but, outside of certain local matters, such 
as schools, streets, police, and a few other minor matters, the village con- 
tinued tO' form a part of the towMi until the erection of the city of Middle- 
town, in 1889. All the town officers were elected to represent the village 
and town in all things, excepting the purely local matters, applicable 
especially to the village. 

IN THE CIVIL WAR. 

At the outbreak of the Civil War, in i86t, the fires of patriotism 
seemed to burn as brightly in the town of Wallkill and village of l^.Iid die- 
town as in any corresponding section of the country. Meetings were 
called, resolutions adopted, and steps immediately taken to form a com- 
pany for the defense of the Union. Aid societies were established by 
the women, supplies sent forward to suffering soldiers, and everything 
was done that love and patriotism could suggest for the care of those in 
the army and for the preservation of the Union. 

As near as can be estimated, Wallkill and Middletown combined sent 
to the front some 787 soldiers. Liberal bounties were paid to those who 



TOWN Ol" WALLKILL. 411 

went, either as volunteers or substitutes, and the best of care was taken 
of the famiHes of the absent soldiers. When we take int<j consideration 
the fact that, at the beginning- of the war, the population of the town of 
W'allkill and village of Middletown, combined, was less than 7,000, it 
will be seen that more than, 10 per cent, of the entire population proved 
its loyalty by going to the front, and the percentage who went and never 
returned was far greater than the proportion, in comparison to poinilatitm. 
That W'allkill j)rovcd its loyalty by devotion and blo(jfl, this record most 
ampl}- proves. 

in the year 1879, the citizens of Wallkill ami Middletown erected to the 
memor>' of the soldiers of Wallkill, a most graceful and impressive monu- 
ment. It was first located at the junction of North and Orchard streets, 
but subsequently removed to Thrall I'ark, on the corner of Wickham 
avenue and Grove street, which is a much better location than ilie 
original. Mrs. Thrall, who generously donated and bequeathed the 
money for the erection of Thrall Library and Thrall Hospital, also gave 
the city the land for Thrall Park, which is situated north of and adjcjining 
the hospital. 

HAMLETS. 

The present town of Wallkill contains no incorporated village, and only 
four hamlets, which might be dignified by the name of village, as follows : 
Circleville, Howells, .Scotchtown and Mechanicstown. The rest of the 
tow n is entirely devoted to agriculture, and, since the erection of the city 
of ^liddletown, has not shown any increase in population. Its famis are 
largely occupied by the owners, in many cases heirs and descendants of 
original and colonial possessors, and it possibly shows a less number of 
farms under rental than do many other towns in the county. 

CHURCHES. 

There are three churches and one chapel at present in the town of 
Wallkill. A Congregational church is located at Howells, and was in- 
corporated under its present name on Jul\ Ti. 1847. This church had 
existed for many years previous to this, under other names, and at dif- 
ferent locations. 

The Presbyterian church at .Scotchtown was organized some time 
before 1798. but the precise date seems to be imknown. The first official 
record tliat a church was rcirularlv orjranized seems to l)e in the minutes 



412 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the Presbytery of Hudson, when, on April 19, 1798, Jacob Mills and 
George Houston appeared as commissioners from the Presbyterian church 
in the town of Wallkill and requested that said church be taken under the 
care of the Presbytery, and that supplies might be appointed them. This 
request was granted and the services of the church continued, imder 
supplies, until June 30, 1803, when Rev. Methuselah Baldwin became 
pastor. Previous, however, to the appearance of the commissioners be- 
fore the Presbytery, a meeting had been held, on December 24, 1795, at the 
house of George Houston, apparently for the organization of a church, 
and at this meeting it was resolved that a subscription be opened for 
bu.ilding a meeting-house at the corner of the roads above the house of 
George Houston, and that the new congregation should be under the 
care of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. This church 
was erected, enclosed and painted in 1797, and thus remained, without 
plastering, pews, pulpit or stoves, until 1806, when it was finished, at a 
cost of $515. I'his building was used for about fifty-seven years, when 
it w'as succeeded by the present church edifice. The church was, for 
many years, a leading one in the Presbytery of Hudson, and is still doing 
active work. 

The CircIeviUe Presbyterian- Church was organized on January 4, 1842, 
and became a part of the Presbytery of Hudson. Its house of worship 
was erected in 1842, and a large part of the expense of such erection 
seems to have been contributed by donations in the way of labor, timber, 
lumber and mason work. The land, consisting of five acres, was donated 
by Samuel Bull, who, in addition to his gift of land, contributed much in 
labor, material and money, and to him the community is largely indebted 
for benefits derived from this church through its past years and at the 
present time. 

The chapel previously referred to was erected near Rockville through 
the liberalitv of Robert A. Harrat and his neighbors in the immediate 
vicinity, and is used for Sunday-schools and special church services by 
clergymen from any denomination who desire to preach within its walls. 

RAILROADS. 

Wallkill has excellent railroad facilities. The Erie runs through from 
Howells Depot, passing out at its southern border. The Ontario 



'i^-^ 



'ion be 



TOWN Ol" WALLKILI.. 413 

^; Western conies in at the northwesterly end of the town, running 
thence in a general southeasterly direction to the city of Middletown, 
thence easterly through the town of Wallkill, passing out into the town of 
Hamptonburgh near Stony Ford. The Middjetown & Crawford branch 
diverges from the Ontario & Western Railroad about two miles north ot 
Middletown, passes through the town in a northeasterly direction to the 
town of Crawford near BuUville and runs .thence to fine liush. The 
Susquehanna «S: Western Railroad passes into the town from the south- 
erly border of the city of Middletowai and runs in a southwesterly direc- 
tion in tlie town of Wawayanda. In addition to the above, the Erie & 
Jersey Railroad Company is now building a low-grade road which enters 
the town near Hov.-ells and runs in a general easterly direction through 
the town, passing about one mile north of the city of Middletown, thence 
leaving the town and passing into the town of Hamptonburgh in the 
vicinity of .Stony Ford. 

There is also a trolley line owned by the Wallkill Transit Company, 
which is operated in the city of ^Middletown and extends from the citv. 
through the town of Wallkill, to the town of Goshen, and thence to the 
village of Goshen. 

An example of the enterprise of the tov.-n of Wallkill was manifested 
when the question of raising money for the construction of the Xew 
York & Oswego Midland Railroad came up in 1867. Its citizens, under 
the wise leadership and giiided by the excellent judgment of Senator 
Henry R. Low, Captain James N. Pronk, Elislia P. Wheeler, William J. 
Groo, and others, was induced to bond the town for the sum of three 
hundred thousand dollars and subscribe to the stock of the new road for 
that amount. The bonds were issued for a period of twenty years, with 
interest at the rate of seven per cent, per annum, payable semi-annually, 
with a provision that after ten years an annual sinking fund of five per 
cent, of the total issue of bonds should be raised. Within a few years 
the Xew York & Oswego Midland Railroad Company went into the hands 
of a receiver, and its stock became comparatively worthless. The three- 
hundred thousand dollars of stock owned by the town was sold for 
$i5,ocxD. When the bonds matured in 1888. William P.. Royce, the sole 
railroad commissioner, had accumulated from the sinking fund, sale of 
stock, interest and other sources, the sum of $180,000. with which bonds 
to tiiat amount were paid. To provide for the payment of the balance of 



414 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

said bonds, amounting to $120,000, the railroad commissioner issued, 
under authority of law, bonds to that amount, payable in installments, 
the last of said bonds maturing- on April i, 1907, with interest payable 
semi-annually, at the rate of three and one-half per cent, per annum. As 
provided by the bonds, the last installment of principal and interest was 
paid .A.pril i, IQO/, the town and city of Middletovvn having paid the 
whole of said principal sum by direct tax, excepting the $15,000 for which 
the stock was sold. The New York, Ontario & Western Railway Com- 
pany was organized and took over the property of the old New York & 
Oswego Midland Railroad ("ompany. As a result of the construction of 
this road, to which the town of Wallkill and city of Middletown have con- 
tributed so largely, the railroad shops were located at Middletown, which 
brought a very large infiux to the population of the town and city, and 
added largely to their taxable value. It also resulted in building the road 
from Middletown to Cornwall, and the extension of what was known as 
the Middletown, Unionville and Water Gap Railroad through to New 
York under the original name of the New Jersey Midland Railroad, 
which subsequently became the New York. Susquehanna & Western 
Railroad, thus giving Middletown three direct lines of railroad to New 
York City, and making northern and western communications, which 
largely added to its transportation facilities. 

HIGHWAYS. 

The highways of the town of Wallkill are in fair condition, and are 
maintained under the money system. The town has a portion of three 
State roads ; one branching off from the Middletown-Bloomingburg 
plank road, about three miles north of Middletown, and running in a 
general northerly direction to the town line of Crawford and thence to the 
village of Pine Bush. Another road starts from the southern corporate 
limits of the city of Middletown and runs in a southerly direction to the 
town line of Wawayanda, and thence to the village of Goshen. This road 
branches off in a southwesterly direction in the town of Wawayanda and 
extends to Unionville, and by another branch is being extended to Port 
Jervis. Another State road, known as the Middletown-Cuddebackville 
road, starts from the northwesterly line of the city of Middletown and 
runs through the town to the line of the town of Mount Hope, thence 



TOWN OF WALLKILL. 413 

through Mount Hope and Deer Park to Cuddebackville. Under existing 
laws the State roatls are in the first instance maintainc<l under direction 
of and at the expense of the State. 

SCHOOLS. 

The town of W'allkill has seventeen school districts, in which are main- 
tained the usual form of district schools under the State law. These arc 
being gradually improved under the efficient system of State supervision, 
but are not yet at the standard to which they should be raised. 

MIDDLETOWN. 

The precise time when the first settlement was made in this village is 
uncertain, though it is believed to have been shortly after the erection 
of the town. John Green purchased some land of DeLancey, a patentee 
under the crown of Great Britain, and that purchase included land in 
the southern part of the village and the ground where the First Congre- 
gational church now stands. Mr. Green donated the lot for the purpose 
of having a house of worship erected. When the citizens assembled to 
put up the frame of the old Congregational church, it was concluded that 
the locality should have a name. "What shall it be? There is Dolsontown 
on the south, Goshen on the east, Scotchtown on the north, and a locality 
not defined, on the west, called Shawangunk. We will call it Middle- 
town, it being the center." In 1829, the name of the village was changed 
to South Middletown to prevent confusion in the transmission of mail 
matter, there being another place styled "Middletown" north of Xew- 
burgh, but in 1849 the prefix of "South" was left oflf. 

The Minisink road which passes through the city of Middletown is 
mentioned by a ]\Ir. Clinton, a surveyor employed by the owner of lot 
No. 35 of the Minisink Angle, as early as 1742, and the second store in 
^^iddlctown was started by Isaiah \'ail at a place called Monhagen. 
opposite the white oak bridge on the old ]\[inisink road, near the westerly 
liiuits of the present cit\- of ]\Iiddletown. Tlie first store in Middletown 
was kept by Abel Woodhull, previous to the place being called Middle- 
town. 

The western portion of Middletown was included in lot No. 36 in the 
Minisink Angle, owned by DeLancey, and as he espoused the Royalist 
cause his land, except what was sold to Mr. Green before the Rcvolu- 



4i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

tion, was confiscated by the State of New York. Three appraisers were 
appointed by the State to put a value on the land, two of whom were 
Israel Wickham and Henry Wisner. It is stated that an earnest debate 
occurred on the subject of valuation, whether to call it six shillings or a 
dollar per acre. Mr. Wickham insisted that it would never be w^orth a 
dollar, so it was put down at six shillings an acre. The land confiscated 
takes in the western portion of the village and present city, and includes 
the real estate formerly owned by John B. Han ford, Henry Little and 
George Houston. Part of this land could not now be bought for $10,000 
an acre. 

The New York & Erie Railroad seems to have been built on the install- 
ment plan in the county of Orange ; first to Monroe, then to Chester, then 
to Goshen, and finally by large contributions from the people of Middle- 
town, it was extended to that place. The building of this road seemed to 
give an impetus to the business of the village and induced manufacturers 
to locate there, which soon made it one of the most flourishing villages 
in southern New York. 

The actual incorporation of the village did not occur until April 7, 1848, 
when the preliminary proceedings in regard to the incorporation were 
approved by Judge D. W. Bates. The first president of the village was 
Stacey Beakes, and associated with him as trustees were Coe Dill, Will- 
iam Hoyt, Israel Hoyt, Israel O. Beattie and Daniel C. Dusenberry. John 
B. Friend was clerk. Of the above named trustees, Daniel C. Dusenberry 
is still living ( 190S). 

The growth of Middletown has always been gradual, and it has never 
been what might be called a "boom town." In 1807 the population was 
forty-five; in 1838 it had increased to 433; in 1848, at the time of its 
incorporation, it had increased to 1,360; and in 1857, to 2,190. At the 
time of its incorporation as a city, in 1888. its population had increased to 
11,977, and at the close of 1907 it was about 16,000. 

The post-office in the village of Middletown was first established on 
the 22nd of October, i8t6. Stacey Beakes was appointed the first post- 
master and held the office for about ten years. The first quarter's re- 
ceipts in 1817, as rendered by the postmaster, were $0.69; in 1826, the 
receipts had risen to $16.12 a quarter; and in 1854, to $257.79. The 
annual receipts of the Middletown post-office are now upwards of 
$50,000. 




Charles H. Smith. 



TOWN OF WALLKILL. 417 

The citizens of Micklletowii were always amljitious for its g-rowth, and 
in all that was done, the future as well as the present, interests of the 
village were carefully looked after. Manufacturers were induced to lo- 
cate there, and the village, and afterward the city, has always been recog- 
nized as a manufacturing center Tor this part of the State. Some of the 
largest manufactories in the old village of Middletown were the Mon- 
hagen Saw \\'orks. Eagle File Works, Matthews Brothers' Carpet Bag 
Factory. Draper's Hat Factory, Babcock's Hat Works, and a large tan- 
nery, which was afterward merged in the leather manufactory of Howell- 
Hlnchman Company. As before mentioned, the Xew York. Ontario & 
Western Raihvav Company located its shops here, and from that time, the 
village and citv have had a steady growth. 

CHURCHES. 

Aliddletown as a village and city has always been well supplied with 
churches. 

The first, the Congregational Church, was organized June 10. 1785. and 
incorporated August 12, 1786, and so far as organization and incorpora- 
tion are concerned, it is the oldest cliurch in Middletown. 

The first Presbyterian Church of Middletown. as such, was organized 
March 31, 1828. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Middletown elifected a legal or- 
ganization on July II, 1838. 

Grace Episcopal Church was incorporated on l-'ebruary 18. 1845. 

The first Baptist Church filed its certificate of incorporation October 

28, 1849. 

The Second Presbyterian Cliurch (now Westminster church) was in- 
corporated December 5, 1854. 

The Primitive Baptist Church of Middletown was incorporated May 

29. 1 871. 

The Africa)! MetJwdist Episcopal Zion Church was incorpnrate<l \o- 
vember 20. 1861. 
St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Churcli was established in 1866. 
Calvary Baptist Church was incori)orated in 1902. 
Xorth Congregational Church was incorporated in iS>C)0. 
Christ Church (l^niversalist"^ was incorporated in 1897. 



4i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church (German) was incorporated 
in 1897. 

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church was incorporated in 1875. 

Faith Mission was incorporated in 1889. 

The Christian Science Church was incorporated in 1903. 

It will be seen from the above that the churches of Middletown average 
one to every 1,000 people of the present population. 

SCHOOLS. 

The school system of Middletown was originated by the holding of a 
meeting April 6, 1813, to take steps to comply with the statute of 1812, 
for the organization of the common school system of the State. The 
first commissioners elected were William Hurtin, Jacob Dunning and 
Benjamin Woodward. In 1844 a system of supervision by town super- 
intendents was inaugurated. Previous to that several citizens were se- 
lected who decided upon the qualifications of the teacher. John G. Wilkin, 
afterward county judge of Orange County, was the first town superin- 
tendent of Wallkill, which included the village of Middletown. About the 
year 1856 a law was passed providing for the election of superintendents 
for assembly districts, thus doing away with the town system, and this 
system has ever since been continued. 

On the 30th of January, 1841, a meeting was held to initiate the work 
of founding Wallkill Academy. It was started as a private enterprise, 
^tock to the amount of $3,656.75 was subscribed by 115 stockholders, the 
shares being $5.00 each. Application was made to the Legislature for an 
act of incorporation, which was passed in May, 1841. The building was 
completed in October, 1842, and soon thereafter school sessions were 
opened, the first teacher being Rev. Phineas Robinson, who remained in 
charge for two years. For a number of years Wallkill Academy was 
continued under the plan of its first incorporation, but subsequently 
passed over to the village of Middletown as a part of its school system. 
The school system of the village of Middletown was always well man- 
aged and excellent results were attained. This system was afterward 
merged in the city school system upon the incorporation of the city of 
Middletown in 1888. 

The management is now under a board of education consisting of nine 



TOWN OF WALLKILL. 410 

members, with superintendent of schools. There are now eight schools in 
the educational system of Middletown. The high school was erected on 
the site formerly occupied by the W'allkill Academy, and is a very impos- 
ing building with all modern facilities and conveniences. It emjjloys 
thirteen teachers in the academic department, and eight in the grammar 
grades. The seven primary schools are located in various parts of the 
city, so as to accommodate the pupils, but upon graduation in the primary 
grades all of the pupils are promoted to the high school in its various 
grades. 

The free public library of !Middlelown. known as the Thrall Library 
Building, is architecturally an ornament to the city, and is fitted up in 
the most modern style for library purposes. The lot was formerly used 
as a location for the village school. Mrs. S. ]\Iaretta Thrall left a legacy 
of $30,000 to the city, with which the library was built. Mrs. Thrall, by 
her liberality, provided Middletown with a library of which its citizens 
are justly proud, and erected for herself a monument in our city and in 
the hearts of its people which will be as enduring as time. The library at 
present contains 10.500 volumes. The legacy bequeathed by Mrs. Thrall 
was to be used exclusively for the building, and was so used. 

CII.VRITABLE AND BEXEVOLEXT ORGAXIZATIOXS. 

In the vear 1880, the matter of establishing a Children's Home 
for Orange County was brought up in the board of super- 
visors. A committee, consisting of the Hon. William H. Clark. Selah 
E. Strong and William B. Royce. was appointed to take the matter under 
consideration and report. After a careful investigation and examination 
of a large number of properties, the committee reported that in its judg- 
ment the property known as the Israel O. Beattie property in the village 
of Middletown was better adapted for the purpose than any other prop- 
erty that had been brought to the notice of the committee. The property, 
at the time, was owned by the Mutual Life Insurance Company of the 
city of Xew York, and after negotiations, a price was fixed by the com- 
pany at $8,000. The price was approved by the board and the committee 
was ordered to purchase the pro]ierty. which was subsequently done. The 
sum of $2,000 was appropriated for the use of the committee in making 
such nccessarv repairs and changc> a- might he deemed necessary to fit 



420 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the property for immediate use. The committee, having completed its 
duties, reported to the board on the 21st of November, 1881, that its 
work was completed and that there had been expended $9,910.05, leaving 
a balance of $89.95 i^ the hands of the committee. 

Previous to the making of this report, the property had been turned 
over to the county superintendent of the poor, and it was formally opened 
on February 7, 1881. On the first day of January, 1882, forty-four chil- 
dren were being cared for in the home. This number has fluctuated dur- 
ing the intervening years, sometimes the number of children being as low 
as sixteen, and at other times approximating the original number reported. 

The Orange County Home for Aged Women is located at No. 27 South 
street, in the city of Middletown, and like the Children's Home, is not 
limited to the city of Middletown with regard to the territory from which 
its inmates are received. It was incorporated in 1884, the idea emanating 
from the fertile brain of Dr. Julia E. Bradner. The home now has be- 
come a well-known institution, not only in the city of Middletown, but 
in the county of Orange. 

It is difficult to realize that Thrall Hospital, so much an integral part 
of the civic life of Middletown to-day, was not dreamed of a quarter of a 
century since. It is not an easy matter to make plain to the lay mind 
just what is behind the bald statistic, "One typhoid — discharged." 
Statistics may number the bandages and weigh out the drugs, but they 
never take reckoning of the anxieties, the heartaches, that broad utili- 
tarianism which under the name of the Middletown Hospital Association 
began its beneficent work. 

It was twenty years ago last November ( 1907) that Dr. Julia E. 
Bradner called together, at her residence, a few of the women of Mid- 
dletown to discuss the project of having a hospital in their own home 
town. 

At the first informal meeting in November, 1887, nine women, led on 
by the indomitable spirit of Dr. Julia E. Bradner, voted to have a charter 
legally drawn and to meet again at her home, on Orchard street, on the 
22nd of November. 

The charter was presented at this second meeting and signed before 
Notary Henry W. Wiggins by the following women : Julia E. Bradner, 
president; Ella S. Hanford, first vice-president; Lutie M. Clemson, sec- 
ond vice-president; Clara S. Finn, treasurer; Harriet L. Clark, secretary; 




Charles A. Evans. 



TOWN OI- WALLKILL. ' 421 

Sarah" (Jrr Sliter. Jennie 1£. Triur. l-'rances W. Wilcox. IHorence 
Horton. 

The organization effected on tliis November day and incorporated De- 
cember 6, of the same year, was named "The Middletown Hospital Asso- 
ciation," its object "to build and maintain a hosjiital in the village of Mid- 
dletown." 

The day of the second meeting was big in history, for not only was 
the matter of the charter settled, but an advisory board of physicians was 
elected, consisting of William E. Eager, M.D.; William H. Dorrance, 
M.D. ; Selden H. Talcott, :\r.D. ; I'.urke Pillsbury. M.D. ; and Ira S. 
Eradner, M.D. — all of wdiom have passed away. 

In the spring of 1891, seeing the need and the opportunity to supply 
that need, Mrs. S. Maretta Thrall gave to the association the lot on the 
south side of what is now Thrall Park. Plans were made for a building 
to cost over $13,000, but their execution w^ould have been put off in- 
definitely had not Mrs. Thrall come forward with a gift of money suffi- 
cient to cover the cost of the planned building, making, with the estimated 
value of the lot, a total gift of over $16,000. Work on the foundation 
was begun immediately. 

The association, which in various ways, during the four years which 
elapsed after the foundation was laid, had raised $5,000, now used that 
amount to furnish and equip the building in a practical and up-to-date 
manner. On the tenth day of ^lay, one year after the gift of the lot, the 
hospital, having a capacity of twenty-six beds, was thrown open for the 
reception of patients. 

MIDDLETOWN STATE HOMEOPATHIC HOSl'IT.M.. 

Nearly forty years ago. or, to be exact, in 1869. several of the citizens 
of what was then the village of ]\Iiddletown decided that a hospital for the 
insane was needed in this vicinity. Funds were collected and a farm was 
purchased on the western border of the village for a site for an asylum, 
as such institutions were then called. Dr. George F. Foote endeavored to 
raise money by subscription for a private asylum. To this end $75,000 
were subscribed, the amount expended for a site and to build part of the 
institution, all of which was finally accepted by the commonwealth as a 
free-will offering from a comparatively few generous subscribers. 

The first appropriation by the State for the institution was made in 



422 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1870. The original board of trustees numbered twenty-one, ap- 
pointed by the Governor. The first superintendent, Dr. Foote, having 
resigned, Dr. Henry R. Stiles was appointed in his stead. He served 
until February 9, 1877, and then resigned. He was succeeded by the late 
Selden H. Talcott, who served until his death in 1902, when the present 
incumbent, Dr. Maurice C. Ashley, was appointed to succeed him, and is 
now in charge of the institution. 

Among the early trustees, who were residents of Orange County, may 
be recalled the well-known names of Daniel Thompson, John G. Wilin, 
Moses D. Stivers, James G. Graham, Henry R. Low, Elisha P. Wheeler, 
Dr. Joshua A. Draper, James B. Hulse, James H. Norton, Nathaniel W. 
Vail, and Uzal T. Hayes. 

The hospital was incorporated in 1869, opened for the reception of 
patients on the 20th of April, 1874, and the first patient was admitted 
May 7, 1874. 

To give an idea of the present magnitude of this great public charity, 
it seems fitting that a few figures should go on record where they will be 
permanently preserved. 

The farm and grounds comprise nearly 300 acres, on which there are 
thirty buildings; the value of the real and personal property is over 
$1,500,000; the present annual expenses for all purposes, excepting the 
new building, are about $245,000, of which nearly $60,000 are received 
from private and reimbursing patients; about $110,000 is required for 
salaries and wages. Since the opening of the institution, over 7,000 
patients have been received and treated. Of this number 2,600 have been 
discharged recovered and returned to their homes and to society, and 
900 others have been sufficiently restored or improved to enable them to 
return to their families. The number of patients under treatment at the 
present time is 1,350. 

The present normal capacity of the hospital for patients is 1,222. 
Buildings are now under construction for about 550 more patients and 
the necessary employees, making a total capacity for 1,850 patients and 
450 employees. 

The hospital district comprises Orange, Sullivan, Ulster and Rockland 
Counties, but those desiring homeopathic treatment are received from 
any part of the State. 

During all the years, the hospital has been conducted upon homeo- 



TOWN OF W.XLLKITJ.. 423 

pathic principles, following strictly the practice and principles of homeo- 
pathy in the selection of medicines and treatment of patients. This is 
a compliance with the law under which the hospital was first incorpo- 
rated, and the results, in all respects, would seem to warrant the coniinu- 
ance of the present form of treatment and management. 

In compliance with the law, a training school for nurses and attendants 
has been established and maintained for some years with the most satis- 
factory results. 

A few years since all the asylums were placed under State control, 
and a board of local managers with modified duties took the place of the 
old boards of trustees. 

The board of managers of the asylum, as at present constituted, con- 
sists of William H. Rogers of Middletown, X. Y., president; Ira L. Case, 
of ]\Iiddletown, N. Y., secretary; Xewbold Morris, of New York Citv, 
N. Y., Miss Alice Larkin, New York City ; Mrs. Harriet A. Dillingham, 
Xew York City ; George B. Adams, Middletown, X. Y. ; and James B. 
Carson, Middletown, N. Y. The attorney for the hospital is William B. 
Royce, of Middletown, N. Y. 

^^scFLLA^■EOl•.s. 

The city of Miildletown is located on the I'>ie, the Xew York, On- 
tario & Western and the Susquehanna & Western railroads, about sixty- 
seven miles from Xew York City, and is the legal successor of the 
village of ]\Iiddletown, in the county of Orange. The city was incor- 
porated by an act of the Legislature of the State of Xew York, known 
as Chapter 535 of the Laws of 1888. and John E. Iseman became its 
first mayor. The city, as now incorporated, contains 2,330^^2 acres. 

The city is divided into four wards. The general city officers are: A 
Mayor, Robert Lawrence, now holding the office ; president of the com- 
mon council, two aldermen from each ward, city clerk and collector, city 
treasurer, corporation counsel, city engineer and surveyor, superintendent 
of streets, recorder, two justices of the peace, and three assessors. Each 
ward also elects one supervisor, the duties of who^i' office are the same as 
those of town supervisors. 

Middletown has a most excellent and efficient fire dei»artmcp.t, of which 
Charles Higham is chief. The force, as now organized, consists of one 
hook and ladder company, truck drawn by hor.ses ; five hose companies. 



424 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

two of them having chemical wagons drawn by horses ; one engme com- 
pany, new steamer drawn by horses. The city has a complete system of 
electric fire alarms, with forty-two boxes in service. 

Middletown has about forty-seven regularly organized charitable, be- 
nevolent, fraternal and social organizations and clubs, exclusive of labor- 
organizations, societies and organizations connected with its railroads. 
Of the latter there are nine, and of the labor organizations, twenty. 

A fine State armory is located here, which is the headquarters of the 
First Battalion, First Regiment, N. G. N. Y., A. E. Mclntyre, Major, 
commanding. This armory is also the home of Company I (24th Separate 
Company), First Regiment, N. G. N. Y., of which Abraham L. Decker is 
captain. 

There are two Grand Army Posts in Middletown, viz : General Lyon 
Post, No. 266; Captain William A. Jackson Post, No. 301. 

Middletown lias a very efficient Business Men's Associaton, .which was 
mcorporated November 20, 1902. 

The banking interests of Middletown are represented by the following 
banks : First National Bank, capital $100,000 ; Merchants' National Bank, 
capital $100,000; Orange County Trust Company, capital $100,000; and 
the Middletown Savings Bank. These institutions are all in a healthy and 
prosperous condition and have, in the aggregate, deposits amounting to 
about the sum of $8,000,000. 

There are, in addition to the above, thirty-five incorporated companies 
in Middletown, representing manufacturing, mercantile, mechanical and 
financial enterprises. The largest employers of labor are the Borden's 
Condensed Milk Company, the New York, Ontario & Western Railway 
Company shops, Howell-Hinchman Company, and the Union Hat Com- 
pany. 

The cemetery grounds of the Hillside Cemetery Corporation, formerly 
Hillside Cemetery Association, are located in the southwest part of the 
city. The cemetery had many natural advantages from contour of the 
land, virgin forests and running streams. To these have been added about 
twelve miles of macadamized roads and drives, with gracefully curving 
paths and winding walks. A great deal of shrubbery and many flow- 
ering plants have been set out and in the summer the scene is a most 
lovely one. Surely Hillside Cemetery is a beautiful resting place for the 
dead. 




Samuel C. Howell. 



TOWN OF WALLKILL. 425 

Middletown has a most complete water system supplie*! by three reser- 
voirs, located in the towns of Wallkill and Mount Hope, and named re- 
spectively, Monhagen. Hi<;hland and Shawans^amk. All water for do- 
mestic use is thoroughly filtered before being conveyed to the city. 

The city has several miles of well paved streel>. and is lighted l)y both 
gas and electricity. 

The telephone system consists of two com])anies. The Orange County 
Telephone Company has about 1,600 telei)hones in use, and also does the 
long-distance business in the city for the Hudson River Telephone Com- 
pany. The Middletown Telephone Company has about a score of sub- 
scribers in the city. It also has connection with several outside inflepeml- 
ent companies. 

With its location, financial ability, numerous business enterprises, its 
many social, benevolent, charitable and religious associations and institu- 
tions, its splendid school system, and with the enterprise, energy and 
business ability of its citizens, the Middletown of to-day is onlv a begin- 
ning of the greater INIiddletown which will occupy this central pari of 
Orange County in the years to come. 

To sum up the history of the town of Wallkill were an easy task, and 
so saying is to speak in the highest praise of the town. Its course has 
been peaceful, quiet, serene; its politics have never been infected by 
scandal and corruption 5 the red glare of warfare — aborignal or other- 
wise — has not shone athwart its pages ; it has been a history in which the 
husbandman has dominated the scene and has been the central actor. 
Agriculture has been the mainstay of a people pious and Gorl-fearing. the 
descendants of those sturdy New England and Long Island ancestors, 
who built the meeting-house and the school as soon as ever the settlement 
was made. 

We dwellers in the Wallkill of to-day have every reason to be thank- 
ful that our history has been what it has; if it has lacked romance or 
excitement, it has likewise abounded in a peace that has meant prosperity. 

Of late years the flood of immigration has sent its waves to our tliresh- 
olds. and we find in our villages, on our farms, and toiling along our 
railroads the children of Italy, of Hungary, of Austria, of Russia and the 
more remote East. What the picture will be a century hence, what 
sort of an amalgamation will have taken place, we cannot foresee. Cer- 
tain it is that, if he is to remain with us. we must educate the alien, teach 



426 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

him our ways, prepare him for citizenship, and do all we can for him 
morally and intellectually, and that will surely involve amalgamation. At 
any rate, this is a force that is bound to change our town's history, in 
the next hundred years, from anything that has gone before it. We 
should face the problem — meet it with those most forcible of weapons, 
Education and Law. 

For the rest, acting the role of prophet is not difficult. Wallkill's 
lines have been cast in pleasant places and will probably so continue to 
be cast. We anticipate nothing marvelous, look forward to naught phe- 
nomenal, expect no revolutions. Our townspeople will pursue the even 
tenor of their way on their pleasant farms and in their quiet villages ; 
they will know neither the bleak necessities of poverty nor the anxieties 
of extreme wealth ; all will be medium, which is the happiest state of all. 
We are content with that. Our Wallkill is well beloved ; we would not 
trade it for anything different or more brilliant ; we would have it as it has 
been, not meaning stagnation, of course, yet not longing for the "boom" 
which newer and less firmly established and less well-grounded communi- 
ties are forever invoking. 

Wallkill, in many ways, realizes one's ideal of a rural township — well 
governed, knowing neither financial extreme, and with a people contented, 
and at peace. 




■■'y!^/,,^s £.£- 



IL^L^C^ 



T 




TOWN OF WARWICK. 4-'7 

CHAPTER XXIX. 
TOWN OF WA1>IW1LK. 

By Ferdinand V. S.anford. 

THE derivation of Warwick, according to Mr. Thomas Kemp, mayor 
of \\'arvvick-, England, who has written a "Flistory of Warwick 
and Its People," is from the Saxon "Wara" which in that tongiie 
signifies inhabitants, and "wic" — a town or castle, or hamlet, a bank or 
crook of a river. So that Warawic. or Warwick, signifies no more than 
the inhabitants of the town or castle upon the bank of the river. Other 
Saxon forms of the name found are \\'crhica. \\\vrengcwyk, Woerinc- 
wic, and Wering-wic. 

The history of our Warwick from the earliest times has been written 
l)v Eager and Ruttenber in their publicatons — that of the last-named 
writer coming down to the }ear i8So. 

EARLY SETTLE.MEXT. 

The present sketch is intended rather to supplement these earlier ac- 
counts than to re-write all of the past history, by recording principally 
the events which have occurred since 1880. 

The town or township of Warwick was erected from the precinct of 
Goshen in 1788. and derived its name from the plantation 01 lienjamin 
Aske, one of the orignal grantees of the Wawayanda patent. Upon the 
sub-division of the patent among twelve patentees, Aske's share was a 
tract nearly in the form of a parallelogram, which extended from Wick- 
ham's or Clark's Lake, on the northeast, to the farm now owned by 
Townsend W. San ford, on the southwest, with an average width of a 
mile, and containing 2.200 acres of land. Aske named this tract. "War- 
wick." from which fact it is supposed that he came from W^arwickshire, 
England. The date of the Wawayanda patent is March 5. 1702- 1703, 
which was the peculiar style of writing year <late a couple c»f centuries 
;igo. The docunxMit is sigucd by the twelve chiefs, all making their mark 
in the presence of witne«>^es. one of them Chuckhass, the chief who lived 



428 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in this town and for whom Chuck's Hill is named. This patent 
embraced at that time practically all of Orange County as it existed in 
1703. 

By deed dated February 28, 1719, Aske sold to Lawrence Decker, yeo- 
man, for £50, 100 acres, in the deed described as "being part of the 2.200 
acres of land, called Warwick," showing that previous to that date Aske 
had bestowed the name of Warwick upon his tract. Later deeds to 
Thomas Blaine and Thomas DeKay contain similar recitals. 

The pioneers of Warwick were principally English families who came 
hither from Long Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Among them 
we find the names of Armstrong, Baird, Benedict, Blaine, Bradner, Burt, 
DeKay, Decker, Demarest, Ketchum, Knapp, McCambley, Post, Roe, 
Sayer, Sly, Sanford, Welling, Wheeler, Wisner, Wood and Van Duzer. 
Alost of these settlers have left descendants who still live in the town or 
village. 

During the Revolution there were a few Tories near Warwick, but 
the majority of the people were loyal to the country of their adoption, anl 
many of them enlisted for service. 

John Hathorn, colonel of the Warwick and Florida regiment, Captains 
Charles Beardsley, John Minthorn. Henry Wisner, Jr., Abram Dolson, 
Jr., John Norman, Henry Townsend. Nathaniel Elmer, John Saver ; Lieu- 
tenants Richard Welling. Samuel Lobdell, Nathaniel Ketchum, George 
Vance, Peter Bartholf, Matthew Dolson, John Hopper, John DeBow, 
Anthony Finn, John Popino, Jr., Richard Bailey, John Kennedy, John 
Wood, and many others rendered valuable services during the Revo- 
lution. 

While New York City was in the hands of the British, the most trav- 
eled road between the Hudson River and the Delaware ran through War- 
wick. It is said that Washington passed through Warwick twice during 
the war, and was entertained by Colonel Hathorn at the Pierson E. San- 
ford stone house near the village, on one of these occasions, at least. 

For some time after the Revolution there were not more than thirty 
houses in the village. In 1765 Daniel Burt built the shingle house, now 
owned by Mrs. Sallie A. F. Servin, the oldest house in the village. In 
T766 Francis Baird built the stone house now owned by William B. 
Sayer, which was at one time used as a tavern, and in some of the old 
maps Warwick is called "Baird's Tavern." 




James W. Knapp. 



TOWN OI- WARWICK. 429 

nEVEf.OrMF.NT. 

The town of Warwick is the largest in area of any of tlic towns of 
the county, containing 61,763 acres, or nearly double that of any of the 
others, and being a little more than one-eighth of the area of the whole 
county. Its assessed valuation of real and personal property in 1906, was 
$2,863,010. The taxes levied upon that valuation for last year were 
$22,745.12. Population according to State census of 1905 was 6,691. 

Within the last generation the tow^n has greatly improved its public 
highways and bridges. With the advent of the bicycle, automobile and 
other motor vehicles, the demand for better road facilities has been felt, 
and this demand has been and is now being supplied. Under the State 
law jiroviding for the ciMistruction and improvement of the highways 
at the joint expense of the State and county, the sum of $15,387.40 has 
been expended by the county, and the additional sum of $1,602.60 by 
ihe State, up to the year 1905, for acquisition of rights of way, engineer- 
ing and cost of construction of 4.67 miles of road from Florida to War- 
wick, known as Road Xo. 93. .so that under the good roads law (Chap. 
115. Laws 1898) we have nearly five miles of finished work done. Plans 
have also been approved by the coimty and its share of the cost appro- 
priated for the building of 6.92 miles of road from Warwick to Green- 
wood Lake at a total estimated cost of $54,250. which will undoubtedly 
be built as soon as the Legislature makes appropriation for the State's 
share of the cost. 

Since 10^83 the town has constructed several new iron bridges, viz: 
on the east arm of Greenwood Lake, at Main, South, Lake. Elm and 
Bank streets in the village of W^arwick ; also at Florida. Kimball's Point, 
Garners' Lsland across the Pochuck Creek, one between the towns of 
Goshen and W^arw'ick, and one betv.'een the towns of Minisink and War- 
wick ; also at Beiivale and Xew Milforrl. these substantial structures 
replacing the old wooden bridges of the past. An elevated bridge across 
the tracks of the Lehigh and Hudson River Railway Company was con- 
-trucled to avoid the grade cros.sing at Stone Piridge at the joint expense 
"f the railway company and the town, costing nearly $8,000. of which 
the town's sliare was one-c|uartcr of the whole cost, made a most desirable 
improvement in this ])art of the town. 

The town constructed a new road alone the east side of Greenwood 



430 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Lake in 1889, the land being donated by Alexander Brandon, trustee, 
and others, to the town, and the latter building the same at a cost of over 
$7,000. This improvement opens up a large tract of land for building 
purposes, the road extending to State line of New^ York and New Jersey. 

In 1902, by a vote of the taxpayers, a change was made in the manner 
of working the highways from the labor to the money system. Under the 
old system something over 5,000 days would be assessed for labor, but a 
considerable portion would never be worked and in consequence our 
highways would suffer. Under the present method the sum of $5,593 
was expended by the town in 1906, in cash upon our highways, and the 
additional sum of $2,000 State aid, with uniformly better results every- 
where. 

The total mileage of public roads is nearly 200 in the town, and the 
sum of $25 per mile was expended upon every mile in that year and ad- 
ditional sums of $10 per mile upon those roads more frequently traveled. 

This amount was for all the road districts outside of the incorporated 
village of Warwick, which is a separate road district maintained by the 
corporation. The valuation for 1907 was $1 of tax for every $300 of as- 
sessed value. 

Town boards of health have been maintained since 1881 and consist of 
the supervisor, town clerk, justices of the peace, a citizen member and a 
physician, known as the health officer. Rules and regulations governing 
the proper observance of health are published each year by this offtcial 
body, and prompt action taken in case of any outbreak of disease, and 
measures instituted to control and prevent the spread of the same. As a 
result of the labors of these organizations and those in the incorporated 
villages of our towns, the public health has been safeguarded, and no 
serious epidemics have been experienced. 

The town has seventeen separate school districts, where the common 
school is maintained, and two union free schools at Florida and War- 
wick, under the supervision of the Regents of the University at Albany. 
In these latter schools our young people are graduated, prepared for the 
different walks of life, and many entering colleges to prosecute their 
studies further for the learned professions. Under the present State law 
education is compulsory, between the ages of eight and sixteen, and 
parents, guardians and employers detaining the child between those ages 
are liable to fine and imprisonment. 



TOWX OF WAKWICK. 431 

Under the compulsory cducalimi law our lowu api)(jint>- aiuiually lor 
each of the school districts an officer known as the truant officer, wIkjsc 
duty it is to look after the interests of those who will not look after 
their own, and compel all children within the school age to be in attend- 
ance upon the public school during the required period. The State appor- 
tionment of school funds for 1907 for the town was $4,300. 

'■'he town has six election or polling places, known as Districts Xo>. 
I, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. No. i mcludes the voters in the .\mity and Pine I>lan(l 
district. No. 2, those in Florida and vicinity; Nos. 3, 4 and 5, the village 
of Warwick, Bellvale and New Milford; Xo. 6. Greenwood Lake and 
Sterling. The total vote polled for (lovernor in the town in 190O was 
1,218. 

The principal farm products are dairying, onions, peaches, apples, hay 
and potatoes. ]\Iilk is condensed at several places in the town. I'he 
mineral products are iron, granite, mica, white and blue limestone. The 
white limestone is very valuable for tluxing purposes and in the manu- 
facture of Portland cement. Large deposits of the same are found in 
the western part of the town, running from near Florida to the \'ernon 
\'alley. The blue limestone is valuable for building purposes and is 
found very generally in difYerent parts of the town. Clay beds also exist 
at Florida and at Durland's, from which brick have been manufactured. 

The present bonded debt of the town (1907) is $4,950, bearing 4 per 
cent, interest, wliicli is very small considering the amounts expended in 
the construction of the new iron bridges in the town during the last 
thirty years — nearly twcnt}- — and the cost of new road construction and 
for damages to the town roads and bridges caused by the great flood 
of 1903, when one bridge was completely destroyed, and nine were dam- 
aged, besides the damages to many of the public roads, and other small 
bridges. 

VILL.XGES AXD HAMLETS. 

The village of Warwick wa> known as early a> 17 19. but was not set- 
tled until about 1764. It i> the largest village in the town and the only 
one incorporated. Its area is 395 acres, and its population ( 1005 ) was 
1.767. It was incorporated under a -pi'cial act o\ the Legislature in 1S67. 



432 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and re-incorporated under the general village law in 190 1. Built on 
rolling land in the valley west of the Warwick Mountains, it is an ideal 
spot for country homes. The land is well drained, the Wawayanda Creek 
flowing through the center of the town in a southeasterly direction. The 
mean elevation of the valley is 550 feet, and the nearby mountains rise to 
a height of 1,200 to 1,400 feet. The varied pastoral scenes of wood, 
stream and meadow, with here and there a lake, and the tall peaks of the 
Catskills in the distance greeting the eye from these heights, are said by 
travelers to equal, if not surpass, anything else of the kind in all the wide 
world. 

Fine roads, affording delightful drives, extend from Warwick, in every 
direction, some among the neatly kept farms in the valley and others 
through winding ways among the hills. With such an unrivaled environ- 
ment, Warwick has grown famous for its own peculiar beauties. One 
cannot say that our village is quaint or old-fashioned, with swinging 
gates, grassy lanes, and moss-covered roofs ; rather, it has an air of 
smartness, blended with polished repose. It is a pretty park with velvety 
lawns, showing to vast advantage groups of flowering shrubs, unmarred 
by fences, and with the houses well apart, giving an air of freedom 
from cramped conditions. 

Not only the fine mansions that have been built by prosperous country 
merchants, professional men and city folk, but also the modest homes of 
the village mechanics and artisans, all show the same indvidual public 
spirit, not to be outdone in keeping things spruced up and freshly painted. 
Here and there are old homesteads where son has succeeded father for 
generations, yet the old homes look well and becoming in their new and 
airy clothes. The advent of broad avenues and flag walks have forever 
eft'aced the winding trails, and with them much of the sweet Indian legen- 
dary has been obliterated. For all these rolling hills were once covered 
with chestnut, birch, maple and pine trees. There is somethmg pathetic 
in the passing of the redman, the type of years gone by, as the impress of 
civilization unrelentingly, step by step, has crowded upon his tepee and 
forced him westward. 

Yet the maples, as planted by our fathers, forming bowers over streets, 
are more beautiful than the pine tree. We have no "Unter den Linden," 
but Vv^e might claim an "Unter den Afaples." 

Warwick has been called the Oueen Mllasfe, also a A'illasfe of Homes. 




William Moore Sanford. 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 43^:5 

If she is not truly the former, slie is easily and far away a village of 
homes." 

.\s early as 1830 IJeiiry William Herbert, an English gentleman and 
writer, better known as Frank k'orester, visited the village and stopped 
at the old inn, known as Tom Ward's, now and then called the Wa- 
wayanda House. Forester has celebrated us in his famous book of 
sporting tales and adventures called "Warwick W'oodlands," in which 
he tells many a quaint tale of the doings of himself and mine host Ward, 
(whom he cleverly calls Draw by sim.ply inverting the letters of the name), 
and of many other sportsm.en of that early daw 

No one has ever paid our vale and village a higher tribute than For- 
ester, when he said : 

"In all the river counties of New York there is none to my mind which 
presents such a combination of all natural beauties, pastoral, rural, sylvan 
and at times almost sublime, as old Orange, nor any part of it to me so 
picturesque, or so much endeared by earl\' recollections, as the fair vale 
of Warwick. * ■'' * Throughout its length and breadth, it is one of the 
most fertile and beautiful, and the most Arcadian regions of the United 
States; poverty in its lower and more squalid aspects, if not in any n-al or 
tangible shape, is unknow^n within its precincts ; its farmers, the genuine 
old solid yeoman of the land, the backbone and bulwark of the country, 
rich as their teeming pastures, hospitable as their warm hearts and ever 
open doors, stanch and firm as the everlasting hills among which in 
truly pleasant places their lines have fallen, would be the pride of any 
nation, kingdom or republic ; its women are among the fairest daughters 
of a cou!itrv where beauty is the rule rather than the exception. * * * 
Sweet vale of Warwick, sweet Warwick, loveliest village of the vale, 
it may be I shall never see you more, for the silver cord is loosened, the 
golden bowl is broken, which most attached me to your quiet and seques- 
tered shades. * * * ;May blessings be about you, beautiful Warwick; 
mav your fields be as green, your waters as bright, the cattle upon your 
hundred hills as fruitful, as in the days of old." 

Tn 1883 the village voted the sum of S600 to lay the sidewalks over 
the Main street bridge. In 18S6 the sum of S4.200 was voted by the ta-x- 
payers to buv the lot and budd the brick building occupied by Excelsior 
Hose Company. In 1889 an application was made to the trustees for 
the organization of the Goodwill Hook and Ladder Company. In 1891 



434 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

a truck was bought for said ladder company at a cost of $600. The sys- 
tem for working the village streets was changed in this year to the 
money system. In 1895 a number of the citizens contributed the sum 
of $433 03 for the purchase of a sprinkling cart, a proposition pre- 
viously submitted to the taxpayers for the purchase of the same having 
been defeated at a special election. In 1896, Raymond Hose Company 
No. 2. to look after the interests of the village in the west end, was 
organized by consent of the trustees. 

In 1897, the sum of $500 was voted for the purpose of a fire alarm. 
In this year the first and only franchise ever granted by the village was 
given to Sharp & Chapman for a term of fifty years, for an electric 
light plant. 

These parties having failed to carry out their agreement, the village 
the next year granted a franchise for the same purpose to the Warwick 
Valley Light and Power Company, of the same duration. 

Since 1898 the village has been lighted with electric light at a cost 
of about $2,000 per year, the present plant consisting of ninety-seven in- 
candescent electric lights and six 2,000 candle power arc lamps. 

In 1900 the taxpayers voted the sum of $1,600 for the purchase 
of a lot and the building of a hose house for the Raymond Hose Com- 
pany. 

In 1901 a proposition to reincorporate the village under the general 
village law was carried. A special election held the same year to vote 
upon the proposition of paving our streets with Telford pavement and 
asking for the sum of $10,000 for that purpose, was defeated by only 
three votes. 

In 1902 the heirs oi the late George W. Sanford donated the sum of 
$1,250 to the village for the purpose of a drinking fountain, which has 
been erected and is placed at Fountain Square, corner of Main and East 
Main streets. 

In Tuly, 1906. Warwick, England, celebrated the two thousand years 
of her past history in a great historical pageant upon the grounds of 
Warwick Castle. Invitations were issued to all the Warwicks of the 
^vorld — fourteen in all — to be present and participate in these festivities. 
Dur board appointed its president, Ferdinand V. Sanford, as its repre- 
sentative, who attended the celebration, and delivered in person the fol- 
lowing resolutions of greeting and congratulation: 




Henry A. Benedict. 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 435 

HoxoRAULE Thomas Kemp, 

Mayor of tlic Corporation of Warwick, Englaiul. 
Sir: 

Accept congratulations and greetings from your daughter and namesake across 
tlie sea, on the occasion of your great historical pageant, wherein somewhat of your 
ancient and Iionorable past is reproduced, not merely in centuries, Init in millen- 
niums of time. 

As Americans we are proud of our English ancestry, and of that mighty nation, 
on wiiose empire the sun never sets, whose history is the history of everything that 
makes for progress, a higher civilization and the enlightenment and uplifting of 
mankind. 

May God continue to bless England and .America, the leading Christian nations 
of the earth, wdiose history teaches the world of the transcendent value of the life, 
liberty and happiness of man. 

Done at Warwick, Xew York, United States of America, on the twenty-sixth 
day of May in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and six. 

The Village of Warwick. 

By 

Ferdi.va.mi v. Sa.vfori), 
(Seal.) President, 

Charle.s Wutke. 
George H. Strong. 

Trustees. 
F. C. Cary, 

Clerk of the Corporation. 

'J'o wl'.ich the mayor replied officially as follows: 

Borough of Warwick, to-wit : 

At a meeting of the mayor, aldermen and councilors of the said borough in Coun- 
cil assembled, on the 13th day of July, 1906, 

It was resolved: That the congratulatory address from the corporation of the 
village of Warwick, in the State of Xew York, United States of America, pre- 
sented to the mayor on the occasion of the recent Historical Pageant, be entered 
on the minutes of the Council, and that a cordial vote of thanks for their sym- 
pathetic greetings be accorded to the sister municipality with an earnest hope for 
its continued prosperity. 

And that a copy of the resolution l>c sealed and transmitted to the president of 
the corporation. 

Thomas Kemp, 

Mayor, 

Brabazox Ca.MI'P.EI.L, 

Town Clerk. (Seal.) 

During the present year (i[)oy) the village has hcen the recii)ieiu of a 
fine town clock, presented hy Mr. Pierson E. San ford. The clock is sta- 
tioned in the tower of the Methodist church on Main street. 

At a special election held this year the sum of $4,200 wa-< voted to 



436 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

purchase the building- and lots formerly owned by John A. Dator and 
others, on Main street and Wheeler avenue. It is the purpose of the 
trustees to change the building, and adapt it for village purposes, such 
as a village hall, office for records, maps and files, and the rooms of Good- 
will Hook and Ladder Company. 

A'C7V Mil ford. 

The hamlet of New Milford lies southwest of Warwick, and forms a 
part of the boundary line between New York and New Jersey. It was 
formerlv called Jockey Hollow. It comprises an area of a little more than 
2,000 acres of the most fertile and well watered land in W^arwick A'alley. 
When the Wawayanda patent was deeded by the Indians to twelve white 
men in 1702, the twelfth part deed to Cornelius Christiance included what 
is now known as New Alii ford. Cornelius Christiance sold his share to 
Derrick Vanderburgh in 1704, and the latter sold to Everett & Glows, 
land speculators, in 1714, for a little more than $500. In 1724, the land 
was purchased by Thomas DeKay and Benjamin Aske. Settlers now 
began to come and they were quick to take advantage of the superior 
water facilities. The land was intersected by Wawayanda Creek, and 
flowing into this stream were four rushing mountain streams, all capable 
of furnishing fine water power, the largest of which was the Doublekill, 
so named because it is the outlet of Double Pond, or Wawayanda Lake. 
But not until about the year 1770 were any mills operated, excepting a 
saw mill and the forge on Wawayanda Creek on the farm recently owned 
by the Edward L. Davis heirs. During the year 1780, we find among the 
settlers the DeKays, the Davises, the Demarests, the Lazears, and Wood. 
The first excise money was paid into the treasury from the New Milford 
tavern in 1790 by Cornelius Lazear. A grist mill was built that year on 
the west side of the Doublekill, on the farm known as the Kiernan farm, 
and much further up the stream than the present mill. This mill was 
operated many years. 

In 1802 John Lazear built a grist mill on the site of the present mill. 
In connection with the mill he had a factory for manufacturing axe and 
shovel handles. Between the years 1805 and 1825 New Milford w^as an 
exceedingly busy place. The original and only town at the time was 
where the post-office is at present. 

There were six mills on the Doublekill, and four on the stream covered 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 437 

by the arcli bridge, near the post-office, known as Green Mine Drook. On 
the Doiiblekill there \vere tlie grist mill, or axe handle factory, and tan- 
nery owned by S. W. Clason, now owned by E. M. IJahrmann ; further 
down the stream a feed mill, a saw mill and a fulling or wool-carding 
mill. Then on the Green Mine stream there were a clover seed mill, plas- 
ter mill, cider mill with distillery, and about where William T. Vander- 
vort's barn is located there was a large saw mill run by David Demarest. 
A very good schoolhouse was situated just west of the present Methodist 
church. A post-office was established in 1815 — the first postmaster was 
Merritt Coleman. The turnpike running between New York and Port Jer- 
vis left the main road near the present home of Darius Fancher, crossed 
the E. L. Davis farm, continued northward over a bridge which was east 
of the present site of Borden's creamery, and up the hill to the road which 
now passes west of the house known as Peachblow. This was the main 
road to the northwest. Mr. E. L. Davis built a fulling and carding mill 
near the bridge and operated that as well as a saw^ mill. 

Further down on Wav^'ayanda Creek there were a saw mill, cider mill 
and distillery owned by John Ryerson. The ''covered bridge" was built 
about 1830. In 1835, a boarding school for young ladies was opened in 
the house now occupied by John Lines. The principal, Charles G. Win- 
field, was a man of profound learning. Here the best people of Warwick 
and vicinity sent their daughters to be educated. It was a classical school 
of the highest order. The Methodist church was opened in 1838. In 
1861, W'hen there was a call for volunteers. New IMilford, with a popu- 
lation of only 150 persons, responded with twenty-eight men. 

With the growth of the dairy business in Orange County, less attention 
was paid to milling interests. In 1866, a factory for condensing milk was 
built where the Kiernan fulling and carding mill stood. This was aban- 
doned after the railroad was built in 1879. In 1898 a fire swept away the 
business portion of New Milford, and it has not been entirely rebuilt. 

At present the town is regaining some of the business prosperity it 
enjoyed one hundred years ago. There are two grist mills and a saw 
mill, and one of the largest creameries for bottling and condensing milk 
in the county, owned by Borden's Milk Company, where 4.500 gallons of 
milk are received and shipped daily. There are several old cemeteries 
scattered throughout New Milford. where one may read the names of 
those who lived when the "vears were voung." 



438 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

P'.iic Island. 

Pine Island is a village lying two miles northwest of Amity at the ter- 
minus of the Goshen and Deckertown railroad, leased by the Erie. It has 
a public school, a hotel, a store and post-office, 

Grcemvood Lake and Sterling. 

The Cheesecock's patent, confirmed by letters patent of Queen Anne, 
which embraced this district, was granted March 25, 1707, by Manngo- 
mack and other Indians, whose names are unpronounceable, and who 
signed by their marks, representatives of the sub-tribes of the Minsis, 
whose totem was the wolf, a branch of the Lenni-Lenapes, whose totem 
was the turkey, a branch of the great Algonkin or Algonquin tribe, or 
nation, which held sway over them. 

This deed was dated December 30, 1702, and recorded in the Orange 
County clerk's office, June i, 1736. The original patent, bearing Queen 
Anne's seal, is in the possession of the Sterling Iron and Railway Com- 
pany. Sterling and Greenwood Eake are now embraced in the sixth elec- 
tion district of the town of Warwick. 

Charles Clinton surveyed this patent for the owners in common, be- 
ginning April I, 1735, and ending December 13, 1749. He mentions in 
his field book, as early as 1745, that iron works were in operation at 
Sterling, but to what extent is not stated. The old furnace at Sterling, 
now in ruins, is said to have been built in 1751, and from it was drawn the 
iron from which the great chain was made to cross the Hudson River in 
Revolutionary days from West Point to Constitution Island. This chain 
was built by Abel Noble & Co., Peter Townsend signing the contract 
for said firm for its construction February 2, 1778, to be finished by April 
I, 1778. This chain was drawn across the river April 30, 1778. A bronze 
tablet commemorating the building of Sterling furnace was unveiled at 
the foot of the furnace on June 23. IQ06. Iron mining is still in active 
operation, a shaft extending diagonally under Sterling Lake a distance 
of over 2,000 feet, but the ore is all shipped to other furnaces. The iron 
industry created a need for charcoal, and from Revolutionary times until 
about 1865 cutting wood and burning charcoal was an industry extending 
all over this section, and through the mountains of Greenwood Lake and 
Sterling is a network of wood roads and many foundations where for- 




i/c/y 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 439 

nierly stood the dwellings of collieries. Sterling Mountain rises about GcxD 
feet above the surface of Greenwood Lake, which is about nine miles 
long and 700 feet elevation above sea level. 

The map of this section made by Robert Erskine for General Wa.sh- 
ington gives it the name of Long I'ond. .About midway on the west side 
and about 300 feet from the shore of Greenwood Lake stands an old 
furnace on the furnace brook, which was built about seventy-five years 
ago by William Noble of Bellvale. The furnace was a failure from the 
start, as the stream of water furnished insufficient power for the blast. 
About 1845 ^^ anaque Creek, at the outlet of Greenwood Lake, was 
crossed by a dam, which raised the lake about eight feet, resulting in the 
overflow of about a mile of low land at both the north and soudi ends 
of the lake, forming a reservoir for the use of the Morris and Essex 
Canal, nine miles long and a mile wide. The New York and Greenwood 
Lake railroad reached here in 1876. The terminal station at the line be- 
tween New York and New Jersey on the east shore, called then "State 
Line" (now Sterling Forest), was accessible by boats only, there being no 
public road until 1889, when one was built by the town of W^arwick, the 
contract being taken by Conrad Diehl of Goshen. The steamboat Moitt- 
clair, capable of carrying 400 passengers or more, was built and launched 
in 1876. to accommodate travelers from the railroad. Smaller boats 
had been previously built, first the Pioneer, a sail boat, then the Sxlph, 
then the Montclair, and later the Anita, and at present several :^mall 
steamers and njiphtiia launches without number are in use. 

Prior to the completion of the railroad visitors reached here by stage 
from Monks on the south or from Monroe on the north. Religious ser- 
vices were held in a log schoolhouse one mile north of Greenwood Lake 
prior to 1850, when under the pastorate of Rev. J. H. Hauxhurst. the 
first Methodist church of Greenwood Lake was built, where services were 
regularly held until 1898. when the settlement concentrating about two 
miles farther south, it was deemed expedient to build a new Methodist 
Episcopal church on land donated for the purpose by M. V. Wilson, oppo- 
site the new schoolhouse. which for the same reason was built about 
two and one-quarter miles south of its former site, and now has an at- 
tendance of si.xty-three pupils. The school at .Sterling mines has abouf 
the same number of pupils, children of the miners, religious services being 
held in the schoolhouse under Methodist supervision. 



440 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The new Methodist Episcopal church of Greenwood Lake was built 
under the supervision of Pastor Cranston, and now in 1907 Rev. J. H. 
Calyer is pastor. For fifty-seven years the church has never been without 
a pastor in charge of regular services. 

In about the year 1880 a summer school of Christian philosophy, under 
the supervision of William O. McDowell, was begun in a fine auditorium 
erected for the purpose at Warwick Woodlands on the west shore of 
the lake, and, for the accommodation of visitors, an encampment hotel 
in connection with the Greenwood Lake Association clubhouse was under 
the supervision of Lyndon Y. Jenness. Dr. Charles H. Deems, Dr. Lyman 
Abbott and many other speakers on religious, social and philosophical 
themes, spoke to the assembled multitudes. This club house for a time 
was Greenwood Lake's center of interest, but for lack of support finan- 
cially it was finally adandoned to the uses and amusements of excursion- 
ists. In 1906 the dilapidated building was demolished. 

About 1880 a movement took form to inaugurate a church on what 
was known as the lime rocks, and under the management of Rev. Mr. 
Bradford, of Montclair, assisted by local friends, a tent was erected here 
where services from time to time were held. Now a stone church occu- 
pying this most picturesque spot is under construction and the supervision 
of E. G. Lewis, of New York City, representing the Episcopal church. 

Civilization's onward march is taking strong form here, and over the 
old Indian camping grounds, where numberless arrow heads, spear points, 
stone axes and beautifully ornamented fragments of pottery bear testi- 
mony to the race that has departed, leaving only here and there a name 
that claims relationship, stand to-day spacious hotels, towering churches, 
palatial homes, and the last society formed for their protection is the 
Pioneer Fire Company of Greenwood Lake, which was formed May 3, 
1907. 

Utile York. 

The hamlet of Little York is about a mile east from Pine Island, in 
the town of Warwick. The first settler, Conrad Luft, came from Russia 
and settled there in 1886. About five years later Henry Lust, another 
Russian, came and located. Then followed in 1897 Peter Miller, Conrad 
Schmick, and August Youngmann. The next year eight more families 
came from Russia, buying land and building homes. Their industry is 



•r;,-/;V'' 







o 



UJ 



3 
O 

X 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 441 

onion raising, for which ihe black meadow land which they cultivate is 
admirably adapted. They are Russians, but speak the German language 
and are Lutherans in religion. They are very industrious and thrifty, 
and nearly all have their homes and the land all paid for. In 1907 there 
were twenty-four houses, and one church, the Evangelical Lutheran, of 
which Rev. Gerhard Rademacher is the rector. There are about 200 in 
population, hxd communicant n'.ember< nf s.iid (-Inn-.-h. and thiriv-thr.-,- 
voters. 

A parochial school is maintained in conneciiuu with the church and has 
thirty-nine children in attendance. The church was built in 1898, finished 
in 1901. and incorporated in 1904. Rev. George Kaestner served the 
church until 1904. It was under his ministry that the church was begun 
and completed. He was followed by the present pastor. Rev. Gerhard 
Rademacher, during whose ministry the parsonage was built and the 
cemetery of three acres acquired. 

Other Russians are expected the present year to come and settle here. 

Amity. 

Amity is the western portion of the town of Warwick, extending about 
three miles in radius from the Presbyterian church, the only house of 
worship in the village. 

The church was organized by a committee of the Presbytery of Hudson 
en September 15, 1809, but the first building had been erected and dedi- 
cated thirteen \ears previous, August i. 1796. The building stands on 
a lovely eminence 500 feet above sea level and cominands a splendid view 
in every direction. 

The two conical mountains, Adam and Eve, some four miles distant, 
stand to the northeast and are about 800 feet above the level of the sea. 
These granite mountains are rough and rocky, and are covered with im- 
penetrable brush and bramble. 

The chief occupation of the people is extensive farming. Peach grow- 
ing, however, became a popular and profitable industry about 1885, and 
continued for twenty years, during which time all the principal farmers 
turned their best land into orchards, from which they shipped thousands 
of baskets of delicious fruit to Xcw York City and other t(nvns. where 
there was great demand and high prices. 



442 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

It was not uncommon for a successful orchardist to realize from 
$5,000 to $10,000 for his crop in a single season. The land soon became 
exhausted, however, the San Jose scale attacked and killed the trees, and 
the business declined as rapidly as it had sprung up. About the present 
date (1907) a new find in the land is receiving much attention — limestone 
■n unlimited quantity in most of the farms. Prospectors are finding 
zinc and other valuable minerals, which indicate wealth for those who 
still possess the soil. 

B clival c. 

Bellvale village, known in Colonial times as Wawayanda, is situated on 
the lower rapids of Longhouse Creek, which here enters the meaJows 
and flows a mile and one-half to Stone Bridge station, where it enters 
the Wawayanda, which has its source in Clark's Lake, and then loses its 
name when merged in the smaller stream. Longhouse Creek has its 
source in a swamp in New Jersey a short distance east from Wawayanda 
Lake. It has a large watershed at an elevation above tide water of about 
1,100 feet, and in its descent of six or seven miles runs through several 
fine storage basins and down numerous rapids and falls. For a distance 
of 500 feet options were taken on some of the storage basins by the 
Ramapo Water Company during its active days, with a view to conduct- 
ing the water into the headquarters of the Ramapo River. 

This stream is well adapted for the generation of water power for elec- 
trical or manufacturing purposes, and we learn from colonial history, 
was utilized by Lawrence Scrauley in 1745 to operate a forge of till 
hammer for a plating and slitting mill. This was the only mill of this 
kind in the State of New York, and in 1750 was not in operation. Under 
the Crown we were not allowed to advance the manufacturing stage of 
iron beyond the pig and bar iron stages. It seems Scrauley took his 
chances in this secluded portion of the valley to furnish more convenient 
sizes of iron to meet the wants of the blacksmiths and builders of that 
day, and thus avoid paying tribute to the manufacturers of the mother 
country. The ruins of the hearth where the ore was melted, the race- 
way, and the pit for the wheel that operated the tilt-hammer, are still 
visible, as well as the mudsill of the foundation of the dam. 

During the War of 1812, a Mr. Peck had an establishment upon the 
stream, near the home of William M. Mann, where he manufactured 




William C. Eager. 



TOWN OI' WARWICK. 44^ 

bridle-bits, stirrups, buckles and saddle trees for our cavalry. a> well as 
agricultural implements generally. 

The old forge site and the lands along the rapids up to the line of the 
Cheesecock patent were bought by Daniel I'urt in 1760, and soon after he 
built a flouring mill and a saw mill, both of which were washed away by 
the breaking away of the dam during a very unusually heavy shower of 
rain. The present flouring mill is situated near the site of the earlier one. 
A saw mill was built in 1812, by John Rradner and Ilrower Robinson, and 
rebuilt by Thomas Burt, who operated it and a turning .';hop for about 
twenty vears. The dam has been cashed away and the mill is in ruins. A 
wool carding factory was built by Xathaniel Jones about 18 10. and sul)- 
sequently enlarged for the manufacture of broadcloths by Joseph Urooks, 
but is not now in operation. James, the son of Daniel Burt, about 1812 
settled three of his sons at Bellvale in the milling an<l mercantile busi- 
ness. They established shops for a blacksmith, carpenter, wagon-maker, 
cooper, tailor, shoemaker and the manufacture of red earthen pottery, 
lleni.'iniin Bradncr had a tannery before 1812 where the ruins of the old 
saw mill are situated. The vats were located where is now the old race- 
way, and the bark was ground in a circular curb upon the flat rock back 
of the saw mill I)\- mlling a hcavv mill-stone over the bark, as at one time 
apples were reduced to pumice by cider makers. 

About t8o8 the Bellvale and ^[or.roe turnpike was built to make a 
shorter route to the markets along the Rama])o for the produce of the 
farmers of Warwick. It was nine miles long and shortened the distance 
previously traveled by about one-half. 

The road was maintained above fifty years and the charter then >ur- 
rendered to the State, and the road divided into districts — a fund on 
hand of about $500 was spent in putting the road in order before the 
charter was surrendered. The stockholders never received any money for 
their investment. The massive stone bridge over the channel at Bellvale 
was built in 1832. to take the place of the old wooden one then unsafe 
for travel. Recently the old bridge site. a>^ well as nearly all the land 
along the Longhouse Creek for four or five miles, has passed into the 
hands of one owner, also all the mills and about 3.000 acres of land 
lying along the stream. The probable development of the water power 
for electrical purposes and an early completion of the State road from 
Pine Island to Tuxedo promise-^ a brighter future. Tradition nrc< >niitN 



444 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

for the name of the stream from the long house that stood on its bank 
near the residence of the late C. R. Cline. The Indians that settled there 
built their houses end to end and, as their families became more numerous, 
a long house was built instead of the isolated circular wigwams of many 
tribes. That there was an Indian settlement at this place is highly prob- 
able from the nearby streams for fishing, swamp and mountain for hunt- 
ing, and the fertile prairie-like land for their crops of corn and tobacco. 
In the part where the land has been cultivated plenty of flint arrow heads 
and large chips of flint with sharp edges have been found. The flint chips 
were used by the squaws in cultivating corn and tobacco. 

In 1841, in digging a cellar for an addition to the house, the skeleton 
of an Indian of immense size was found, if the writer mistakes not, in a 
sitting posture. This may have been only one of a great many buried 
there and might have been their chief. 

Out of a population of only about 330, at the time of the Civil War, 
forty-two were enrolled from Bellvale and the immediate vicinity. In 1907 
the population of the place is estimated at about 300. 

EdenviUe. 

Edenville, known in the early annals of local history as Postville, in 
honor of Colonel Jacobus Post, one of its pioneer settlers, enjoys a pic- 
turesque location three mile,s west of Warwick, with which place it is 
closely connected m its postal facilities and commercial interests. 

Doubtless its early progenitors, because of the establishment of this 
little hamlet within a radius of great agricultural fertility, predicted its 
growth to be vastly greater than its actual development proved, but 
as one by one the railroads on either side were established Edenville 
was left to its primitive means of transportation. 

Nearly north of the village of about one hundred inhabitants are 
located the isolated peaks of Mts. Adam and Eve, interest in the mineral 
deposits of which has increased with time. In the decades past, speci- 
mens of granite, syenite, granular quartz, hornblende, arsenical iron, and 
white limestone were gathered by the seeker of mineralogical specimens. 
Later the quarrying of granite was undertaken by the Orange County 
Granite Company and the Empire State Granite Company. The quality 
of the granite found within the moimtain confines is of a high order, but 
the difficulty of transportation forbids an extensive output. 



TOWN OF WARWlLK. 445 

The oldest liomc of Postvilk', known as the "Shingle House," was 
built in 1734, and remained an object of much interest to visitors of the 
village unlil destroyed by fire in the winter of I'joj. 

This was the home of Col. Jacobus Post and is said to have been 
a haven for travelers on their early tours across the Nethcrland country. 

The Edenville Methodist Church was organized on September nth, 
1822. 

The school district known as T'urling Brook district was organized 
in 1813. 

Flori-io. 

Probably no village of our county j)re$ents so great a contrast in its 
local interests of to-day as compared with the early incentives of its 
development, as does Florida, or F'loridus, land of the red flowers, situated 
six miles south of Goshen, six miles north of Warwick, which point> are 
connected by a recently constructed State road. 

In records relating to the early settlement of the village in the latter 
part of the eighteenth century we find the names of Seward, Armstrong, 
Wisner, Carr, Poppino, Randall, Thompson and Roe as actively identified 
with its early interests. 

Although in the heart of a prolific agricultural section, recently devel- 
oped to its full extent, political and scholastic ambition actuated the im- 
pulses of many of its earlier settlers, still to the steadfast, sterling qualities 
of those engaged in agricultural pursuits mu->t be attributed its constant 
development. 

During the governorship of George Clinton, 1777- 1795. Florida was 
represented in the Legislature, and was prominent in the Revolutionary 
struggle. Later, in the political arena, we recall the career of William H. 
Sewcrd, elected as state senator in 1831. Governor in 1838, L^nited States 
Senator in 184Q, and appointed Secretary of State in 1861. 

Florida to-day shows marked changes in its church history. The Meth- 
odist Church was established in 1868. As early as 1742 a Presbyterian 
Church was organized. In 1S37 the church edifice was consumed by fire. 
The present structure was erected in June, 1838. In 1839 a second Pres- 
bvterian Church was founded, but in 1878. the two churches were united. 
Two flourishing church organizations of the Catholic faith exist. St. Ed- 
.vards and the St. Joseph's Polish Catholic Church. 



446 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Educational matters early claimed the attention of the settlers of Flor- 
ida, Samuel S. Seward, De Witt C. Jayne, Robert Armstrong and Jonas 
Seely serving respectively as school commissioners from 1813 to 1843. 
judge Samuel S. Seward founded the S. S. Seward Institute in 1848 as a 
classical school, endowing it with the sum of $20,000. This school was 
held in the old Randolph hotel. After Judge Seward's death, a young 
ladies' seminary was established, opposite the original school building, 
and for years Florida was noted for its superior boarding school. 

With the improved common school advantages of later years came the 
desire of the citizens to widen the influence of the school as originally 
designed, and accordingly a new edifice was erected bearing the name of 
S. S. Seward Institute, receiving the benefit of the reserve fund, and also 
the State appropriation for high schools, thus fulfilling in a greater sense 
the beneficent plans of the original founder. 

A prominent factor in agricultural development has been the influx of 
many Poles and Germans of thrifty type, whose business, at first confined 
to onion and celery growth, is gradually reaching out to other industries 
and professions. Under their management largely the value of the black 
dirt land during the past thirty years has increased from $10 to $200 
per acre. 

Within the last year brick making has been revived. In July, 1905, the 
Florida Civic Improvement Club was organized. 

A sketch of Florida would hardly be complete, without mention of Glen- 
mere, a beautiful sheet of water, furnishing the village water supply, lo- 
cated one mile east of the village. 

From the date of its early christening as Thompson's Pond, its clear 
waters have furnished pleasure to the boatman anrl fisherman. 

CHURCHES. 

The Reformed Church of JJ'aricick was organized by a committee of 
the Classis of Paramus in 1804, and was duly incorporated on March 18, 
1807, under the corporate name and title of "The Consistory of the Re- 
formed Protestant Dutch Church and Congregation of Warwick." It was 
the successor of the Presbyterian Church and occupies the same site of the 
earlier society. In 1904 it celebrated its centennial. 

During Mr. Crispell's ministry the present stone church was built and 




Stolt Mills. 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 447 

lurni>lK'(l al a cost of about $40,000. TIk- new edifice was begun in 1889, 
and dedicated June 26, 1890. 

Union .Ifncaii Methodist Episcopal Church. — 'J'his orsranizaiioi". was 
l)eiiun in tlie winter of 1906. The church was incoriX)ratecl under tlie 
above name on March 12. i()o6. Rev. Joseph Stiles was the first pastor. 
Ourinc: tlie \ear that Rev. Stiles had charge a new church was built oti 
^IcKwan street at a cost of something like $2,000. 

The Roman Catholic Church of St. Sicf'hcii. — In Shea's history we 
read. I""ather Steinnie\er. S. J., better kncnvn as Father Farmer, crossed 
over from his Xew lersey missions into Orange Countv and baptized 
seven near Warwick. After his death, other priests may have visited the 
neighborhood, but there is no record of the fact. 

]n 1849, Father Ward was appointed resident pastor at Goshen, with, 
charge of all Orange County, except the strip along the Hudson. The 
building formerly occupied by the Methodist church in Church street was 
purchased by the denomination, but was not taken possession of until 
1867. 

Tn June. 1887. the Presbyterian church at Florida was purchased. 

In May. 1887. the cemetery ground was purchased at Warwick for 
S350. about an acre and a half. 

Father Minogue erected the present church on South street in the year 
1903. at a cost of $16,000. 

The Calvary Baptist ChurcJi of JVant'ick. — This church was formed 
on the 4th of January. 1866. \'ery soon after its organization, measures 
were taken to erect a house of worship. A lot was purchased on West 
•street, in the village of Warwick, in 1867. and the edifice was dedicated 
August 26, 1868. The parsonage was built the following year — 1869. 
Total expenditure about $20,000. In 1902 the house of worship was 
remodeled and a large addition made to the eastern side for the use of the 
Sunday school. Total expenditure, including new seats and pipe organ, 
about $ro,ooo. Society incorporated February. 1872. 

The Methodist Episcopal Chiircli of JVarivick.— The list of pastors 
^ince 1880 is as follows: Willian^. ('olden. 1880-1882: Cyrus W. Mc- 
FMierson, 1883-1884; F. S. I'.ishop, 1885-1887; Philip M. Waters. 1888- 
1889; Arthur Thompson, 1800-1894; Frank Heale. 1895-1896; Edwin H. 
Carr, 1897-1899; Elmer E. Count. 1900-1902; David McCartney. i<k\V 
1904; J. C. Codington. 1905-1906; E. Stirling Potter. 1907. 



448 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

In 1 89 1, $5,500 was expended on improving church and parsonage. 
In 1906, $7,250 additional was expended, increasing the value of the 
property to nearly $13,000. The present membership is 240, an increase 
of 102. 

The Old School Baptist Church in JVan^'ick. — The principal historical 
events since 18S0, when a history of the church was published in Rut- 
tenber's history of the county, are as follows : Elder James Benedict 
resigned his charge on June 29, 17S6, instead of 1777, as stated in the 
published history. A centennial celebration of the organization of the 
church was held on October 5, 1865. Elder Lebbeus Lathrop preached 
the first sermon in the meeting house still standing on May 19, 181 1. The 
burying ground belongmg to the church and still in use was started in 
1795, and lies nearly opposite the former burying ground, on the road 
from Warwick to Bellvale. 

Christ Chiirch (Episcopal). — The first attempt to start an Episcopal 
church in Warwick was in 1804, but the plan was not consummated. In 
1854 another effort was made, and services were held in the former Meth- 
odist Episcopal church until 1859, under the Rev. W. H. Carter, when 
again the project was abandoned. 

In 1862 the Rev. George Zabriskie Gray, then in deacon's orders, held 
services in Warwick for about six months, when he was called to another 
charge. 

In 1864 Rev. N. F. Ludlum v/as called, and a certificate of incorpora- 
tion of the parish was executed under the name of Christ Church, War- 
wick, N. Y. In 1865 a building committee was appointed, composed of 
Grinnell Burt, John Cowdrey and J. ]\Iason Mcjimsey. The building 
was opened for divine worship the ensuing year, 1866. 

The Y. M. C. A. of Warwick. — This organization was begun in 1879, 
incorporated in 1885, and in 1907 owns a building and lot on Main street, 
with a new gymnasium, costing about $6,000, entirely free of debt. It 
also owns a library of over 1,200 volumes, part donated and part pur- 
chased by the association. The library is registered at Albany, and is 
the onl}' free public library in the village. 

BURIAL PLACES. 

For over a century the tract of land lying to the north of the Reformed 
church was used as a burving ground. The deeds of conveyance to the 



$5>50<^ church and parsonav, 

'•■;.!, v;^7,250 adoHi.na! \va^ c.-.p:nLi'ji., iiv.reasing the value of i. • 

pi-oi-*e'"ty to r;':'arly ^"ip.C'O. The present menibership is 240, an inrrea.- 
of 102. 

The uia ^^ai Tne pinncipai nisioncai 

rvcuts since li ^vas published in Rut 

■a- liber's histor; James I' 

-' ' : '^777') 'IS stated in UiC 

pi^ the organization .of V-'.- 

church jbeus Lathrop prea.cli . 



the first scn.;;oi 

^"'Uv in" ;/i"Our' 



on May 19, 181 1. T; 

' in use was start c:d 



i consunirna' 
n the formei 

■ cHCOn'i, order 



.-mpainted. 



7,200 ^ 



un in tR- 
lot on Maii 
.: i/iy .free -"t ■' 
donated an 
1 at Alb.. 



■LlH \ .lit' .LJ d L • 

■ 1 as a burvine: 




P^C^■c^^^^d^^yc>^^ 



=.^, 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 449 

then trustees of the Presbyterian chnrch, the predecessor of the Re- 
formed church — Francis Baird, Joh.n Simson and George Nance, dated 
January 11, and April 2^, 1793 — recite that in still earlier conveyances 
from William Wickham and John Alorin Scott, one of which was dated 
March 14, 1770, to William Wisner, of forty-five acres of land, "one acre 
thereof was cxceptet! and reserved thereout for a burial ground for the 
use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church of Warwick." In 1889, at the 
time when the new stone church was built, there had been no interments 
here for perhaps twenty years, and accordingly a consent was obtained 
from at least three-fourths of the congregations of the Presbyterian and 
Reformed Dutch Churches for the removal of all the remains interred 
therein, as required by law. The Reformed Church purchased a lot in 
the W'arwick Cemetery and received deed from the latter, dated June 15, 
1889, to which lot the remains of all those interred in the church burying 
ground were removed, and also the headstones marking the graves. 
There are 116 of these stones; doubtless there were many buried there 
without any stones to mark them, and there were other burials there 
which were afterwards removed to family lots in the Warwick Cemetery 
when the latter was dedicated in 1867. The oldest stone is one erected 
to the memory of Anna, the wife of William Eagles, who departed this life 
July 8, 1771. There are interred there Revolutionary soldiers, members 
of consistory and many prominent citizens. To William Culver, a donor 
to the church, was erected by the church a monument, bearing this in- 
scription : "Sacred to the memory of Vv illiam Culver, w'ho departed this 
life, at .South Hampton, Long Island. October 27, 1822, aged 37 years, 
in hope of a blessed immortality." 

The last interment of which there is a gravestone is that of Daniel 
Sinsabaugh, who died November 19, 1869, aged thirty-eight years. It 
is believed that there were later interments than this, but if so there are 
no stones marking the graves. 

It is said that Jacob Gaul, a colored man, the sexton of the church for 
over twenty years, was one of the last burials in the old church graveyard. 

The Old School Baptist burying ground, situated at the corner of Gal- 
loway road and Lake street, was first used for burial purposes in about 
1774, when the meeting house was built there. 

This plot of land was given to the Baptist Church by Elder James 
Benedict, by deed dated September 12. 1791. The trustees of the said 



450 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

church at that time were James Burt. John Morris Foght and John Sut- 
ton; consideration mentioned in deed, forty shilhngs current money; con- 
tains seventy-nine perches of land. 

Elder James Benedict died September 9, 1792, aged seventy-two years, 
six months, eighteen days, and was buried in this plot of ground, but no 
stone marks tlie spot. This plot was used as a burial ground until 1795. 

SCHOOLS. 

The Warwick Institute continued as an academy until October i, t868, 
when the entire property was transferred to the board of education of 
Union Free School District No. 12. The district at that time consisted 
of the school districts Nos. 11 and T2. Since 1880 two other districts 
have been annexed, Nos. 10 and 23. 

In 1893 the board of education built a new brick school house, in the 
place of the old wooden structure and upon the same site, at a total cost 
of $23,000. Again in 1901, another brick building was built, at a 
cost of about $16,000, to take care of the increased demands for more 
school facilities. The latter building was erected upon a new site and is 
called the High School. 

According to the last census (1906) there are 512 children of school 
age in the district ; the actual number enrolled is 450. 

MISCI^LLANEOUS. 

Lehigh & Hudson River Raikmy Company. — This company was first 
organized under the name of the Warwick Valley Railroad Company. 
April 20, 1859, for the purpose of building a road from the village of 
Warwick to the line of the New York & Erie Railroad, at or near the 
village of Chester. 

May, 1879, steps were taken to extend this road to McAfee, Sussex 
County, and in December, 1880, the Lehigh & Hudson River Railway 
Company was formed for the purpose of extending it to Belvidere. N. J., 
on the Delaware River, and connecting with the Pennsylvania Railroad 
at that point. The line was built and the road opened for business 
through to Belvidere in August, 1882. 

In 1889 an extension was built from a point near Greycourt, N. Y., to 
Maybrook, N. Y., connecting at that place with the Poughkeepsie Bridge 




y^c' 



<;% ni'<^'-t^^ 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 451 

Road. Arrangements were made to use the tracks of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad to Phillipsburg. X. J. .A bridge was built across the Delaware 
River at that point to Easton, making a continuous line from l-laslon. I 'a., 
to ]\Iaybrook, N. Y. 

The First National Bank of U'arzcich. — This bank was organized at a 
'netting of citizens held in January, 1864, at the Warwick X'alley Mouse. 
After a canvass for subscriptions to its stock, which was to be $75,000, 
on January 21, 1864, its articles of association were adopted. On January 
28. the first board of directors was chosen. On January 29, John L. 
Welling was chosen president, and on I'ebruary 6, John Cowdrey was 
cliosen vice-president. On March i.i it was voted to increase its capital 
stock by $25,000, making it $100,000 as it stands to-day. At the same 
date Grinnell Burt was sent to Washington to have this bank made a 
depository for the internal revenue of this Congressional District. The 
bank commenced business April i. 1864. 

The JVarzmck Saz'ings Bank was the first one incorporated under the 
general law of 1875. It commenced business January 3, 1876. James H. 
Holly has been president since January 7, 1879. Thomas Burt has served 
as secretary and treasurer from the organization to the present time, and 
has had the general care and management. There has been a steady in- 
crease in deposits year by }ear, and there is now (July i. 1907) on deposit 
$1,264,636.24 belonging to 3.483 depositors, and a surplus of $40,683.97. 

The JVarmnck Cemetery Association was incorporated in 1865. The 
land i)urchased, graded, surveyed and ])lotted in 1866. was dedicated July 
2, 1867, Leonard Cox delivering an appropriate poetical address, and 
Rev. Cyrus G. Van Derveer the oration on that occasion. The twenty- 
seven acres of ground have a pleasing elevated contour, which were 
plotted by ^Ir. B. F. Hatheway, of Stamford, Conn.. 

The lands cost about $7,000 and improvements about $5,000. The 
funds were |)rovided b\- citizen.-* notes of $ioo and $200, which were 
canceled by deeds for lots to the makers of notes. The purchase oi a 
cottage, building a vault and entrance gates and bringing in the public 
water for fountains were accomplished in the few following years and 
the Association was free from debt, and in 188 1 had $2,000 invested. In 
1907 its investments in l->onds and mortgages and Ciovernment lx)nds are 
over $30,000. 

George W. .^anford was president from u^^ organization until his dealii 



452 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in 1900 — for thirty-five years. He was succeeded by Sidney H. Sanford 
and the latter by Nicholas L. Furman. 

Nearly all lot enclosures have been removed, graves leveled and a fine 
sward maintained and treated as a lawn, without expense to the lot 
owners. Its picturesque appearance, fine monumients and well kept 
grounds command the admiration of its visitors. 

Water-Works. — The village was first supplied with water in 1872. 
The brook running north through the Thomas Welling and P. E. Sanford 
farms to the Wawayanda creek furnishes the supply, and is called Mis- 
tucky. This name is an Indian one, from an Indian village located near 
the reservoirs, originally called Miskoutucky, signifying red hills or 
plains. 

In 187 1 preparations were made for the building of a dam of 131 feet 
across this brook, which when completed made a reservoir of i 90/100 
acres on the Welling- farm and i 50/100 acres on tlie Sanford farm, .both 
oi which pieces of land were acquired by the village. Upon the completion 
of the work and the introduction of water in the village, a celebration 
took place in honor of the event in January, 1872. 

This reservoir is situated one and a half miles south from the center 
of the village and covers over three acres of land, with a capacity of eight 
million gallons of water. The w^orks were constructed at a cost of 
$25,000. 

In 1890 the village had outgrown the old supply and steps were taken 
to increase the same. Accordingly a second reservoir was constructed 
about a quarter of a mile to the south of the first dam, with a capacity of 
thirty million gallons. 

In 1903 the sum of $23,000 was appropriated for the enlargement of 
water mains and the construction of new ones. 

Fire Department. — The fire department consists of two hose companies 
— Excelsior No. i and Raymond Hose Company, and the Goodwill Hook 
and Ladder Company. The fire council consists of the chief engineer and 
two warders elected from each of the companies. Inspection day is held 
each year in the month of September, at which time the rooms and appa- 
ratus of the various companies are inspected by the president and 
trustees of the village, and a parade of the whole department takes place. 

Grand Army of the Republic. — A post of the Grand Army of the Re- 
public was organized at Warwick on November 16, 1885, with thirty-three 




LU 



3 
O 

X 



C/5 



C2 



^ 



TOWN OF WARWICK. 453 

charter members. Jame> W. Mullery was commander, and the post \va> 
named for Alichacl .Mullery, a brother of the commander, who served in 
a New Jersey regiment. The number of the post is 575. 

Some years after its organization the name was changed to John J. 
Wheeler Post, in honor of Colonel John J. Wheeler, a native of the town 
of Warwick, who served with honor and distinction in the 56th New 
York Regiment. 



454 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXX. 
TOWN OF WAWAYANDA. 

By Charles E. Stickney. 

THE name Wawayanda is a corruption of llie general salutation 
between white settlers and Indians in pioneer times. This we 
take to be illustrated by the example given in Gabriel Thomas's 
"East and West Jersey," published in 1698. He evidently was familiar 
with the Indian language and lived in Philadelphia where he was a fre- 
quent participant in the conversations when a white man and an Indian 
met. He reports it as follows : "When meeting, the white man would 
say in the Indian language 'Hitah takoman?' (Whence comest thou?) 
The Indian would reply, 'Andagowa a nee weekin' (over yonder). Then 
the white man, 'Tony andagowa a kee weekin?' (Where yonder?) The 
broad Indian accent coupled with the recurrence of the words 'over 
3^onder' was very probably the true derivation of the word 'Wawayanda.' " 

There is not much doubt that the town of Wawayanda was formed out 
of Minisink for political reasons. In 1849 the board of supervisors in 
Orange County was Whig by a considerable majority. The town of 
Minisink was and had been considered Democratic for a long time. Never- 
theless that year Daniel Fullerton, a Whig, was elected Supervisor of 
Minisink. By taking off the northern part of Minisink the Whigs hoped 
to be able to elect the officials in the new town universally. Dr. D. C. 
Flallock made a survey for it. The signers of the petition were mostly 
Whigs. November 27th, Mr. Fullerton made the motion in the board of 
supervisors for the division of the town and the creation of the new town 
to be called Wawayanda. The motion carried by a strict party vote 
of ten Whigs for, to five Democrats against it. The name was selected 
from the old Wawayanda patent, without any particular reference to its 
meaning. The town has ever since been mostly Democratic in its elec- 
tions. At the first election in the spring of 1850, $200 was ordered raised 
for roads and bridges. 

The population of the town in 1855. the first census taken after it was 
formed, showed it to contain 2,069 inhabitants. Ten years later it had 



TOWN, OF WAWAVAXDA. 455 

1.906, a decrease of 163. In 1905, the last census taken, it liad 1,574, a 
decrease since the first census of 1855 (fifty years) of 495. There were 
only 34 aliens in the last census. 

The assessment of this town in 1865 was 19,677 acres, valued at $706,- 
250. and in 1906, forty-one years later, its assessment was 20.175 acres, 
valued at $695,060, and in 1907 it was the same. The town expenses in 
1907 were $1,067.88, hesidcs $2,250 for hij^^hways and .'^400 for liridLT'--. 

THE DROWNED L.VXD W.\K. 

A feature of the towns of ^linisink and Wawayanda is the Drowned 
Lands. These comprise the valley of the Wallkill, or, as named by the 
Indians, the "Twischsawkin," extending from Hamburg-, N. J., to Denton 
in this State. The westerly part of that valley is the part of it in the 
territory of which we write. When the Wallings, who, so far as we 
can ascertain were the first permanent settlers at the head and on the 
west shore of these drowned lands, located here, they found them covered 
with water the greater part of each year, and of little value except for 
grazing purposes, and for the wood upon them. Their total acreage 
was about 40,000 acres, of which 10,000 acres were in New Jersey. From 
the high grounds of the west shore to the river the distance will average 
about half a mile. The great Cedar Swamp on the eastern shore of the 
lands comprised about 15,000 acres. It was covered with water more or 
less the year round, and, when the ice was strong enough in winter, 
farmers drove for many miles to it to get a supply of rails and wood. In 
spring Hoods the water was often from eiglit to twenty feet deep over the 
entire drowned lands. They were the homes of innumerable flocks of 
wild geese and ducks, and the flocks were often composed of thousands of 
members. They raised their young by thou'^nnik in tlie great swamps. 
Fish were also very abundant. 

In 1804 the farmers who owned lands along this vast morass, as well 
as the rich speculators who had bought, for a trifle, huge tracts of it. 
agitated the plan for a drainage. They got up petitions anfl appealed 
to the legislature for help so persistently, that, in 1807. that body passed 
an act authorizing money to be raised to drain the drowned lands. The 
act empowered five commissioners to be elected annually in Goshen. They 
were to assess property owners along the drowned lands for expenses. 

A large ditch was dug by them from Turtle T'ay (a wide and deep place 



456 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in the river opposite the present farm of Reeves B. Wickham and the 
former \^an Bomel farm), to the junction of Rntger's Creek with the 
Wallkill, a distance of about two miles in a direct Hne up stream. The in- 
tention was for this ditch to carry the river's water mainly, especially at 
high tides. Other work was done, so that in nineteen years it is estimated 
that $40,000 had been expended. Little good resulted from it, for the 
ditches rapidly filled with mud. The ruins of this ditch are easily traced 
at this time. 

Gabriel N. Phillips was then the owner of the great woolen factory and 
an immense dam at what is now called New Hampton, but which was 
then called Phillipses'. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

The Erie Railroad, completed through New Hampton in 1835, caused 
that village to become a business place. Many farmers who then brought 
their produce to Goshen for shipment, changed to New Hampton and 
some large business houses started up. The large manufactories which 
soon started in Middletown and the completion of railroads from Sussex 
County, N. J., to New York, 'drew off trade and New Hampton is to-day 
of less importance than it was in former days. 

Denton, named from the family that founded it, has been subject to 
much the same influences as New Hampton. It is about three-quarters 
of a mile southwest of the latter place. Once there were drug stores, 
hotels and a vigorous church there. Under the local option law there have 
been no licenses for hotels issued in Wawayanda for the past twenty-five 
years. The business of Denton has, like other villages, drifted away 
from it. 

Centerville, now called South Centerville, was named from its central 
location in the old town of Minisink. Its trade has, much like that of 
other villages in proximity to Middletown, very much lessened of late 
years. 

Slate Hill is one of the very early settled places in this town. It was 
before the days of post-offices called Brookfield. Some say that this name 
was adapted from the circumstance of a l;)rook winding around the 
village. 

Ridgeberry, named from the high ridge east of it, famous for berries, 
was an early settled place and once had two hotels, two stores, two 



TOWN OF WAWAYAXDA. 4-^y 

churches and was quite a Ijusincss place. Owing to tlie same causes 
which have taken away the trade of many otlier viUages, Ridgeberry has 
now only one good store. 

The Old School Baptist Church at Slate Hill deserves nioru than a 
passing notice. Built over 100 years ago it stands there to-day as it was 
built, but its congregation has nearly melted away. We give it a more 
extended notice elsewhere. The Methodists have a chapel in the village 
and conduct services weekly. The Presbyterians have purchased a site 
for a church in the village and it is only a question of time when an 
edifice will be built upon it. Millsburg on Boudinot's Creek, and Gardners- 
ville on Rutger's Creek, are shorn to a great extent of their former glory. 
The Manning Company has feed and saw mills at the latter place, while 
in the former place the mills of Frank Mead are its distinguishing 
features. 

The first town meeting held in the town after its organization wa> at 
the hotel of D. C. Hallock in Brookfield-Slate Hill in the spring of 1850. 
This was in the building now occupied by Kinney Skinner as a store. 
The other hotel, then kept in the place, was on the opposite corner now 
owned by Dr. F. D. ^Myers as a private dwelling. That hotel was then 
kept by William Bell. There was then no fence in the space between 
the hotels and the square was often the scene of lively scraps in the good 
old days. 

An Indian, Keghgekapowell, one of the grantors of the Evans patent 
under Governor Dongan. was commonly called by the whites "Jo-Gee." 
After signing away his rights to the lands under that patent he moved to 
the foot of the hill, about a mile and a half west of what is now Brook- 
field-Slate Flill. and resided there for some years. The hill in the rear of 
his wigwam became known as "fo-Gee" from that circumstance. A 
spring by his wigwam funiish.cd him water, and an apple tree which he is 
said to have set there. bi:)re fruit for several generations after his depar- 
ture. The fruit was of a peculiar variety and excellent. He is reported to 
have been a good old man and kept up his friendship for the w hites until 
a parly of his tribe came on a visit and coaxed him to go away with thom, 
which was the last seen of him in this town. 

The manufacture of pot and pearl ashes was an important industry in 
the early history of the town. Benjamin ."^mith was engaged in it during 
and after the Revolution. 



458 THE COUNTY OF OR.\NGE. 

Tanneries were once of much importance in the industries of the town. 
There were at least two in Greenville at one time, one in Minisink, and a 
large one for those times, in Brookfield-Slate Hill, in the eighteenth cen- 
tury. The one in Slate Hill was where Elijah Cock now has his Creamery 
and where Samuel Hornbeck resides. The last proprietor of it was Hol- 
loway W. Stephens. He was a justice of the peace in 1851. 

In those early days it took a full year to tan a cowskin, an art now per- 
formed in a few days. 

There is not a tannery in existence in this locality now. 

Besides tanning, previously mentioned, two other important industries 
have passed out of existence in these towns — milling and distilling. When 
the v.hite settlers first invaded this country they did as the Indians did, 
pounded their corn and grain into flour by means of wooden mortars and 
stone pestals which the Indians taught them to use; but in a short time 
grist mills were erected and a little later milling grew to be a great part 
of the work of part of the population. Large mills were at one time m 
Gardnersville, Dolsentown, \\'aterloo Mills, Unionville, Brookfield, and 
Millsburg. Old millers remembered were : The Gardners, Christian 
Schultz, Peter Kimber, John Racine, Tames C. and Adirondam Austin. 
The course of trade has now caused all the flour to be purchased of vx^est- 
ern millers, and the old mills are now closed or simply used to grind cow 
and horse feed. Frank Alead's, at Millsburg, is now the only flouring mill 
in the town. In those first days whiskey was a common beverage in al- 
most every family, and when visitors came it was considered a breach of 
hospitality to neglect to set out a glass of it for the guests. It sold then. 
as we find from old account books, at about seventy-five cents a gallon. 
Distilleries abounded everywhere. But there came a time when taxes 
were laid heavily on distillers, and the price of liquor was put up by the 
action of the taxes. In consequence the distilleries dropped out one by 
one, until now only one remains in Wawa}anda, near Centreville ; and one 
in Minisink, near Johnson's. 

WAWAYAXDA CHURCHES. 

The Baptisi church of Brookfield (now Slate Hill) executed a certifi- 
cate of organization at the house of Lebbeu" L:lthrop, which, we have 
been informed, was then in the village, Decen r^iT 15, 1791. Isaac Finch, 
John Fenton and Benjamin Smith were the ; ees. Previous to that 



TOWN Ol" WAWA^'AXUA. 459 

date several niemlxrs had, in July, 1783, stated to the Warwick church, 
in an appHcation, that they hved west of the Wallkill and desired to be 
set otY as a separate church. August 28, 1783. Elder Benedict, of War- 
wick, with two l)rethren named Sillshee, came west of the Wallkill. 1)ap- 
tized seven members, and constituted the church. A brother named Clark 
was ordained the next day to preach for the new church. The meetings 
of the congregation were held at i)rivale houses and in barns to suit con- 
venience until 1792. 

In December, 1791. John }lallock, whose lands extended from h\> resi- 
dence, a mile south of Ridgeberry, across the flats and to linxikfield, 
deeded a lot to the church for its use. In 1792 the new meeting house 
was erected on the lot. In those days the difference betw^een the meaning 
of church (an organization for religious worship) and the building used 
for meeting purposes was clearly detined, and rhe edifice was called a 
meeting house invariably. The building at first was without a steeple 
and just as it stands to this day, except it now has a steeple. The steeple 
was added to it in 1828. The church interior is to-day just as it was first 
built and should be preserved as an excellent specimen of oldtime archi- 
tecture. 

A Congregational church was organized in Ridgeberry in 1792. which 
held until 1817, w'hen it was changed to Presbyterian. The regular organi- 
zation of th.e church dates from November 27, 1S05, when a certificate of 
it was filed at the house of Jonathan Bailey in Ridgeberry. 

The next oldest church organization to Ridgeberry was the l'resl)y- 
terian as Centerville. This was incorporated April 5, 1827. The church 
edifice was built and dedicated in 1829. 

The Presb}'terian church of Denton was organized and detlicaled in 

1839. 

The Methodist Episcopal church, at what is now called South Center- 
ville, was incorporated September 8. 1873. 



46o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXXI. 
TOWN OF WOODBURY. 

THE town of Woodbury is located in the southeast section of Orange 
County. Bounded on the north by the towns of Blooming Grove 
and Cornwall, on the east by the town of Highland, on the south 
by Rockland County and the town of Tuxedo, while the town of Monroe 
forms its western boundary. It has an area of 23,839 acres, and the title 
to the soil is mainly derived through the Chesecook patent. The assessed 
valuation of real estate in the town in 1907 was $802,371. 

Topography. — A striking feature of the town is the continuous valley 
extending from the northern to the southern boundary which divides the 
town into nearly equal parts, and which has been made the line of the 
Newburgh short-cut branch of the Erie railroad, and of the new State 
road. Through this valley flows Woodbury Creek northward, uniting 
in the town of Cornwall with Moodna Creek. Not far south of the 
sources of Woodbury Creek are the headwaters of the Ramapo, which 
flows southward through the town of Tuxedo. The summit between these 
two valleys is low, and the rivulets of the two streams flowing in opposite 
directions are found very near to each other. The eastern portion of the 
town is drained by Popolopen Creek in the town of Highlands. Numerous 
ponds of surpassing beauty are within the town limits, of which Crom- 
well, Forest and Cranberry Lakes are the largest. 

The Schunnemunk Mountains, appropriately described as the "high 
hills to the west of the Highlands," extend along the northwestern bound- 
ary of the town and are divided longitudinally by the boundary line of 
Blooming Grove and Woodbury. This was the original dividing line be- 
tween the Wawayanda and Chesecook patents, and also one of the monu- 
ments in the line of the Evans patent. This range has an elevation of 
from 1,300 to 1,600 feet. Eastward across the valley filling out to a 
section of the southeast border of the county and forming a portion of 
the Highlands, is a battlement of mountainous elevations, including Pine 
Hill, Black Cap, Cranberry Hill, Stockbridge, Stevens, Goshen, Letter- 
rock and Black Mountains. 



TOWN OF WOODBURY. 461 

EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 

The southeastern portion of Orange County was settled mostly from 
the Eastern States and Long Island. The families were generally 
of English ancestry. All accounts of Revolutionary times indicate a 
populaticju of considerahle numbers in this territory. The Chesecook 
patent was granted in 1702, and there was no settlement for some years 
following that date. The Smiths were in this region as early as 1727, and 
the name Smith's Clove near the present village of Highland Mills ap- 
pears in the town records of Cornwall of 1765. The records of Corn- 
wall having been preserved, the following names are taken from them 
as having belonged to what is now the territory of Woodbury. Solomon 
Cromwell and Jonathan Hallock were among the earliest settlers. John 
Earle in 1765 was a chosen fence-viewer for Woodbury Clove. He lived 
near Highland Mills. His sons were Peter, John and Solomon. Isaac and 
John Lamoreux are both mentioned in Cornwall records before the Revo- 
lution. Thomas Smith was overseer of highways in 1765. William Thorn 
was a justice of the peace in 1770 and lived at Highland Mills. Captain 
Austin Smith was chosen assessor in 1775. Nicholas Townsend came 
from Long Island previous to the Revolution. Tobias Weygant was a 
town officer of Monroe at the first town meeting in 1799. Jonathan 
Taylor, one of the first school commissioners, lived near Highland Mills, 
and Linus Rider lived on the "Ridge" west of the same hamlet. Patrick 
Ford lived near Woodbury Falls. His son, David Ford, was the father 
of ten children, of whom Charles T. was the eldest. I'urther reference to 
the early settlement of this locality is made in the historical sketch of the 
old town of Monroe. 

ORGANIZATIOX. 

In the year 1863 a movement wa> >lI uu i. m.i lo divide the town of 
Monroe into three towns. A petition was sent to the board of super- 
visors, which was granted at its usual meeting. The names of the new 
towns were respectively Monroe, Highland and Southfield. Monroe held 
its town meeting March 22, 1864, electing Chaunccy B. Knight, super- 
visor. Highland did likewise, choosing its old favorite, Morgan Shuit. 
The town of Southfield organized in the same manner, elected Josiah Pat- 
terson, supervisor. This triple division was at length disapproved, and in 



462 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1865 the Legislature was asked to overrule the action of the board and 
reorganize the old town of Monroe. This movement was successful. 

December 19, 1889, the board of supervisors, upon representation of 
the diverse interests of different parts of the town, resolved to redivide 
the same into three parts. The three new towns erected were named re- 
spectively, Monroe, Woodbury and Tuxedo. The lines were run so as to 
give Monroe 12,101 acres, Woodbury 23,839 acres and Tuxedo 27,839 
acres. It was further resolved that the division of the town should be 
made on the old lines, but that the names Woodbury and Tuxedo should 
be substituted for Highland and Southfield. The reason advanced for 
this redivision was that the town was too large and its interests too di- 
verse for harmonious government. In January, 1890, John A. Patterson 
represented the newly created town of Woodbury in the board of super- 
visors. James Seaman was the second supervisor from this town, Alex- 
ander Thompson the third, and William E. Ferguson, who was elected 
November, 1907, the fourth. The town hall is located at Highland Mills, 
where the present town clerk, B. S. Pembleton, resides. The assessors in 
1907 are Charles Jones and William Wilson, of Highland Mills, and 
Richard Bullwinkle, of Central Valley. The highway commissioners are 
E. C. Cunningham, of Central Valley, N. B. Hunter, of Highland Mills, 
and John H. Hunter, of Woodbury Falls. The justices of the peace are 
W. M. Gildersleeve and John Rodgers, of Central Valley, Amos W. 
Sutherland, of Highland Mills, and Charles E. Hand, of Mountainville. 
The town is divided into four school districts, of which the Free School 
at Central Valley is the most important. A new school building is in 
course of construction at Highland Mills at a cost of $18,000. Places of 
worship include the Friends' churches at Woodbury Falls and Highland 
Mills, a Methodist Episcopal church at Flighland Mills and another of 
the same denomination at Central Valley. A Roman Catholic church is 
now being erected midway between Central Valley and Highland Mills. 
The Society of Friends had a meeting house in Cornwall, built before 
1788, and it was the only meeting house or church in that town until 1825. 
The meeting house at Smith's Clove was built in 1799. After the separa- 
tion of the society in 1828, -a meeting house one and a half miles easterly 
of Highland Mills was built. The first Methodist Episcopal church in the 
old town of Monroe was organized and duly incorporated May 2, 1829, 
and a church edifice soon afterward erected at Highland Alills. 




Charles 1 . Ford. 



TOWX OI- \VO()l)i;i iv\ . 463 

VlI.r.AGliS. 

Central \allc\-. a noted summer resort, is the .nost thrivini,^ and popu- 
lous village in the tnwn. (ni the Xevvburgh branch of llio Iirie railroad. 
A post-office was established here December 27, 1S71. Alfred Cooper was 
appointed postmaster and held the position many years. Mr. J. M. 
Barnes received the appointment of postmaster in 1885 and again in 1892. 
Henry T. Ford, the present incumbent, received the appointment July 15. 
1899. Among the leading industries of the village is the Bamboo l-'ishing 
Rod factory of which Reuben Leonard is superintendent. This was estab- 
lished by the late Hiram L. Leonard, who came to Central \'alley in 1881. 
The Leonard rods are shipped to all parts of the world where fly-fishing 
is pursued. The carriage factory of R. F. W'eygant's Sons is another 
important industry. It was established in 1867 by Robert F. Weygant, 
who died SejUember 3. 1902. He was a descendant of Michael W'eigand 
of the Rhine Palatinate, who settled at Xewburgh in 1709. The sons. 
Frank E. and Fred, conduct the Central \'alley establishment, and 
William ^NL operates the blacksmith shop and garage at Tuxedo. The 
tlour and grain warehouse of J. i\L Barnes had an extensive trade. Mr. 
Barnes located in Central \'alley in 1876. engaging in the mercantile busi- 
ness with Alfred Cooper. In this village is located the office of the super- 
intendent of the Good Roads Construction Company, ^Ir. Charles T 
Ford, who in his sixty-third year is one of the most active citizens in the 
county. Many miles of good roads in Orange County are evidence of the 
splendid work accomplished under his direction. Here also is a branch 
of the Arden Farms Dairy Company. Both these enterprises arc the 
product of ]Mr. E. H. Harriman, who owns extensive farms throughout 
this section. ]\Ir. Isaac L. Xoxon erected many of the beautiful homes 
and other substantial structures in and adjoining the village. He also 
conducted for a time a classical boarding school. Here also -vvas the 
home of the Cornell Institute, a high-class boarding and day school of 
which Mr. David Cornell was principal. In the fall of 1885 Tomas 
Estrada Palma established the Palma Institute over which he presided. 
It was a school for boys in which they were prepared for college. English. 
French and Spanish being taught. Mr. Palma was a Cuban and in 1868 
joined the Revolutionists. After fighting nine years he was captured and 
taken to Spain, where he spent a year in prison. His first visit to Central 



464 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Valley was in 1879, making his home here with Mr. David Cornell. 
"Falkirk," an institution designed and built for the special care of patients 
suffering from nervous diseases, was founded by Dr. James Francis 
Ferguson in 1889. Its elevated location, a mile and a half from the vil- 
lage, and the beautiful surroundings, contribute to make an ideal home for 
such patients. Following the death of Dr. Ferguson in 1904, the sani- 
tarium was conducted for two years by Dr. Henry A. Ferguson and Will- 
iam E. Ferguson, when it was purchased by Dr. Carlos F. MacDonald, 
who has associated with him Dr. Clarence J. Slocum as resident physician. 
Among the New Yorkers who occupy their homes here during the entire 
year may be mentioned Mr. Edward Cornell, Mr. W. E. Ferguson, Mr. 
Davidson, Mr. Theboldt and Mr. Bullwinkle. 

Highland Mills is situated about a mile north of Central Valley, and 
is the home of the descendants of some of the earliest settlers in this 
region, notably the Cromwells, Townsends and Hallocks. The place 
grew up around the mills established at this point. The Townsend tan- 
nery and the Townsend flour mill were in operation many years ago. The 
place was formerly known as Orange and a post-office was established 
here under that name in 1828. Mr. Vail was the first postmaster. He 
was succeeded by Peter Lent in 1844, and a few years later Morgan Shuit 
received the appointment. It was about this time that Mr. Shuit began 
taking an active interest in local politics in which he soon became a 
leader. For thirty-one years he was supervisor of the town, and for 
a like period justice of the peace. From 1879-1880 and 1880-1881 he was a 
member of the State Legislature ; retiring from a mercantile career in 
1864, he purchased large tracts of farm land, and followed this vocation 
to the time of his death in 1884. Among the business enterprises of the 
village is the fishing line factory ; the high-class livery of Tannery & Hull, 
whose stables contain forty head of horses; the fish rod factory of Ed- 
ward Paine, and the firms of Jarnes & Terry and Harding & Eames, build- 
ing contractors. The leading mercantile establishments are those of 
George Cromwell, B. S. Pembleton and Albert Fitch. The present post- 
master is Henry Hallock. The only hotel in the village is conducted by 
George Lamoreux. Flill Crest, a fashionable summer hotel, is a mile 
and a half west of the village. It has accommodations for two hundred 
and fifty guests. The Cromwell Lake House, bordering on this beautiful 
sheet of water, accommodates one hundred and fifty guests, and is con- 




James F. Ferguson, M.D. 



TOWN OF WOODBURY. 465 

('uctetl by Oliver Cronnvcll. The water supply for the villages of High- 
land Mills and Central X'alley is obtained from Cromwell Lake. 

Woodbury Falls is a hamlet in the north part of the town, taking its 
name from the falls in Woodbury Creek. It w'as formerly the seat of a 
furnace. A post-office was established here August 11, 1874, and Lewis 
A. Van Cleft was the first postmaster. James Seaman is the present in- 
cumbent. 

The specific details of the settlement of this region are blended with 
the histories of the towns of Cornwall and Monroe, to which the reader 
is referred. 



466 THE COUNTY OF ORAX(il<:. 

CHAPTER XXXH. 
THE BENCH AND BAR. 

By William Vanamee. 

AT the unveiling in Goshen, September 5th, 1907, of the monument in 
memory of the gallant solaiers of the 124th Regiment, erected by 
that modern exemplar of medieval knighthood, that truest of 
men, of gentlemen and of heroes, Thomas W. Bradley, it was mentioned 
by one of the speakers that just forty-five years before, upon that very 
spot, as the regiment was about to start for the front, the stand of colors 
destined to be carried by it through many a battle, was presented to it in 
behalf of the Daughters of Orange by Charles H. Winfield. 

His noble, inspiring speech upon that occasion was fitly responded to in 
behalf of the regiment by David F. Gedney, then Mr. Winfield's only 
rival at the Goshen bar and his acknowledged equal. The highest praise 
that can be bestowed upon either is that each feared for the success of 
his cause when opposed by the other. Indeed they were nearly always 
opposed, for what timid, anxious client, learning that his adversary had 
engaged the services of one, ever failed to suggest to his local attorney 
the importance of averting prospective defeat by the employment of the 
.other. This remark of course applies chiefiy to litigations arising in the 
Western end of the county, in which the trials were usually held at 
'Goshen, for in Newburgh, Stephen W. Fullerton, who was admitted to 
the bar in 1844, j^st one year before Mr. Gedney was admitted and two 
years before Mr. Winfield, had from the first successfully challenged their 
'.supremacy in the county at large. Well might he do so, for while he was 
not the equal of Winfield in magnetism and force or of Gedney in scholar- 
ship and style, yet he excelled them both in acuteness, in industry and 
in mastery of the rules of evidence. This, then, was the great triumvirate 
that forty years ago reigned supreme throughout the county of Orange 
in the affection of their associates, in the admiration of juries and in the 
plaudits of the multitude — Winfield, Gedney, Fullerton. All three pos- 
sessed genius of an uncommon order and no court, however insensible 
to the graces of oratory, could wholly restrain its flights or direct its 



THE BENCH AND DAR. 467 

course. Wlicii the vexatious details of the testimony were over — for in 
tiiose days the testimony was regarded by the pubhc as a tedious formahty 
preparatory to the great event of the trial, the summing up — and when it 
was understood that the addresses to the jury were to begin, the court- 
room was quickly filled by people from all parts of the county, eager for 
the intellectual treat that w^as sure to follow. Winfield was wont to begin 
his closing argument somewhat slowly and even laboriously. This was 
due partly to the habit of his mind, which required the stimulus of exer- 
cise to quicken it to its highest exertions, but partly also to rhetorical de- 
sign, by wdiich he sought to make his subsequent outbursts of impassioned 
eloquence seem wholly unstudied, spontaneous and irrepressible. Indeed, 
they usually were. As the thought of his client's wrongs surged in upon 
him, as he dwelt upon his client's right to protection or relief, or contem- 
plated the disaster involved in defeat, his words could scarcely keep pace 
with the torrent of impetuous, sincere and deep emotion on which they 
were upborne. He always struck the human note which the case pre- 
sented. To him a trial did not involve a mere application of legal prin- 
ciples to an ascertained state of facts,- but to him every case, however dry, 
barren or abstract, w^as a human drama. He saw, with the eye of imagina- 
tion and the insight of genius, those forces of hate and revenge, of greed 
and falsehood, of cunning and cruelty, of devotion and affection, of honor 
and truth, wdiich in one form or another, surcharge every trial, and pro- 
ject their palpitating figures upon the most intensely vital, vibrant stage 
for which the .scenes were ever set — the conscious court-room, the austere 
judge, the impassioned advocates, the enthralled spectators; human 
life or lilierty. human happiness or despair, human rights or relations, 
hanging in the balance upon a jury's nod. All this Winfield saw. In 
every trial the panorama of human life unfolded itself to his inspired 
vision. He took the broken, confused fragments of human testimony 
and. subjecting them to the kaleidoscope of his own fervent, symmetrizing, 
mirroring imagination, they were transformed into ]iicturcs of beauty or 
shapes of evil, as he willed. 

It can easily be imagined that his power over juries was well nigh irre- 
sistible. If Davifl F. Gedney, who was so often f)itted against him. had 
sought to coimtcract his influence by the exercise of similar gifts, he 
might well have despaired of success. But happily for himself and for 
the delight of juries and the bar, no advocates were ever more unlike each 



468 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

other in method of argument, in point of attack, in form of expression, 
in appeal to the sentiments, than Winfield and Gedney. Winfield filled the 
eye; Gedney charmed the ear. Winfield visited upon wrong or duplicity 
the bludgeon blows of invective. Gedney pierced it with the envenomed 
shaft of sarcasm. Winfield sought to break the armor of his adversary 
with the broad axe of denunciation. Gedney penetrated it with the slender 
arrow of wit and the fatal spear of ridicule. To Winfield language was 
a necessary vehicle of thought, a familiar medium of expression. To Ged- 
ney language was a divine instrument, over the responsive chords of 
which his master touch swept with unerring taste and classic grace, 
evoking notes of exquisite harmony and images of surpassing beauty. 
The words that flowed unbidden from his enchrismed lips were music 
indeed. His sentences, chaste and polished as though chiselled in the very 
laboratory of thought, were but the unconscious reflection of a mind 
steeped in the literature of every age and tongue. Even Winfield often 
found to his dismay that those weapons of solid argument which would 
have defied all the onslaughts of the gladiator, were powerless before 
the arts of the magician. Not indeed that Gedney elevated style above 
matter or sacrified strength to beauty. But in him style and matter were 
so delicately balanced, beauty and strength so discreetly blended, that each 
borrowed from the other and none was poorer for the exchange. 

The personal characteristics of the two men were also dififerent. Win- 
field loved the approbation and applause of his fellows and aspired to poli- 
tical honors. Gedney looked out upon the world with philosophic calm, 
undisturbed by its clamors and untempted by its baubles. The only 
offices which he held were strictly in the line of his profession — district 
attorney and county judge — while Winfield acquired a conspicuous po- 
sition in Congress at a time of intense public interest and excitement. 
Winfield bore defeat with impatience. Gedney with equanimity. Win- 
field, who especially could not endure the thought of defeat by a younger 
adversary, often treated him with unnecessary severity ; always, however, 
taking care to express his regret afterwards that the heat and zeal of con- 
flict had carried him too far. Gedney, on the other hand, never suft'ered 
to arise the occasion for apology^ or regret. He disdained to use his un- 
rivaled powers of sarcasm and ridicule at the expense of a weaker adver- 
sary, and throughout the entire course of a trial, he was scrupulous not 
to sav one word which might in an^' decree wound th^ sen!~ibilities of a 



THE liKXCll AXIJ l;Ak. 409 

younger member oi the bar. Moreover, he al\va)s look pains to speak a 
word of encouragement and praise to the younger lawyers whenever their 
maiden efforts justified interest or respect. 

(leihieys ha])i)iest hour> were passed at his own fireside, while W'in- 
ticld luved to mingle freely with his fellow men. But Winfield's children 
had died, one by one, in childhootl, and it is pathetic to recall that he sank 
tu his long sleep while addressing little children on a i)eaccful .Sunday 
afternoon in June, just sixty-six years after his eyes had opened not far 
away on a world in which he was destined to reap many cruel sorrows, 
some substantial rewards, and all the mocking, delusive delights of a 
transient fame. 

His friend, Judge Gedney. followed him only a month later as he sat 
upon the porch of his home in Goshen. As together they had journeyed 
through life, sharing its burdens and its conflicts, so in death they were 
not long separated, and in the manner of their summons they were alike 
blessed, for to neither did it come upon a bed of lingering illness. 

Their lifelong friend. Judge Stejihen W. Fullerton, was not .'io fortu- 
nate. Surviving his old associates fourteen years, he lived to see the 
world march past him and to realize the bitter truth that il lakes but little 
interest in a lawyer, however prominent, ])opular or useful he may have 
been, after his activities and usefulness have ceased. And yet Judge Ful- 
lerton possessed some traits of character which should have en>^ured him. 
above all his fellows, from the sharp tooth of either ingratitude or neglect. 
He actually gave away three fortunes. His generosity knew no bounds. 
An appeal to his sympathies w^as never made in vain. A claim put for- 
ward in the name of friendship was to him sacred and admitted of no 
hesitation. Every consideration of selfishness or even of prudence went 
down before the spectacle of a friend in need. It was inevitable that a 
nature so generous and so confiding should often be imposed upon by 
unworthy claims, but to these he never referred with bitterness or even 
regret. A few dear friends, including especially Judge Hirschbcrg and 
\\^alter C. Anthony, were true and faithful to the last, and it must be a 
satisfaction to them to know that their loyal, undeviating attachment 
cheered and consoled the last hours of a lawyer who once shared with 
\\'infield and Gedney undisputcfl preeminence at the bar of Orange 
County. 

For never were tender, affectionate and generous traits of character — 



4/0 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

often assumed to be inconsistent witli the coldness and sternness of the 
law — joined to a more severe, patient, thorough, comprehensive training 
in the law than in the case of Judge Fullerton. To him the law was 
a science and the practice of it an art demanding the sleepless pursuit 
and worship of its votaries. To the principles of such a science and the 
rules of such an art, having for their object the most exalted end of all 
organized society, the establishment of truth and the maintenance of 
justice, he was willing to consecrate the noblest energies of his mind and 
heart. To him no labor was too hard, no sacrifice too great to deter him 
from mastering the minutest details of a complicated case or from ascer- 
taining and applying the principles by which it should be governed. When 
he came to court to present it every form in which difficulty might be 
apprehended or obstacles interposed had been anticipated and provided 
for. He always tried the case on both sides before he went to court, and 
his opponents never raised many of the points which he, in his anxious 
survey, had most dreaded. His thorough knowledge of the rules of evi- 
dence enabled him to introduce testimony upon some minor issue in the 
case which was afterwards used With telling effect upon the main issue. 
In his addresses to the jury he discarded every appeal to mere sentiment 
and sought to impress only their reason and their judgment. His analy- 
sis of the evidence was so close and perfect, his presentation of it so 
clear and convincing that the jury were led to think that his was the 
view they had taken of it all the time it was being given. Gathering up 
the different threads of narrative in the case he wove them together in 
a strand of pitiless, impervious, cohesive logic that not all the frantic 
efforts of his adversary could avail to unwind. Such was the man who, 
like Gedney, had also been county judge and district attorney of the 
county, to whom Mr. Marsh, as the spokeman of the Orange County 
bar, paid fitting tribute at the Newburgh court house in June, 1902 — 
Luther R. ]\Iarsh who at the time of his own death in 1903, constituted 
the last lingering tie between the present and the past. 

No history of Orange County is complete that fails to chronicle the 
twelve years' residence of Luther R. Marsh, who imparted luster to 
every scene in which he mingled, dignity to every spot in which he lin- 
gered. He spent in Middletown the closing years of a life which had 
been marked by the most intense ardor and activity in his profession, 
and, though he had retired from active practice when he settled in Orange 



THE P.ENXIl AXD P.AR. 471 

County, he was drawn into court after that upon two occasions in Hti- 
ijations arising- in the county. The intimate friend all his life of Orange 
County's ablest sons, from the Hofifmans to tiie Fullertons, he became the 
friend, the companion, the idol of a new generation of its lawyers when 
lie came to ]\Iiddletown in 1889, being then nearly eighty years of age. 
For though he lived to be ninety, he never became old. worn or feeble in 
-pirit. In a public speech delivered a few months before his fleath. he de- 
clared that to be the happiest period of his life. In his dailv walk and 
conversation he exemplified the philosophy of Rabbi Ben Ezra, as ex- 
pressed by Browning: 

"Grow old along with me ! 

The best is yet to be, 
The last of life, for which the first was made; 

Our times are in His hand 

Who saith 'A whole I planned, 
Youth shows but half: trust God: see all, 

Xor be afraid!' " 

Nor was he afraid. His daring vision sought to pierce the secrets of 
the hereafter. I'or a long time before his death he was deeply interested 
in >i)iritual phenomena and in the investigation of those manifestations 
of persistent personal energy after death, the authenticity of which con- 
titutes the only proof we can ever obtain of the doctrine of immortality. 
Trained to estimate the weight and value of evidence, engaged during 
his entire professional career in convincing arguments as to its proper 
construction and effect, he accepted as sufficient and satisfactory the evi- 
dence adduced to him of communications and impressions still conveyed, 
as the church even now maintains they were of old, from those who have 
passed on to the spirit world. 

But. though during his later years he clearly saw how trivial were the 
ordinarv ambitions and pursuits of men ; though his thoughts became more 
and more centered upon things spiritual and eternal, yet he never lost his 
interest in the sterling values and, above all. in the beautiful friendships 
of life. Childhood, youth and manhood held each its claim upon his 
tender regard, his ready understanding, his never-failing sympathy. To 
him more than to any man T ever k-ncw do Goldsmith's immortal lines 
apply : 

"E"cn children followed, wth endearing wile, 
And plucked his gown, to share the good man's smile. 



472 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

His ready smile a parent's warmth exprest; 
Their welfare pleased him, and their cares distrest; 
To them his heart, his love, his griefs, were given, 
But all his serious thoughts had rest in Heaven : 
As some tall cliff that lifts its awful form, 
Swells from the vale, and midway leaves the storm. 
Though round its breast the rolling clouds are spread, 
Eternal sunshine settles on its head." 

Luther R. Marsh was unquestionably the most original, brilliant, fas- 
cinating, prolific, versatile genius that ever dwelt in Orange County during 
the years in which in him it "entertained an angel unawares." He mingled 
on equal terms with the greatest men of his generation. He was a part- 
ner of Daniel Webster. Among my most cherished possessions is the 
tin sign which Mr. Marsh had framed and hanging for many years in his 
study, bearing in his own handwriting the inscription : 

Luther R. Marsh." 

"In 1845, on Mr. Webster's retirement from business to return to the Senate of 
the United States, I took this sign off from our office door, 44 Wall Street, New 
York, where it had been during our partnership. 

When Webster was dying in 1852, Henry J. Raymond, the gifted editor 
of die New York Times, wrote : 

"My Dear Marsh : — We hear from Marshfield that Mr. Webster cannot live 
through the day. I want from you, if it is possible, for to-morrow morning, an 
article — of what kind you know a good deal better than I can tell you. ***** 
No man in this city certainly can do it so well. Nine o'clock this evening, or even 
ten, will be early enough to have it here. 

Yours as ever, 

H. J. Raymond.'" 

The article, occupying over four columns, was there on time. Mr, 
Marsh, that afternoon, upon a moment's notice, at a single stroke, threw 
off an estimate of Webster's genius and achievements that never was ex- 
celled later, even in the glowing, studied periods of Everett. Winthrop, 
and Curtis. 

When in 1869, Henry J. Raymond died, Mr. Marsh was invited to 
become his successor, but he declined the honor fearing that the position, 
though congenial to his tastes, would be too exacting in its demands. 
When we consider that at this time Mr. Marsh was besieged by clients 
and immersed in cases ; when we consider, too, that a busy lawyer is the 
last one to whom a publisher would naturally turn ( for there is no class 
of men in whom the truly literary instinct combined with the gift of 



THE BEXCil AXlJ IJAR. 473 

literary expression is so rare as among successful lawyers;, this recog- 
nilion of the unique literary distinction which Mr. Marsh had attained, 
even while engaged in the fiercest legal contests with such hard-headed 
lawyers as David Dudley Field. John \"an LJuren. Charles O'Conor, James 
T. IJrady, John K. Porter and Judge Comstock. is most impressive and 
conclusive. But in his forensic contests the lawyer dominated the lit- 
terateur. Any opponent who thought that because of Mr. Marsh's fin- 
ished, faultless, elegant literary style he would escape hard blows and 
sturdy onslaughts soon learned his mistake. He was, at about the time 
he received this offer from the Ti})ics, in the very zenith of his powers and 
his fame. Mr. Hunt, then the superintendent of public schools in 
Massachusetts, thus wrote in 1873, of a trial he had just attended, in 
which Mr. Marsh was opposed to Joseph H. Choate: 

"I shall never forget the spectacle of that trial; from the opening to the close, it 
was the most perfect thing I ever saw. Having entered upon the studj' of law in 
the late William Pitt Fcssendcn's office : having seen many ahic lawyers conduct 
cases in court: — Fessenden and Evans in Maine, Rufus Choate and other great 
lawyers in Boston, and, in the South, Yancey and others — allow me to say that I 
never saw anything to be compared with the ease, dignity and power with whicii 
Mr. Marsh managed everything." 

But his splendid gifts and varied powers could not be restricted in 
their e.xercise to the energies of the law and the graces of literature. 
Equally fitted to shine in society or among scholars, in pulpit or i)ress, 
on the rostrum or in the forum ; always facile priitccf's as poet or 
preacher, essayist or journalist, publicist or philanthropist, advocate or 
orator, his unapproached range and versatility mark him indisputably 
as the Admirable Crichton of his land and age. 

During the period covered by Mr. Marsh's impressive eulogy u])on the 
character and attainments of his friend Stephen W. Indlerton. the Orange 
County bar was enriched by the weight, the intluence and the learning 
of a group of lawyers whose temperament di>inclined them to the fierce 
excitements, the rude conflicts, the temporary triumphs of the forum. 
Foremost among them was Eugene .\. Brewster, who, though he per- 
sonally argued his cases with great ability and success before the appel- 
late courts, where reason and reserve count for more than fervor and 
fluency, was unskilled in the art of swaying a jury against its will or 
snatching a verdict against the evidence. Mr. P.rewstcr's warm a<lmira- 
tion for his great preceptor. Judge John \V. Brown, may have luicon- 



474 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

sciously influenced his bearing, but his moral and intellectual equipment 
was entirely his own. This embraced a deep sense of the responsibility 
resting upon every lawyer to sustain the honor and dignity of an ancient 
and honorable profession. He scrupulously maintained throughout a 
busy and active career the high ideals with which he started out. His 
aim was to ascertain the truth, not to circumvent it ; to apply the law, 
not to evade it; to draw from the fountains of justice, not to pollute 
them. He enjoyed the respect of the courts, of his brethren and of the 
public because of his character as well as his ability, his virtues as well 
as his talents. His whole life was a steady influence working for honesty 
in the moral fibre of the community ; a persistent power making for 
righteousness ; a never-failing light guiding to the path of safety and of 
honor. In him were incarnated those conserving principles, those for- 
mative influences, those stimulating ideals, those ennobling traditions 
which impart dignity to human life, strength to human character, stabil- 
ity to human society. 

David A. Scott was another eminent member of the same group. As 
surrogate of the county for two terms his administration was distin- 
guished by an unusual display of those qualities of breadth, wisdom, 
patience, knowledge of human nature and capacity for affairs so pecu- 
liarly requisite in a probate judge exercising jurisdiction over the saddest 
controversies, disclosures and scenes ever presented for adjudication — 
contested wills, disputed claims, angry accountings, recrimination between 
brother and sister, calumniation of the dead, sordid passions and petty 
avarice disrupting old friendships and family ties. In calming these dis- 
sensions whenever possible and in deciding them whenever necessary 
Judge Scott manifested that happy blending of tact, temper, common 
sense, sound judgment, practical sagacity and professional learning so 
essential in the office of surrogate. I say judge because the title sur- 
rogate is a most unfortunate one. The office is known in other common- 
wealths as that of probate judge. People are so influenced by mere 
names that if such were the title here the claims of an able surrogate to 
public respect would be more fully understood. When it is considered 
that once in every generation the entire wealth of the county, including 
vast fortunes amassed elsewhere by those who die residing in it, is ad- 
ministered upon in this court and that nearly all the intricate and per- 
plexing questions involved in its distribution are passed upon by the 



THE HENXH AND WAR. 475 

surrogate, it will readily be seen that the <luties and responsibilities of 
this office are among the mo.'-t important, extensive and onerous that can 
devolve upon judicial officers. 

It is now nearly fifty years since David A. Scott entered upon the 
duties of this office. There are those who still remember the dignity and 
grace with which he discharged them. It is forty years since he laid them 
down. One year after the close of his second official term and one year 
after Judge Alichael H. Hirschberg had been admitted to the bar, tliey 
entered into a partnership under the name of Scott & Hirschberg, which 
continued until Afr. Scott's death. What this long, close association 
meant to the younger member of the firm he alone fully knows. Surely 
he would be the last to repel the suggestion that it doubtless profoundly 
influenced a character still sensitive and impressionable when the intimacy 
began. Indeed he himself bore affectionate testimony to this impress 
when, in the court proceedings, held to honor his dead friend's memory, 
he said : "For more than twenty-one years we have labored together side 
by side in the perfect intimacy and union of the partnership relation, an'l 
realizing how very much I am indebted to his precepts, his example and 
his support ; with only sweet and grateful memories of that connection 
now remaining, wholly unalloyed by even the momentary shadow of 
doubt or distrust, and unvexed by even an occasional suggestion of dis- 
cord or dissension — indeed one long and unbroken period of harmonious 
intercourse, of joint and cheerful endeavor, and of undisturbed confidence 
and esteem, I deem it a duty no less than a privilege to add my humble 
meed of praise to the chorus of eulog}^ which I am sure will greet his 
memory to-day." 

In closing his tribute Judge Hirschberg said, with the heartfelt concur- 
rence of the entire bar : 

"And so passed away forever an honorable lawyer, a faithful friend, a 
loving father, an estimable citizen, a good man. We will all miss his 
familiar form, his friendly greeting, and his kindly presence. Let his 
virtues be commemorated in the records of the court. Let the sweet and 
wholesome fragrance of his memory remain, to inspire lawyers, living 
and to come, to emulate his upright deeds, and to con the lasting lesMins 
of his pure and simple life." 

And now as we pause in the contemplation itf thi-< fine ami beautiful 



476 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

character there rises before the mind another figure associated with the 
days of Winfield and Gedney in Goshen ; of Fullerton, Brewster and Scott 
in Newburgh — the figure of James G. Graham. It is difficult to classify 
him in either group to which reference has been made. A constitution 
naturally delicate led him to shrink from the strife and turmoil of sharply 
contested trials and to prefer the seclusion of his office and his library. 
Yet no lawyer of the period under consideration approached him in the 
kind of oratory adapted to public and ceremonious occasions. Indeed 
James G. Graham stands in a group or class alone. None but himself 
could be his counterpart, for he was compacted of every creature's best. 
In serenity he was equal to Scott, in strength to Winfield. In counsel 
he was as wise as Brewster, in speech as gifted as Gedney. While in 
vigor of expression he may be compared to Winfield and in felicity of 
style to Gedney, yet he excelled them both in a certain tender grace, 
a poetic touch, a romantic spell, an iridescent play of fancy and sentiment 
which were the spontaneous reflection of an ardent, imaginative, spiritual 
temperament, united to and controlled by exquisite literary taste. 

He never received, either in life or in death, the public recognition due 
to his splendid gifts and exalted character. He was ever generous in his 
own praise of substantial worth. His tributes to his departed brethren 
were marked by peculiar elevation of thought and tenderness of senti- 
ment. A work professing to be history, seeking to readjust the balances 
in which the superficial judgment of contemporaries is corrected by the 
tardy recognition of posterity, should not fail to register the star of 
James G. Graham in that brilliant constellation from which Marsh and 
Winfield, Gedney and Fullerton, Brewster and Scott shed undying re- 
fulgence upon the traditions and memories of the Orange County bar. 
Let a garland of afifectionate, reverent homage entwine the memory of 
one who never failed himself to lay a chaplet of rosemary upon the grave 
of friendship. 

To this period also belongs Abram S. Cassedy. Admitted to practice 
just fifty years ago, his rise from the time that he settled in Newburgh 
was so rapid that he came into professional relations with the members 
of both groups which have been considered, though they were all ad- 
mitted to the bar several years before. Indeed he belonged to both 
groups. He was emphatically what is meant by the expression "an all- 
'round lawyer." He could work patiently and assiduously in his office 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 477 

drawing contracts and giving coinisel and then proceed to tlie court- 
room to try his cases. His knowledge of the hiw commanded the respect 
of the courts, while his earnestness and sincerity produced a favorable 
impression upon juries. He was essentially a man of affairs, equally 
at home in the bank directors' meeting, the common council, the mayor's 
office and the board of education. He was corporation counsel of his 
city and district attorney of the county. He was the executor of large 
estates and the trustee of great interests, one of the most important of 
his transactions being his sale of the West Shore Railroad for the sum 
of $22,000,000, and his distribution of the fund. In all the positions that 
he occupied and all the capacities that he filled he was animated by the 
very highest ideals of professional honor and personal probity. In many 
ways the influence of his life and the force of his example have been more 
persistent and abiding in Newburgh than in the case of lawyers whose 
fame has been exclusively in the courts. His interesting and stainless 
career affords a striking illustration of the results which may be accom- 
plished by an acute and active mind concentrated upon one leading ob- 
ject and directed in its energies by a simple, sincere, straightforward, 
undeviating devotion to the noblest standards of public duty and private 
honor. 

Looming large and masterful in the second group of lawyers, the frien 1 
and associate of Winfield, Gedney and Fullerton, who always valued 
highly his legal opinions and who frequently were influenced by them, 
though he distrusted his own ability to cope with them in court, comes the 
figure of John G. Wilkin. Twice elected county judge, the first time in 
185 1 and the second time in 1883, the interval between these elections 
was marked by the presence and the power of his persistent, aggressive, 
dominating, yet at the same time winning, gracious, picturesque per- 
sonality. Born to command, the exciting times in which he lived, covering 
the most painful period of our national history, tended to develop his 
natural powers of leadership. He had a talent for friendship. His abso- 
lute devotion to his friends in times of adversity an<l defeat confirmed a 
leadership which, however, was constantly challenged by those who. be- 
cause they couhl not control him. sought to crush him. He tasted many 
a time the bitter truth of Joubert's epigram that a man who by the same 
act creates a friend and an enemy plays a losing game, because revenge 
is a stronger principle than gratitude. But Judge Wilkin never knew 



478 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

that he liad lost. He never accepted defeat. Like his old friend Hal- 
stead Sweet, who always began the day after election to prepare for the 
next election, the hour of Judge Wilkin's defeat was the most dangerous 
one for his enemies. In the case of such a character, deeply implanted 
with the love of power for its own sake as well as for its rewards, it was 
inevitable that it should pass through many periods of storm and trial. 
But if Judge Wilkin perforce bent to the storm he never quailed before it. 
The deepest trial of his life was one that he never foresaw. This was the 
failure in 1884 of the Middletown National Bank of which he was the 
attorney and nominally the vice-president. This failure, which was pre- 
cipitated by the unsuspected acts of the president in giving up to a grain 
shipper who had acquired a hypnotic control over his mind, two hundred 
thousand dollars' worth of bills of lading without the payment of the 
drafts to which the bills of lading were attached, came to Judge Wilkin 
with all the force of a cruel and crushing accident. The spirit which 
no opposition could daunt recoiled for a moment under the stab of treach- 
ery. But only for a moment. Quickly recovering himself — though deeply 
pained and humiliated that such a distaster should come to an institution 
with which he was connected and especially to friends who might have 
been influenced by his name — the strength, the courage, the manliness 
of his royal character were never more strikingly exemplified, were never 
shown to greater advantage than at this very time. He never flinched 
from any obligation which this or any other relation, business, political, 
social or professional entailed upon him. His devotion to his clients, his 
determination to relieve them from the consequences of their own folly 
or imprudence was absolute and fearless, never taking any note of 
whether they could have avoided the plight they were in. If they were 
in trouble through no fault of their own, of course anybody would be 
glad to help them. But if they were in trouble through their own fault 
the very addition to their troubles which this reflection caused them only 
created a double claim upon Judge Wilkin's sympathies and energy. This 
is the spirit of the true lawyer, who, when appealed to in distress, has no 
more right to arrogate to himself the functions of court and jury and 
decree that his client must take his punishment than a physician has to 
refuse to cure a disease which his patient has incurred through a violation 
of the laws of health or morality. 

Judge AMlkin's interest in the young men who grew up about him never 




/^c>c^-'"^^^^^ 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 479 

deserted him. He welcomed iheir advances, he reciprocated their esteem, 
he enjoyed their companionship. His reminiscences of the older bar were 
lively and entertaining, his sense of humor keen, his exultation in life 
and all its activities throbbing and intense. He was not ready to go when 
the summons came and he made no hypocritical pretense of resignation 
to it. His was a life so full of promise and performance, passion and 
power, persuasiveness and preeminence that well may we e.xclaim with the 

poet: 

"But wliat rich lift — wliat energy and glow! 
Cordial to friend and chivalrous to foe ! 
Concede all foibles harshness would reprove, 
And what choice attributes remain to love." 

H' James N. Pronk had given the thought and attention to his own inter- 
ests that he gave to the interests of the public and to the development 
of his city he would have died wealthy and famous. In his early manhood 
when, as the only lawyer in Middletown, except Judge Wilkin, he acquired 
a large practice, he quickly accumulated a fortune sufficient to enable him 
to build and wholly pay for what still remains the finest store and office 
block in Middletown. He had nothing to do then, in order to a successful 
life, but to take his ease and accept such work as he might enjoy. But 
this was not his nature. He simply could not take his ease. He was 
possessed by the desire to originate and carry forward every public enter- 
prise that might benefit the town. He lived plainly and simply, had no 
personal indulgences, spent nothing upon himself, denied himself every 
pleasure in order that he might give himself wholly to the se'rvice of the 
public. Every pleasure indeed except that of friends and books. He 
loved the society of congenial spirits and he dwelt nuicli among books. 
But he was not selfish even in this. Instead of putting the boi)ks he 
bought into his own library he put them into a public lii)rary. He estab- 
lished the Lyceum, the fine circidating library of which gave t"> Middle- 
town its first literarv impetus. In connection with this he organized de- 
bates in which the ablest men of the comminiity discussed every moral, 
social and political (luestinn of the day. These debates brought out the 
native talent and debating jiowers of many men who otherwise might 
have been silent, notable among them Israel (\ Beattie. whose wide in- 
formation, keen rea-oning and sparkling wit arc well renieml)ere;l by 
those who know how naturally his distinguished son. Judge John J. 
I)eattie. comes by these (|ualities. 



48o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Moreover, Mr. Pronk brought to the platform of the Lyceum the 
foremost intellects of his time — Henry Ward Beecher, Wendell Phillips, 
Horace Greeley, Edward H. Chapin, Theodore L. Cuyler and many 
others. I well remember when, a few years ago at Mohonk, Judge 
Beattie and I introduced ourselves to Dr. Cuyler and mentioned Middle- 
town, he at once exclaimed: "How's my old friend Pronk?" though they 
had not met for forty years and he had not heard of his death. 

The great mistake of Mr. Pronk's life was when he mortgaged his 
line building, on the income of which he might easily have lived, in order 
to establish what became the passion and the idol of his life. Hillside 
Cemetery. But was it a mistake? Is it not success, after all, to live in 
lasting institutions? This cemetery is to-day the most beautiful resting 
place of the dead in Orange County. Over this sacred spot where he 
himself was laid, broods ever the sentiment inscribed over the tomb in St. 
Paul's Cathedral of Sir Christopher Wren, its architect — 'Tf you would 
behold his monument look about you." {Si monunicntnm quacris circiim- 
spice. ) 

Younger than any of the lawyers thus far considered, but entering 
upon his professional life while theirs was still active, and dying prema- 
turely before the close of those careers with which his own was strictly 
contemporaneous, was William F. O'Neill. Perhaps no career was ever 
more of a surprise to the public and to the profession than that of Mr. 
O'Neill From Winfield, Gedney and Fullerton with their distinguished 
lineage, family influence, county connections, social position, superior 
education, wide culture, courtly address and imposing presence much was 
expected and expectation was always satisfied. But here was a young 
man, who coming from Alonticello to study law in Middletown with 
Judge Groo and entering upon his career without any of these advan- 
tages, boldly flung himself into the courts to try conclusions with the 
ablest of Orange County's advocates and began at once to captivate juries 
and to win his cases. Small in stature, unimpressive in appearance, de- 
ficient in culture, unformed in style, averse to application, trying his cases 
with very inadequate preparation, the lawyers were puzzled at first to 
know the secret of his immediate and enormous success at the bar. It 
lay, as they soon learned, in his faculty of making the jury think that he 
always happened to be on the right side. It was like the case of the juror 
who was descanting enthusiastically upon the magnificent, unrivaled 



THE BEX'CH AX I) I'.AK. 481 

powers of Brougham as an advocate. "But,"' .said a bystander, "1 see that 
you always give the verdict to Scarlett." "Scarlett, O yes," said the 
juror. "Well, you see Scarlett is always on the right side." 

Mr. O'Neill was a natural verdict getter. He never went over the 
heads of the jury. He talked with them on their own plane of thought, 
sentiment and experience. Juries liked him personally. They felt inter- 
ested in his success. 1 remember a trial in which he obtained a verdict 
of $2,000 against the village of Port Jervis for a woman who had fallen 
upon a defective sidewalk, but who did not appear to have been much in- 
jured. After the verdict, one of the jurors, Coe Goble, of Greenville, 
asked me what I thought of the verdict, to which I replied that they prob- 
ably gave as much as the evidence justified, since she did not seem to be 
hurt much. "Well," said Goble, "it was this way — we thought the woman 
C'Ught to have $1,000 and we thought Billy ought to have $1,000." 

This familiar, affectionate reference to him as "Billy" indicates his 
place as a popular idol. Indeed the boyishness of his a])pearance and 
stature seemed to help him. People who saw him for the first time and 
who had not expected much from him, went out of the court-room saying, 
"Did you see how little Billy O'Neill laid him out?" 

Mr. O'Neill made negligence cases a specialty, and he became known 
far and wide as a negligence lawyer. Those who deprecate the rise of 
the negligence lawyer and the increase in negligence cases during the last 
forty years fail to make sufficient allowance for those changed conditions 
in the business of the world under which its various currents of capital 
and industry converge in one swollen stream of corporate enterprise and 
control. This tends, on the one hanrl. to encourage professional alertness 
in protecting the indivichial from corporate greed or neglect and, on the 
rther hand, to create extreme devotion to corporate interests seeking the 
aid of professional skill and judgment. While the zeal of attorneys in 
behalf of corporations is rarelv condemned it is somewhat the fashion to 
deprecate the negligence lawyer who takes the case of a client against a 
corporation upon a contingent fee. .\s tlu- client is usually destitute it 
is difficult to see how his case is to be presented at all unless the attorney 
takes his chances upon success. As courts and juries must determine that 
the claim is a worthy one before it can succeed, the whole iTitici-m ■^eems 
to resolve itself into the position that worthy causes and clients should be 
deprived of a hearing. This feeling can be well un'erstood on »he part 



482 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of corporations constantly compelled to pay damages on account of their 
carelessness, but the expression of it comes with poor grace from lawyers 
who receive large retainers and liberal fees from wealthy clients. It is 
at least as fair to a client to wait for compensation until the work is done 
as it is to insist on a retainer before any work at all is done. It is notice- 
able that the criticism upon the contingent fee at the conclusion of the 
case comes usually from the lawyer who expects a large fee at the begin- 
ning of the case. 

It is simple truth and justice to say that human life and limb are safer 
to-day in Orange County because that sturdy fighter and dangerous oppo- 
nent, William F. O'Neill, caring not whether his client was poor or rich, 
never allowed a case of negligence, once brought to his attention, to pass 
unchallenged and unpresented to a court of justice. And if his example 
and his influence have encouraged others, as indeed they have, in the same 
path of professional honor and public duty, then he, too, has not lived in 
vain. 

The advent of Mr. O'Neill was coincident with the rise of a new gen- 
eration of advocates who were confronted at first with a supremacy in the 
older bar which never could have been ousted by superior talent. It 
yielded at last to the only rivals it could not resist, decay and death, even 
as now the lawyers I am about to name will soon surrender to a still later 
generation their coveted place and prominence in the courts. ] say about 
fa name because, notwithstanding the considerations which suggest the 
omission of any reference to the living, it seems to be inartistic and it 
ought to be unnecessary to break ofi^ a narrative in the middle because 
some of its characters are still living. Caution and delicacy may indeed 
discourage, if not wholly forbid such unstinted praise as may be properly 
bestowed upon a finished, rounded career, far removed from possible mar- 
ring by some late and regrettable error. But, on the other hand, the 
opinion of his contemporaries by one who has freely mingled with them 
and frecjuently been pitted against them ought to be accurate, and, if 
accurate, then interesting and valuable. How we would all enjoy now 
Winfield's own characterization of Samuel J. Wilkin and William F. 
Sharpe, his partner; of Benjamin F. Duryea and Joseph W. Gott, the 
senior ; of David F. Gedney and Stephen W. Fullerton. There are his- 
tories of our own times and this is one of them. Let me proceed then, 
diffidently, indeed, but still unflinchingly, to perform the task assigned to 



THI-: r.RxcM Axn p.ar. 483 

me before the subjects and the generation chielly interested in tliein have 
all ahke passed away; appeahng to the jud.nment of those still able to 
decitle. upon the candor, fairness and impartiality of the estimates. In- 
deed, if we wait uiuil all contemporaries have passed awav. who is left 
lo determine whether the estimates are just? 

William J. Groo is older than the lawyers who came to the bar in the 
late sixties, but he falls naturally in this grou]), because he came to 
Urange County in 1866. when he at once took a foremost place among its 
trial lawyers, his reputation having preceded him. He had alreadv become 
. leader of the bar of Sullivan County, wh.ere in 1856 he was elected its 
district attorney. This leadership was, in itself, evidence of great ability, 
for he hafl to win his spurs against such intellectual giants as General 
Niven. Judge Bush, Senator Low and James L. Stewart. It is not 
strange, then, that in him W'infield, Gedney and h'ullerton found a match 
for all their powers and an equal in all the arts and accomplishment."- of 
the advocate. His perfect self-possession, his readiness in retort, his firm 
grasp of the points in controversy, his unfailing memory enabling him to 
marshal the testimony with crushing effect, his severe logic, his scathing 
^enunciation, hi-^ intrepid spirit, and. above all. his moral earnestness 
combined to make him a dreaded and formidable adversary. 

Judge Groo (for he acquired the title through his election as special 
county judge of Orange County in the year 1868) has carried this quality 
of moral earnestness, which so largely contributed to his success at the 
bar. into all the interests and relations of life. He early espoused the 
cause of temj)erancc and has long been one of the most prominent mem- 
bers of the i)rohibition j^arty, which at different times has bestowed upon 
him its complimentary but unsubstantial nomination for governor and 
judge of the Court of Appeals. He has always insisted that the absolute 
prohibition of the sale of li(|Uors in the State of Xew York is not only a 
righteous and necessary reform, but an entirely feasible one. The re- 
markable strength of this movement in the South, followed as it has been 
by recent prohibitorv legislation in several of the States, is one of the 
cheering rewards for unselfish, life-long devotion to principle which he i-^ 
permitted to enjoy in hi< declining years. There is no doubt whatever 
that his sacrifices in behalf of this cause seriously interfered with his 
later eminence at the bar. for such eminence, even when once achieved. 
'-,\u be maintained onlv bv sedulous, unrela.xed devotion; by steady, un- 



484 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

qualified, undivided allegiance to that most exacting of all masters — the 
law. 

This consecration to higher duties and nobler aims than those involved 
in mere professional success does not, however, constitute the sole reason 
why Judge Groo ceased to be a familiar and prominent figure in the 
courts of Orange County. This was due primarily to the removal of his 
office to New York, where he continued to win many notable legal 
triumphs until failing health compelled him to retire from active practice. 
His dignified and honorable repose is divided between his home in Mid- 
dletown and his summer retreat in his native county of Sullivan at Groo- 
ville, so named in honor of one of his Revolutionary ancestors. 

Though Lewis E. Carr has transferred his professional activities to a 
wider field, yet he acquired and developed in Orange County those tran- 
scendent qualities as a trial lawyer which have since, in nearly every 
county of the State, excited the astonishment of the bar and the admira- 
tion of the courts. From the very first he produced a profound impres- 
sion upon Winfield, Gedney and Fullerton, with whom he engaged in 
vigorous, courageous contest at a time when it was difficult, indeed, to 
stand up against their powerful and almost irresistible influence. But it 
was when he came to be associated with them in some most important 
trials that they were even more impressed with his knowledge of funda- 
mental principles, his wisdom in consultation, his mature and unerring 
judgment. Judge Gedney once remarked in a public tribute to Mr. Carr 
in his early life that it was possible to gain a far more accurate measure- 
ment of a lawyer's real ability through association with him than in 
opposition to him. He added that it was after enjoying such opportunities 
to become acquainted with Mr. Carr that he was the better able to express 
admiration of his surpassing talents as well as confidence in his brilliant 
future. Mr. Carr has since then enjoyed many honors and some supreme 
triumphs, but it is doubtful that any encomium has ever given him deeper 
pleasure than this now amply verified prediction by so competent an au- 
thority. 

Nothing more surely attests the eminence which Mr. Carr has attained 
in the State than the recognition of it by the Assembly of the State of 
New York in inviting him to pronounce in its chamber the eulogy upon 
its beloved speaker, S. Frederick Nixon, upon the memorial occasion 
dignified by the attendance of the Governor, the Senate and the judges of 



THE iJEXCH AX I) L'.AR. 485 

the Court t)f Appeals. In that august presence .Mr. Carr, defenthng the 
prerogatives of the State, said: 

"However much we take pride in the nation's greatness and power we 
cannot sliut our eyes to the fact that in some way, not easy to understand, 
the Fetleral Government of which we constitute no mean part, has been 
steacHly encroaching u\nm the province of the State, and year by year the 
waves of its rising jjower are biting away some part of the shore on 
which our feet should rest. * "- Preservation of tiie rights of the 

State, as the framers of the Constitution intended and provided, is as 
essential to the safety, security and perpetuity of the sisterhood of States 
as the armies that carry and defend the Bag and the navies that patrol 
the sea and protect our harbors against the dangers of attack. (Jur State 
is an empire in and of itself. Dominion over it and control of its jjrice- 
less interests are all our own, save to the narrow extent they were ex- 
pressly yielded to give needed strength and requisite i)0wer for the pro- 
tection of the whole." 

This extract gives some idea of the force and clearness which charac- 
terize all Mr. Carr's public utterances, but no extract can give any concejj- 
tion of his extraordinary powers as an advocate. The as.sembly indeed 
had already enjoyed an unusual opportunity to witness their display, for 
Mr. Carr was easily the most conspicuous and imi^osing figure in a public 
trial of great im])ortance conducted before it. in which he made the {)rin- 
cipal and prevailing argument. 15ut it is |)erhai)s in the a])pellate C(,>urts 
that !Mr. Carr's abilities find their most congenial field of exercise. There 
his ready command of all the resources of a trained, vigorous and 
richly stored it;tellect enables him to discuss every proposition pro- 
pounded by the court, or advanced by his ojiponenl, with a breadth of rea- 
soning, a fertility of illustration, an array of authority wliich never fail to 
arouse admiration and delight. Indeed in every argument or trial in which 
he engages he organizes from the outset an intellectual duel. C^ne who is 
not prepared to cojx- with him on ecjual terms, or with a cause so strong 
that it overcomes the intellectual handicap, will find it prudent not to enter 
the lists with him. 

When Mr. Carr resided in Port Jervis before going to Albany, where he 
is the general counsel for the Delaware and Hudson Company and where 
he is called as senior coim^^el into manv impi rtant cases not at all con- 
nected with railroad litigation, such was his devotion to his profession that 



486 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

it was only in exciting political campaigns that he could yield himself to 
the demands of the platform. But in Alhany so insistent and repeated 
have been the demands upon him that he has been compelled to yield more 
frequently, until now his reputation is firmly established as a platform 
speaker of rare attractiveness. A fair example of his after-dinner oratory 
may be found, in fit company and enduring form, in the book entitled 
"Modern Eloquence," edited by Speaker Thomas B. Reed; it being a re- 
sponse, at the banquet of the State Bar Association, in which, with a fine 
blending of humor and seriousness, he commends that recent revival of 
an ancient custom which has done so much already to revive and promote 
the cUgnity of the bench — the wearing by judges of the robe of office. 

The Orange County Bar has contributed to the bar of the State many 
gifted sons of whom it has been, indeed, proud — Ogden Hofifman, William 
H. Seward, William Fullerton and others — but it has never contributed 
one of whose character, ability and fame it is more justly and universally 
proud than it is of the character, ability and fame of Lewis E. Carr. 

Henry Bacon is now, indisputably, the leader of the Orange County 
Bar. His career has been marked by a singleness of devotion to his pro- 
fession rarely equaled. It was interrupted at one time by his service for 
five years in the House of Representatives, in the debates of which he 
bore an honorable part, impressing himself most favorably upon the 
leaders of his own party and those of the opposition. But his heart was 
all the time in the law. which he keenly enjoys as a science and reveres as 
a master. Returning to Goshen at the expiration of his congressional 
service he threw himself with renewed ardor into the practice of his pro- 
fession to which he has since applied himself with undeviating purpose, 
persistency and power. The position of leadership now held by him is the 
natural, inevitable and only consistent result of high endeavor and unfal- 
tering purpose united to intellectual gifts and legal qualifications of a 
superior order. Mr. Bacon has the legal instinct. He is not content until 
he has penetrated to the heart of the mystery. He revels in a perplexing 
and complicated case. He loves to unravel its intricacies and explore its 
mazes. 

Mr. Bacon has in the past twenty years tried more cases than anv lawyer 
in the county. He is retained in nearly every important trial. His mani- 
fest knowledge of every principle of the law involved in the case always 
commands the respect of the court and of the bar. In presenting his 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 487 

views to the jury he rehes upon logic rather than eloquence, upon con- 
secutive force of argument rather than the arts of persuasion. In the 
celehrateil case of Magar vs. Hannnond his opening afldress to tb.e jury 
upon the second trial was a masterinece of clo-ie. coherent, cumulative 
and convincing statement. 

Mr. Bacon is never more interested than when he is confronted with 
-ome grave question of constitutional construction. His attack upon the 
constitutionality of the drainage law, which was declared invalitl by the 
Court of Appeals upon the arguments advanced by him, and in which he 
was opposed by the eminent advocate John G. Milburn. will be long re- 
membered. 

All lawyers are true to their clients, but Air. Bacon's intlexiiMlity in the 
assertion or defense of his client's rights is uncompromising to the last 
degree. It has even been said that, in his zeal an;I ardor, he is willing to 
trample upon all the ties of private friendship and all the claims of per- 
gonal courtesy. But no client was ever heard to complain of this and, 
after all, the fact remains that no lawyer can serve his clients with abso- 
lute fidelity without, at times, wounding his neighbors and his friends. An 
honest lawyer can know no one but his client and him crucified. His 
standard of morality and manners, of duty and decorum is exjiresscd in 
the sentiment, "Stop pursuing my client and I have no further quarrel 
with you." Air. Bacon typifies this spirit and embodies this principle 
in his professional life more strikingly than any lawyer who has ever 
l)racticed at the bar of Orange County. 

On the other hand. Air. Bacon's social gifts and graces are in the high- 
est degree winning and attractive. One would never suspect, in the velvet 
palm that greets him at his threshold, the iron hand that crushed him 
but the day before in court. One would never recognize in the beaming, 
graceful host the hard-headed lawyer who, wdth stern, unflinching pur- 
pose, will destroy him to-morrow. United in marriage to the brilliant and 
accomplished daughter of one of America's purest anrl noblest statesmen, 
Saiuuel J. Randall, his home is a center of charming, courtly and gracious 
hospitality dispensed wMth lavish, refined and unaffected gencrositv. Mr. 
I'.acon is the only lawyer in Orange County who has ever both recognized 
and fulfilled his social duty to his brethren of the bar by throwing open 
his home to them in receptions intended to bring the judges and the 
lawvers together in social relations. In olden davs and in other counties 



488 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

this custom once prevailed. Possibly it is because Orange County labors 
under the misfortune of being a half-shire county — a calamity to any bar 
for the reason, besides many others, that it effectually destroys the possi- 
bility of having a suitable court house — that a spirit of comradeship 
among its lawyers has never grown up. It is noticeable that in counties 
where the legal interests converge in one central county seat the brotherly 
spirit is more active. But, however that may be, Mr. Bacon is entitled 
to the grateful acknowledgment of his efforts to suspend the asperities 
of professional conflict in the solvent of social converse. In this, as in 
every other respect, his leadership of the bar is supreme. 

Walter C. Anthony preceded Mr. Bacon a few months in their student 
life with Judge Gedney at Goshen. No one has painted so perfect and 
beautiful a picture as he of those halcyon days in that country law of- 
fice. In his memorial tribute he said : 

"But of all the delightful hours spent with Judge Gedney I recall, with 
most pleasure, our afternoon talks at the office. As the day was wearing 
late and he began to make preparations to leave, he usually seemed to 
want to draw me into conversation. Frequently it took the form of an 
examination as to those branches of the law which I was then reading 
upon. Occasionally he would draw me into the discussion of some legal 
question, in which he would maintain an opinion opposed to that which 
J expressed, and in which after combatting me, with all his ingenuity and 
acuteness and frequently discomfiting me, he would in the end explain 
the whole question and point out the errors of either side of the argu- 
ment. At times some event of the day's work would be used as a founda- 
tion for an explanation of the legal questions involved. In whatever way 
the conversation was begun his evident purpose was that it should be 
profitable to me in connection with the studies I was pursuing ; and when 
that end had been accompHshed our conversation would wander on 'at its 
own sweet will,' touching on many and varied themes which all developed 
new beauties and suggestiveness beneath the light of his varied learning 
and fertile fancy. Is it to be wondered at that I recall them with a 
chastened delight? Judge Gedney was then in the very prime of his re- 
markable powers. His mind was a storehouse of varied and interesting 
knowledge, and his conversational and descriptive skill were not only 
very great, but quite unique. 

*T shall always regard it as one of the most fortunate circumstances of 



THH IIHXCH AXl) I'.AR. 48.J 

my life that 1 was brought into such intimate association with Daviil 1'. 
Gedncy. And as my hfe passes on into the 'sere and yellow leaf and I 
sit among the lengthening shadows of its afternoon looking back ujjon 
the friends and friendships of my youth, I shall very, very often recall 
Judge Gcdney — the slender, erect figure ; the strongly marked face ; the 
scant but expressive gesture ; the wonderfully melodious and well n'lOdu- 
lated voice; the words so deftly chosen from a vocabulary surpassingly 
rich and full, that they always reminded me of the sentence in holy writ : 
A\'ords fitly spoken are like apples of gold in pictures of silver;' anil 
above all I shall recall his kind and generous deeds, the fit exponents of a 
loving, loyal heart; and, thus recalling him, I shall often in the future 
exclaim — as I have already in the past — in no empty phra^^e and with no 
exaggeration of speech : 

'Oh for the touch of a vanished hand 
And the sound of a voice that is still!'" 

This extract is made not solely to embellish the [)ortrait of Julge 
Gedney, the man — though I indeed left it unfinished intending thus to 
invoke Air. Anthony's aid in completing it — but also to illustrate Mr. 
Anthony's own cast of mind, character and literary style. Mr. Anthony 
is by nature and inclination, a scholar and a recluse. If he were rich he 
would shut up his office and browse in his library ; but not selfishly, for 
no one has been more generous than he in responding to demands for 
public and literary addresses. I heard him once, before the Chautauqua 
Assembly, give a purely extemporaneous lecture upon wit and humor 
which for range of reading, wealth of information, critical analysis and 
brilliant characterization has never been surpassed by our most famous 
lecturers ; and yet it was delivered with a modesty, sweetness and sim- 
plicity which seemed to deprecate the suggestion that it was anything out 
of the ordinary. 

His memory of Judge Gedney unconsciously reveals how deep wa> 
the impression made in youth upon a mind singularly susceptible to the 
ciiarms and graces of literature and upon a nature no less susceptible to 
the beauties and joys of friendship. As in the case of all such natures. 
the books must be choice and the friends fit but few. Not, indeed, that 
Mr. Anthony is deficient in the elements of per.sonal popularity. His 
election twice to the office of district atlornev of the countv, the duties 



490 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of which he most ably discharged, attests his popular strength. But it is 
undeniable that his predilection for the society of the great and wise of 
every age, to be found in his well-filled library, has tended more and more 
to withdraw him from the society of the shallow, the superficial, the 
frivolous. He stands to-day a lonely but alluring figure, on whose heights 
those who choose to follow may find in him the charming companion, tht 
accomplished scholar, the earnest inquirer,* the inspiring instructor. 

Let no captious reader take cynical exception to the note of honest 
praise sounded in these memoirs. Let it be remembered that, out of hun- 
dreds of lawyers, only a few of those entitled to admiration and praise 
have been selected for extended mention. While personal memoirs should 
be accurate they need not be exhaustive. In those rare instances in 
which conspicuous talent has yielded to temptation and, in weakness or 
dishonor, forfeited public respect, it has seemed to be the truest kindness 
to pass over it in silence. Indeed, as one surveys the procession down 
half a century of those who have become notable in the law he is pro- 
foundly impressed that not by infirm, invertebrate character have they 
gained their prominence but only by firm resolution, high endeavor, 
moral purpose and intellectual power. One is led to wonder not that 
there should be so few entitled to praise, but that there should be so 
many. Impartial criticism will demand of the contemporary chronicler 
not that his praise be stinted, but only that it be discriminating. 

Indeed only the most unstinted, unqualified praise would be either just 
or appropriate in summoning from that stately procession of great and 
honored lawyers the lofty, imposing figure of Judge John J. Beattie, who 
for eighteen years — 1889 to 1907 — presided over the County Court of 
Orange County, having been elected for three successive terms. His 
dignity of presence, weight of character and wealth of learning amply 
sustained the traditions of a bench once occupied by Gedney and Fuller- 
ton. Many of Judge Beattie's decisions have been in cases of far-reach- 
ing public importance — notably the case involving the construction of the 
eight-hour law in which Judge Beattie decided that the provision pro- 
hibiting a contractor from allowing his men to work over eight hours 
a day on a public improvement was unconstitutional and void. The Ap- 
pellate Division reversed but the Court of Appeals affirmed Judge Beattie 
in an opinion sustaining every position which Judge Beattie had taken in 
his opinion. 



THE DEXXH AND UAR. 491 

Judge Beattie is grounded in llie principles of tiie law. In all that he 
does he is thorough, going to the very bottom of the case whether as to 
the law or the facts. This quality was strikingly brought out in the case 
tried by him for eight days before Judge Madd(xx involving the liabiHty 
of a railroad company for the damage resulting from the explosion of a 
locomotive boiler. There was absolutely nothing about a boiler that 
Judge Beattie did not understand. One would have supposed that he 
had been brought up in boiler works and had then run an engine on the 
road. He succeeded in dividing the jury an<l Judge Maddox said after 
the trial that he had never seen a finer display of sheer intellectuality 
than Judge Beattie's management of the defense. 

He is an omniverous reader and his marvelous uuukmx retains all 
that he ever read. His conversation is an intellectual feast, for he pours 
out a never-failing stream of literary anecdote, historic incident and 
choice passages from the classics of every age, all ready to gush forth 
from his well-stored memory as the conversation n^lance'? from one sub- 
ject to another. ' 

Judge I'eattie carries into his retiremeni 11 om uk- i <iumy i. nurt liic 
gratitude and respect of the bar and of the public for the fine example 
of judicial dignity and learning which he has given for eighteen years — 
an example which may well be followed not only by all who succeed him 
in the County Court, but by all who administer in the same court houses 
and from the same bench the wider jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. 

Having considered several leaders of the bar who came into practice 
in the late sixties, but who. like their predecessors, Winficlfl, Gednev and 
Fullerton, were never invited to the bench of the Supreme Court, we come 
now naturally to that group of their early associates who have achieved 
judicial honors, those honors which have always held a glittering fascina- 
tion for the bar whether in the wearing ov the recounting of them. There 
never have been enough judgeships to go arounrl and the long tenure 
now established wholly excludes rotation among the leaders of the bar 
in respect to judicial position. ITence the prospect that any member of 
the bar, however able, will ever attain judicial honors is so remote anrl 
depenrlent upon so many unforeseen conrlitions that when thev do de- 
scend and repose upon the modest brow of some highly favored but 
always unenvied brother, the circumstances combining to pro'hice such 
a fortuitous seJection possess all the charm of romance and all the fa«ci- 



492 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

nation of a fairy tale. While it is true that many unforeseen conditions 
must always unite in determining" the destination of this coveted prize, 
there still seems to be one inexorable condition to which all Orange 
County aspirants must conform. They must not reside in the interior of 
the county. They must practice in the old, historic city of Newburgh — a 
city which has always taken a deep, honorable, patriotic pride in its 
Revolutionary associations and in the land they represent, but which has 
no more pride in, no more sense of connection with, Orange County as 
a whole than West Point has. Its bar has always been distinguished for 
great ability and high character. 

The Supreme Cotirt of the State of New York, the wide jurisdiction 
of which extends from Long Island to the St. Lawrence and the Lakes, 
was never more fortunate than in the acquisition to its bench from the 
Newburgh bar of the two Browns, father and son — John W. Brown and 
Charles F. Brown — the elder having ascended the bench in 1850 and the 
younger in 1883. 

It is Charles F. Brown who belongs to the period we are now consider- 
ing. Graduated from Yale College in 1866, admitted to practice in 1868, 
elected district attorney in 1874 and county judge in 1877, he resigned in 
1882 the position of county judge to assume the duties of supreme court 
judge. 

Mr. Winfield had always ardently desired a position upon the bench 
of the Supreme Court. It was one of the bitterest disappointments of 
his life that he so narrowly missed this object of his ambition in 1875, 
when Judge Dykman was elected. In that year the widespread revolt 
among the bar and public against the re-election of that most unpopular 
official. Judge Tappen, who had received the regular democratic nomina-. 
tion, made it evident that any independent .democratic candidate who 
should receive the endorsement of the republican convention would be 
elected. Mr. Winfield's hopes of receiving this endorsement rose high 
and were on the point of being realized when an unexpected influence in- 
tervened to dash them. General Benjamin F. Tracv, who had a long- 
standing personal feud with William Fullerton, the brother of Stephen 
W^ Fullerton, stiddenly came to the conclusion that he did not want upon 
the bench an intimate friend of the Fullertons. He therefore threw his 
influence in favor of Jackson O. Dykman, then a prominent democratic 
lawver of Westchester Countv. Avho thus received the nomination. His 



THE P.ENCH AXIJ r>AR. 493 

election by a large democratic and republican vote confirmed tbe pre- 
diction that such a coalition would easily accomplish the defeat of Judge 
Tappen. Orange County, notwithstanding that it shared ]\Ir. Winfield's 
disappointment, followed his generous lead in supporting Judge Dyknian 
and gave him a majority of 10,000. No one labored for Air. Winfield's 
nomination at this time more earnestly than Charles F. Brown himself. 

In 1882 Mr. Winfield's hopes of obtaining a nomination revived, but 
Charles 1*". Brown, who cherished the natural and honorable ambition to 
emulate his father's noble example and distinguished career as a jurist, 
felt that he ought not to stand aside again. He of course secured the 
delegate from his own assembly district without opposition. Overcoming 
the opposition offered by Air. Winfield's friends in the second assembly 
district, he secured its delegate also. By thus presenting a united front 
Orange County was able to successfully assert its claims in the judicial 
convention and to secure for Judge liruwn the nomination that was fol- 
lowed by his election. 

No one was more gratified by Judge I'.rtiwn's election than Air. Win- 
field himself, especially as it involved the defeat of General Tracy, the 
very man who, seven years before, had snatched from him the same 
prize when almost within his grasp. When General Tracy, of Kings 
County, was nominated by the republican convention against Judge 
Brown, of Orange County, he confidently expected to defeat Judge 
Brown, whose greatness was then unknown to the district at large. 
through the promised support of many large Brooklyn interests. But all 
his calculations were confounded by a wholly unexpected event. This 
was the cataclysm in which Grover Cleveland, wath whom Judge Brown 
was running, carried the State by the enormous, unprecedented majority 
of 200.000. 

Thus was Orange County enabled to contribute to the bench of the 
Supreme Court a jurist who. in the fourteen years of his incumbency, 
made a profound, a lasting impression upon the jurisprudence not only of 
his State but of his country. 

After serving for six years with great acceptance in the trial and 
special terms, he was, upon the formation of the second division of the 
Court of Appeals, promoted to its bench. His services during the four 
years' existence of that court were of the highest value, his luminous 
opinions being still quoted and followed in every State in the Union. 



494 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Some of the litigations which came before him were in the highest de- 
gree difficult and compHcated; one of the most important being the case 
involving the construction of the Tilden will, in which the opinion of 
Judge Brown, declaring the trusts invalid, was adopted by the court. His 
opinions rendered in this court constitute an imperishable monument to 
his learning and ability. 

Judge Brown's manner upon the bench, at trial and special term, was 
a happy mingling of simplicity and dignity. His most noticeable personal 
trait was his entire lack of self -consciousness. He never thought about 
himself or about the impression which he might be making upon the bar 
or the public. His mind was wholly upon the case and upon the prin- 
ciples involved in it. He was considerate of the feelings of counsel and 
rarely rebuked them for imperfect presentation of their views. When 
they wandered from the point he thought about the case and when they 
came back to the case he followed them again. It is simply the truth of 
history to say that the members of the bar, not only of Orange County 
but of the entire State, do not expect to see in this generation a nearer 
approach to the ideal judge than they were permitted to behold duruig the 
fourteen years of Judge Brown's incumbency. 

There was one marked characteristic of Judge Brown while upon the 
bench which deserves more than a passing mention. After a case was 
submitted to him and while it was still under consideration he was never 
afraid to enter upon a discussion of the principles involved in it. with 
either of the counsel he might happen to meet, if he felt that such a dis- 
:ussion might prove profitable. In this respect he differed from som^- t'" 
his colleagues who were perfectly aghast at the thought of counsel con- 
versing with them upon any phase of a pending case in the absence of op- 
posing counsel. This of course was due to their high sense of the im- 
portance of preserving not only real impartiality but the strictest appear- 
ance of impartiality. But there was something in Judge Brown's char- 
acter which did not need the protection of such a rule ; something in the 
very atmosphere which he threw out ; something in the impression which 
he gave of being simply a thinking, working, impersonal, intellectual ma- 
chine, which left no room for misunderstanding on the part of any lawyer 
thus admitted to a share in his deliberations and which left his judicial 
independence and impartiality absolutely untouched. This capacity at 
once constitutes the highest test and the consummate type of the strictly 





L-lACZ^i^ 



THE I'.KXCll AXl) r.AK. 495 

judicial temperament. To this test Jiuigc Jiiown easil}' respuiuled and 
of this type he was the perfect embodiment. 

Xo one can be accused of sycophancy in awarding to a judge long 
since retired from the bench his merited meed of praise and gratitude 
for distinguished public services. Nor even in the case of judges still 
occupying the bencli can such a charge fairly lie when the faithful his- 
torian surveying and reviewing, from the serene heights of retirement 
and rejection, the stirring scenes in which once he bore an active part, is 
now as indifferent to, as independent of, the opinions of judges as they 
are of his. It would indeed be far more entertaining if there could be 
contributed to this volume the opinions which the judges hold of each 
other, thrown into literary form instead of merely being promulgate.! 
from the bench or disseminated by the press. When, upon the occasion 
of Queen \"ictoria"s jubilee, the judges met in London to prepare an 
address to Her Majesty, the proposed draught submitted to them iK'gan 
with the words, "Conscious as we are of our shortcomings," whereupon 
Lord Bowen gravely suggested, as an amendment, "Conscious a-r we are 
of each other's shortcomings." Human nature is very much the same 
liere and in England; very mucli the same, in its manifestations, among 
judges and among lawyers. 

Judge William D. Dickey ascended the bench in 1896, one year before 
Judge Brown's retirement from it. The second judicial district, of 
which Orange County then formed a part, was for many years demo- 
cratic and it was not unusual for the republican conventions to endorse 
the democratic nominations. But in 1895 t-li<?i"e seemed to be such a fair 
prospect for success that the republicans put forward a full ticket of 
judicial nominees, including Judge Dickey, who was elected, though one 
of his associates upon the ticket, Hugo Hirsch. of Brooklyn, was defeated 
by Judge Martin J. Keogh. whose court ought to be attended every year 
by visiting delegfations of judges from all parts of the State as a training 
school and object lesson, illustrating how a busy judge may at all times, 
in all circumstances and under all provocations still be the model, fault- 
less, consummate gentleman. 

.'\lthough Judge Dickey removed from Newburgh to Brooklyn soon 
after his election and is counted as a judge of the second judicial district, 
while Orange County is now a part of the ninth judicial district, still 
Orange Coimty is where he was born; where his profc^sioml life was 



496 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

passed ; where he rose to prominence and power, and where he hved 
when he was elevated to the bench. He exhibited even in boyhood the 
quahties which have marked his pubhc career, his patriotic ardor inspir- 
ing him to enlist in the Union Army when only seventeen years of age ; 
his promotion being so rapid that before he was twenty years old he had 
been breveted colonel in recognition of conspicuous gallantry. 

Admitted to practice soon after the close of the Civil War he threw 
himself with characteristic energy not merely into the legal contests 
which arose in his city, but into all the public and political controversies 
of the day. Ardent in his affections and implacable in his hatreds, loyal 
to his friends and relentless to his enemies, he soon acquired an extensive 
influence and attracted to himself a devoted following, both personal and 
political. 

The public spirit and civic pride shown by Judge Dickey in promoting 
every enterprise tending to beautify or benefit his native city was gener- 
ally recognized and his election to the constitutional convention of 1893 
was a distinct turning point in his career. His ability, vigilance, au- 
thority, force of character and readiness in debate, soon gave nim a dom- 
inant influence in the deliberations of that highly intellectual body — an 
influence aided by his commanding presence and resonant voice, advan- 
tages not without value in that most difficult of all auditoriums, the as- 
sembly chamber in the Capitol at Albany. Among the many far-reaching 
reforms which he proposed or advocated in the convention he undoubt- 
edly looks back with special satisfaction upon the provision incorporated, 
with his active support, in the new constitution prohibiting any legislative 
limitation upon the amount of recovery for death occasioned by negli- 
gence, since he has had abundant occasion in his experience upon the 
bench to verify his convictions of the justice, necessity and public policy 
of this amendment. 

Judge Dickey displays upon the bench the same sterling qualities which 
marked his active professional career. Among them none is more pro- 
nounced than his remembrance of and kindness to old and valued friends. 
The exercise by a judge of the patronage necessarily pertaining to his 
office has always been a trying question for him. But since one lawyer 
has no natural, superior claim over any other lawyer upon the fruits of 
patronage, there seems to be no reason why a judge should not be per- 
mitted to gratify his feelings of friendship and esteem in the appoint- 



THE BENCH AND WAR. 497 

nicnt of referees whom he knows to be not only e>linKible but entirely 
capable. No one questioned this sentiment or principle of conduct when 
Indite l>rown appointed his old friend and partner, Mr. Cassedy reterec 
to sell the West Shore railroad, or when he appointed his old friend, 
William Harvey Clark, of Minisink, receiver of the Port Jervis and Alon- 
ucello railroad; ^Ir. Clark, by the way, provin^j to be so capable a re- 
ceiver that he !iot only paid its debts but surprised the stockholders by 
handing- over to them a larg^e amount of money. 

But in the distribution of patronage Judge Dickey has not (>nly been 
loyal to the claims of private friendship ; he has nobly used it in the 
lecognition of the debt which the public owes to distinguished public 
services and sacrifices. I know one able lawyer whose ])hvsical infirmi- 
ties disqualify him from active practice at the bar, but whose eye is still 
as clear, whose judgment as alert as when, from the heights of Gettys- 
burg, he directed the Federal forces on the first day of the battle and 
-aved the fortunes of the day till they could be turned and redeemed upon 
the morrow. In appointing this old hero to important service in various 
public condemnation proceedings, in which his sound judgment and wide 
experience have been utilized to the public benefit. Judge Dickey has en- 
titled himself to the gratitude of all who believe that conspicuous worth 
and patriotic service should not be forgotten and neglected by judges any 
more than by governors or presidents. And personal gratitude is no less 
due to Judge Dickey from all those whose appointment by him to posi- 
tions of trust and responsibility has enabled them to justify his own un- 
erring judgment as to their fitness and capacity. 

It was in the autumn of 1902 that Judge Dickey was called upon to 
l^ass through the first deep sorrow of his life in the loss of his only son, 
Frank R. Dickey, cut off in his young manhood at the very beginning of 
h.is promising career at the bar. Born antl educated in Newburgh he 
had followed his father to Brooklyn, where he established himself in 
])ractice and where he soon won a large and growing clientage. His solid 
abilities; his pure, lofty character; his open, sincere nature; his refined, 
engaging manners; his gentle, amiable disposition united to create a per- 
sonality of singular charm and interest. Troo])s of new friends, attracte-l 
to him by the graces of a sweet and beautiful character, joined with those 
who had always known pnl loved him in heartfelt -orrow over the un- 
timely grave of Frank R. Dickey. 



498 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Judge Dickey's wide experience in affairs, with his knowledge of 
human nature, its secret springs and devious ways, enables him to arrive 
at decisions always prompt and usually just. His influence upon the 
bench has always been powerfully exerted in support of the domestic 
virtues and social purity. Gambling, which is fast becoming one of the 
most threatening of our national dangers, as it is already one of the 
most degrading- and corrupting of our social vices, whether practiced by 
men in policy shops, or by women at bridge parties, finds in him, when- 
ever it comes within his judicial purview, neither countenance nor toler- 
ation. 

There is one trait of Judge Dickey upon the bench which calls for 
special mention. When, in an action which has been tried and decided 
by him, without a jury, the attorneys come before him for settlement of 
the case upon appeal, he does not seek to emasculate the appeal, as some 
judges in their weakness and vanity do, by striking out the exceptions 
designed to bring up sharply for review the points of difiference between 
him and the defeated counsel. He always gives the unsuccessful and dis- 
satisfied litigant a fair opportunity to review every issuable ruling and 
to get a reversal if he can. He is not hyper-sensitive upon the subject 
of being sustained by the appellate courts. Indeed, his mental attitude 
toward them is doubtless reflected in the remark once made by the 
famous judge. Lord Young, when he was told that one of his decisions 
had been affirmed upon appeal by the House of Lords, "Well, I may have 
been right, notwithstanding," said Lord Young. 

As Judge Dickey has never been assigned to the Appellate Division 
and much prefers the close contact with the bar and with vital human 
interests which is enjoyed by judges constantly engaged in trial term 
and special term, he has never felt called upon to accompany his decisions 
Avith opinions of any length. Wlien he does write, his opinions are clear, 
terse and sententious. Indeed there is very little satisfaction for a judge 
at special term in v/riting elaborate opinions, only to find them arrested 
and archived in that mere vestibule of fame, that hall of unmerited but 
predestined and pathetic oblivion known as the Miscellaneous Reports. 

But the waters of a cruel, though often kindly, oblivion can never wholly 
submerge the fine superstructure of judicial fame reared bv Judge Michael 
H. Hirschberg upon a foundation of singularly exclusive, concentrated, 
severe, professional, intellectual and litcrarv training. Born and reared 



THE BENCH AND UAR. 499 

in Xcwburgh, but cuiniiig- lu practice at the bar without those intermediate 
college a(lvantage^ enjo}ecl by his life-long friend and associate, Judge 
JJrown, wlumi he succeeded upon the bench, he has, nevertheless, strik- 
ingly •veritietl the saying of Carlyle that, after all, books are the best uni- 
versity. During all the years of his professional activity in Orange 
Count}- he ^e(lulously, patiently wrought out, cultivated and perfected a 
cri>p, nervous, virile, epigrammatic, yet withal, polished, mellifluous, or- 
nate and opulent English style which constituted an admirable discipline 
and equii)ment for the very field of juristical service in which he was later 
destined to engage. 

Elected in 189O to a seat upon the bench, he was, after a brief period 
of service at trial and special terms, assigned to the Appellate Division, 
and later, upon the retirement of Judge Goodrich, he was appointed the 
presiding justice of the court. This was the opportunity for which his 
slumbering, but not unready, accomplishments long had waited. Then 
ensued the disclosure to his judicial associates and to the bar of the State 
of those attainments as a writer and as a jurist, which had long been 
known to the bench and bar of his county and his district. While com- 
parisons are often more dangerous than odious his career almost inevit- 
ably reminds one of that literary lawyer, known then chiefly for his 
writing of "The Blue and the Grey," who was summoned by his friend, 
Governor Cornell, from his scholarly seclusion at Ithaca to take a seat 
upon the bench of the Court of Appeals; and who thereupon enriched the 
literature of the law with a body of opinions, unrivaled for English style 
ami judicial learning, which have entranced and instructed two gencra- 
tion> of lawyers. Equally true is it of Judge Hirschberg that already has 
he permanently enriched the Reports of the Appellate Division with a 
series of opinions which, for lucidity of statement, force of reasoning, 
felicity oi style, and perfect command of the literary implements adapted 
to the expression of exact distinctions or delicate discriminations, stand 
unrivaled in the pages of these imposing volumes, which will long per- 
petuate his fame as a judicial writer. 

One characteristic of Judge Hirschberg during his brief service in 
holding trial terms should be mentioned, because no ponderous tomes can 
reveal character. Contemporary history nmst transfix for posteritv the 
personal traits and manners of a judge. When Judge Hir.schberg was 
elected even hi- intimate friends supposed, from long familiarit\- with his 



500 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

extraordinary quickness of mental action, his scintillations of repartee in 
social life and his swift rejoinder at the bar, that he would show some im- 
])atience with the slowness, dulness and density due to imperfect prepara- 
tion or inherent inaptitude, which every judge is called upon, uTore or 
less frequently, to endure ; that- he would find it dit^cult to restrain the 
bubblings of wit and sarcasm at the expense of ignorance or incapaciiy. 
But on the contrary, he proved to be the most gentle, indulgent and long- 
suffering of judges. The wearisome lawyers might drone on, he made no 
effort to take the trial of the case out of their hands and try it himself, 
sre could try it better than they, but he felt it his duty to let them try it in 
their own way. No one could tell what he was thinking of them or their 
methods. He might be a maelstrom of seething disgust or amusement 
within ; but he wore the impassive, inscrutable, incommunicative exterior 
of a sphinx. Under the responsibility of his great office he unconsciously 
developed and engrafted that quality which Judge Jenks in his impressive 
eulogy upon Judge Wilmot M. Smith declared to be almost the greatest 
attribute of a judge — infinite patience. • 

And since the entire bar of Orange County regarded with peculiar af- 
fection the character of Judge Smith and now holds in deepest veneration 
his sacred memory, it is not amiss to incorporate in this record that ex- 
pression of its feelings by Judge Hirschberg himself, which sheds a re- 
flected light upon his own standards of duty and with which this attempt 
to limn his portrait for succeeding generations may fitly close: 

"Judge Smith was truly an ideal jurist, profound as a lawyer, estimable 
as a citizen, lovable as a man. The mortal part of each life ends neces- 
sarily in nothing but an insignificant contribution to an immense volume 
of pathetic dust, but the spiritual sense is satisfied when, as in this instance, 
the ashes are sanctified with the memory of a noble life devoted to duty 
and glorified with the love of God, of justice and of humanity." 

And now, having sought to project upon the canvas a faithful por- 
traiture of the judges who were drawn into the public service from the 
Orange County bar, within the period embraced in these personal recol- 
lections, it is convenient and fitting at this time to briefly outline the condi- 
tions of practice which prevailed in Orange County at the time they came 
to the bar — Judge Dickey in 1866 and Judges Brown and Hirschberg in 
t868 — when Winfield, Gedney and Fullerton were at the zenith of their 
]-»owers and their reputation. It is a great niistake to assume that the 



THE 1;E\'CH AXU 15AR. 501 

older members' of the bar were satisfied willi these concHtions. On the 
contrary, tliey bitterly chafed under them. The number of judges was 
wliolh' inadequate to the needs of the district, as will readily be seen when 
it is considered that twenty-five judges are now required to serve the same 
territory then covered by only four judges ujjon whom devolved all the 
motions, trials and appeals arising and lieard within it. The ever-increas- 
ing volume of business created by the rapid growtii of Brooklyn made 
it impossible for the judges to hold a trial term — then called the "circuit 
ttM'm" — longer than five days. The judges were indeed upon a circuit, for 
they were always under assignment to oi:)en court in some other county on 
the following Monday. Every Thursday afternoon or Eriday morning 
the judge marked off the calendar every case which could not be tried in 
time to enable him to leave on Eriday afternoon in order to hold his Sat- 
urday special term. This arbitrary, inexorable limitation of time, which 
was equivalent to sluUting out many cases that had been carefidly pre- 
pared, was most cruel to the younger meml)ers of the bar whose sole 
chance of either emolument or distinction lay in getting their cases tried ; 
wiiilc to say that these conditions were satisfactory to the older members 
of the bar of that period would violate the truth of history. They always 
unduly and often indecently accelerated the trial of important cases in 
which advocates like W'infieltl and Gedney were spurred to an undignified 
celerity which was not merely distasteful but detestable to them. Iloth 
W'infield and Gedney were tenacious of dignitv. deliberation and decorum 
in the administration of justice. They disliked extremely to l)e told. "Cio 
on with the case, gentlemen," or to be askel, "W^hat are you waiting for?" 
They could not share the glee manifested by the judge when he succeeded 
in having three juries "out" at one time, and boasted to the justices of 
Sessions at his side how he was "ex]:)editing the business." Thev. too, 
wanted the business advanced, but they wanted it done with due regard to 
the traditions and tlie usages of the bar. W'infield was especiaily the dis- 
tinct representative in this county of the old Websterian school of advo- 
cates. He believed earnestly in the maintenance of all that form and 
dignity, of all those ancient usages an 1 j^-oprieties wliicli once uniformly 
marked the relations to each other of the bench and bar. When in 1874 
I met him in Albany to argue my first case in the Court of Appeals, tlien 
presided over by that most urbane jurist. Judge Sanford E. Church. Mr. 
Winfield carefullv attired himself on the mornincr of the ar<rumenl in a 



502 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

full-dress black suit with its broad expanse of shirt front, now used only 
for evening wear, but regarded at that time as a suitable uniform for ap- 
pearance before the highest court in the State; just as, at a slightly earlier 
period, Webster and Pinckney appeared before the Supreme Court at 
Washington in blue coat and brass buttons, with buiif waistcoat. How 
different from the present when able lawyers in short sack coats of gray, 
looking like commercial travelers, hasten from the Albany station to the 
two o'clock sessions of the court without stopping to even remove the dust 
of travel before launching into their keen and brilliant arguments. 

When Judge Joseph F. Barnard, of Poughkeepsie, upon the transfer of 
judge Lott to the Court of Appeals in 1869, became the presiding judge of 
the old general term, he became also the presiding genius, the dominating, 
all-pervading spirit of the second judicial district. He was opposed to 
any increase in the number of judges. With his insatiable voracity for 
work and his preternatural velocity of thought, enabling him to accomplish 
as much alone as the other three judges combined, he thought that four 
judges ought to be fully able to keep up with all the business of the dis- 
trict; as indeed they were if the administration of justice, involving the 
most profound issues of human life and society, had been merely a matter 
of getting the business out of the way. as on a wharf, to make room for 
the next cargo. 

The judges, fresh from their several circuit terms, met in the general 
term and proceeded to hear appeals from the decisions made by themselves 
at special and trial term. It was, indeed, an impressive, inspiring and 
solemn spectacle to see Judge Tappen and Judge Gilbert gravely consider- 
ing whether they would reverse Judge Barnard ; and in the next case 
Judge Tappen and Judge Barnard sitting upon Judge Gilbert. Of course 
the tacit challenge, "You reverse me, I'll reverse you," pervaded all the 
proceedings. Nothing else could be expected of human nature. It has 
never been pretended that the State supplies lawyers with any superior, 
exclusive brand of human nature when it gives them their diploma, and 
judges are simply lawyers upon the bench. That an appellate system 
should ever have been devised so exquisitely adapted to defeat its object 
and destroy respect for its operations was not, of course, the fault of the 
judges of the second district. 

When the general term sat in Poughkeepsie, as it did every May, to 
accommodate Judge Barnard, the business was disposed of even more 



THE JJEXCli AXD iJAK. 5^3 

rapidly than in Brooklyn, Judge Barnard greeting- with <lelight any 
lawyers who wouKl appear at eight o'clock in the morning, both ready 
to argue their appeal in advance of the regular session. The judges con- 
stantly interrupted the attorneys to assure them that they could not possi- 
bly remember what they said but that they would read their briefs. It was 
of course true that no human mind could retain or even grasp the argu- 
ments discharged at the court as from a catapult by attorneys gasping 
for breath in the mad race against time. 

Some amelioration of the intolerable conditions under which circuit 
terms were held in Xewburgh and Goshen was effected through the elec- 
tion in 1870 of Judge Calvin E. Pratt, whose conservatism, affability and 
dignity won for him universal respect. This improvement was extended 
by the election in 1880 of Judge Edgar M. Cullen, whose high sense of 
absolute fairness to all suitors alike led him to devote as much time and 
thought to a case involving a trifling amount as to one involving large in- 
terests ; though even he was merciless in his infliction of night sessions 
upon the attorneys during the hot June term at Goshen, a course to which 
he felt impelled because of his inability to remain longer than one week 
and his desire to crowd as much work as possible into that wliolly inade- 
quate time. 

The comfort and convenience of the Orange County bar and the in- 
terests of litigants were served to a still greater degree by the election in 
1882 of Judge Charles F. Brown. Though he could not extend the trial 
terms beyond two weeks, on account of his assignments to other counties, 
still he held a special term every .Saturday at New'burgh where, by con- 
sent of counsel, many cases were tried that otherwise Would have been 
tried before a jury, thus affording great relief to the overtaxed calendars 
of the trial terms. 

From that time to the present there has been a steady reaction against 
feverishness and ferment as a suitable atmosphere for judicial proceedings 
and a gradual return to calm, neutral, deliberate, dignified, decorous 
methods of judicial procedure, mitil finally, for the first time in the history 
of the county, a four-weeks' lorm of coin^t was held in February. 1007 ; 
this being one of the first fruits of the formation of the ninth judicial 
district, consisting of the river counties alone — a change which was op- 
posed by some Orange County lawyers but which is now generally recog- 
nized as. in the highest degree, conducive to the convenience and interests 



504 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the bar and of the public, though it does involve some additional 
burdens upon jurors. 

Forty years ago the familiar excuse made by judges for dispatching 
business with unseemly haste was their solicitude for the time and con- 
venience of the jurors. Indeed there never was a judge more popular 
than Judge Barnard among jurors, witnesses, spectators and the public. 
They admired the celerity of his movements and they were vastly enter- 
tained by his caustic remarks to counsel. But his remarks about counsel 
and witnesses during the progress of the trial were far more entertaining 
and racy than any the public was permitted to hear. The favored persons 
privileged to hear these were his associates upon the bench of the old 
Oyer and Terminer, since abolished and now merged in the Supreme 
Court. They were drawn from the justices of the peace of the county and 
with the presiding judge constituted the criminal branch of the court. 
Squire George A. Durland, of the town of Greenville, who sat in this 
capacity next to Judge Barnard at many terms of court, never tired of 
telling about the trenchant, scathing, witty commentary kept up by the 
judge upon every incident of the trial, the counsel engaged in it and the 
witnesses sworn upon it. 

During Judge Barnard's entire tenure of ofifice the plea of not taking up 
the time of the jurors was invoked to override every other consideration. 
Not even death itself was superior to it or sacred from it. When Mr. 
Winfield died on the tenth of June, 1888, and court convened at Goshen on 
Monday, the eighteenth of June, Judge Cullen suspended the regular 
business of the court at four o'clock to allow a suitable tribute to his 
memory, including several addresses in addition to the resolutions. But 
when Judge Gedney died, a month later, there was no opportunity to 
take formal action upon his death at a trial term until the regular No- 
vember term. Accordingly, when court convened at Newburgh the 
twelfth of November an informal request was made to Judge Barnard for 
an opportunity to pursue the same course in respect to Judge Gedney's 
memory that had been adopted at Goshen in respect to Mr. Winfield. 
Judge Barnard promptly and firmly refused to allow the time of the jurors 
to be taken up in this way, adding: "Why, he's been dead some time, 
hasn't he ?" So it became necessary to change the plan and to ofifer simply 
a motion "that a committee be appointed to present at a meeting of the bar 
of Orange County to be hereafter called suitable resolutions." That there 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 505 

should be further delay in honoring the memory of this great lawyer and 
brilliant advocate, after there had already been a necessary delay of four 
months, is not a reproach that rests upon the bar of Orange County. A> 
the motion occupied only two minutes it was promptly granted and the 
committee i)urposed to present the resolutions at the following term of 
court to be held at Goshen in January, 1889, which was expected to be 
presided over by Judge Brown. But when Judge Brown was transferred 
to the Court of Appeals he became disqualified from holding the term and 
Judge Barnard unexpectedly took his place. Admonished by previous ex- 
perience no attempt was made to present the resolutions at that time or 
to apply for permission to make addresses in honor of Judge John G. 
Wilkin, who, also, had meantime died. So the tributes of the Orange 
County bar to Judge Gedney, Judge Wilkin and Surrogate Henry A. 
Wadsworth, whose death also had occurred, were massed together at a 
meeting of the bar presided over by Judge Brown on Saturday, the second 
day of February, 1889, seven months after the death of Judge Gedney, 
without those customary adjuncts to the dignity of the occasion — the 
crowded court room ; the attendance of litigants, jurors and witnesses 
from all parts of the county ; the solemn pause in the business of the court; 
the impressive silence ; the strained, eager attention of old friends in the 
audience to the last tributes of respect for one they loved; all of which 
were not only appropriate but. indeed, imperative in honoring one who 
had so often held that very court room silent, captive, enthrallc 1 by the 
spell of his genius. 

If Judge Gedney's brethren had felt, in the first instance, that a tribute 
to his memory at a mere meeting of the bar would be appropriate and 
adequate, it would not have been delayed seven months, as such a meeting 
could have been called at any time after his death. That it was not so 
called shows the strength of a sentiment which was ruthlessly trample 1 
upon by judicial contempt not merely for all the traditions of the bar but 
for all the sacrcdncss of love and death. 

.'\t the same time the bar always recognized with gratitude the earnest 
desire on the part of Judge Barnard to transact all the business that he 
could and to accommodate the bar as much as possible. It was this dis- 
position that led to his constant sifjning of ex parte orders without looking 
at them, trusting to the honor of the bar not to impose upon him ami, al<o, 
to a motion by the other side to vacate anv improvi<lent order. The 



5o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lawyers, through long custom, so came to prefer this system that they 
resented any departure from it by new judges who could not take this 
view of their duties. When Judge Brown's transfer to the second division 
of the Court of Appeals led to the Newburgh special terms being taken by 
Judges Cullen and Bartlett, the bar practically boycotted them m favor 
of Judge Barnard's Saturday term at Poughkeepsie, merely because both 
Judge Cullen and Judge Bartlett manifested a very decided preference to 
know what they were signing. Gradually, however, the lawyers learned 
that this course was not intended as a reflection upon the bar, buc as a 
help to it, in preventing any such mistake or oversight as might lead after- 
wards to serious consequences. Of this I once witnessed a striking illus- 
tration. An attorney desired an order to examine a party before trial 
in a case in which the examination of his adversary was absolutely essen- 
tial to his success in the litigation. Judge Bartlett sent the atfidavit back 
to him three times for correction and the order was finally sustained in 
the Court of Appeals because of the sufficiency of the affidavit. All this 
involved to Judge Bartlett conscientious labor and minute examination 
which he might well have shirked and which judges generally consider 
counsel have no right to expect of them or to impose upon them. 

Judge Barnard was the most conspicuous of all the judges in his anxiety 
to save the lawyers the trouble of travel in order to transact their business. 
He instructed the Orange County attorneys to mail to him an order desig- 
nating a referee of their own choice, to compute the amount due in fore- 
closure cases, with the report of the referee signed by him in anticipation 
of his appointment, together with the judgment of foreclosure ; where- 
upon he signed at the same time both the order of reference and the judg- 
ment of foreclosure, promptly mailing them back, although it was physi- 
cally impossible that the referee should have acted in the interval between 
his appointment and the judgment. This practice, which is now regarded 
as irregular and which even the most accommodating judges now dis- 
countenance, resulted in no harm, for it rested upon the most implicit 
good faith on the part of the attorneys, while the confidence of the judge 
was never, in a single instance, abused. An incident strongly illustrating 
this trait of Judge Barnard also grew indirectly out of Judge Brown's 
transfer to the Court of Appeals. Judgments of foreclosure in cases in 
Sullivan County had usually been taken before Judge Brown at New- 
burgh because, though in another judicial district. r)range Countv is an 



THE BENCH AXD DAR. 507 

adjoining county and this is permitted by the code. But soon after 
judge Brown left Xewburgh an attorney, overlooking the fact that 
Dutchess County does not adjoin Sullivan, sent the papers in a Sullivan 
County foreclosure case to Judge Barnard to be signed by him on Satur- 
day at Poughkeepsie. His eagle eye at once noticed that the action was 
in Sullivan County and that he had no jurisdiction to act in the case in 
Dutchess County. Any other judge would have returned the papei-s, 
calling attention to the ditlticulty. But did this satisfy Judge Barnard? 
Not at all. This would not have advanced the business. This would not 
have "helped out the boys." So he struck out the word "Poughkeepsie" 
in the order and judgment and in his own handwriting substituted the 
word "Newburgh," thus making himself, by a legal fiction, sit in an 
adjoining county for five minutes, for the purposes of that case, though 
he was actually in Poughkeepsie all that day, and though he never held 
a Saturday special term in Newburgh in all his life. Judge Cullen and 
Judge Bartlett would have felt that they were inviting impeachment by 
such an act, and yet Judge Barnard was moved solely by the desire to 
facilitate the business of the attorneys in every possible way. To him an 
irregularity meant nothing unless it meant also a wrong. But those days 
have passed and have been succeeded by better days, in which it is recog- 
nized by the courts and the lawyers alike that they should co-operate in 
making even their routine practice so regular as to exclude any possiliility 
of error. 

There will be no sigh in this retrospect over the better days of long ago, 
no wail about the "good old times." The better days are now and the 
good times have come at last. The new generation of lawyers now enter- 
ing upon their active career has reason for gratification that the facilities 
for the orderly, deliberate, tranquil trial and hearing of their causes, with 
the prospect that even and exact justice will be rendered in them, are 
greater to-day than at any previous period in the history of the county. 
There never was so good an opportunity for a young, ambitious, able 
advocate to win fame at the bar of Orange County as there is to-day. 
While the subjects of litigation and the conditions of business have some- 
what changed in the last fifty years, human nature has never clianged. 
Juries respond to-day as readily as then to the touch of a master spirit. 
When jurors ask nowarlays why they do not hear such speeches at court 
as their fathers have told them about the answer generallv given is that 



5o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

judges frown upon anything like display and hold the lawyers down to 
business. The business of an advocate is to make a good speech and no 
judge ever was able to stop a good speech. Let no young lawyer seek 
indolent refuge in the pretext that the judges will not give him a chance. 
Let him not, with difficulty, fold his restless pinions lest they be arrested 
in their soaring flight by judicial insensibility. No, the reason that 
forensic eloquence has so lamentably declined in Orange County lies not in 
the hostility of judges, but in the absorption of lawyers themselves in 
the merely material, sordid aspects of life, to the exclusion of any interest 
in those liberal' arts and erudite pursuits which alone can anoint the hesi- 
tating lips with the honey of eloquent discourse. The field is clear for 
another Winfield or Gedney. 

It is the fashion to say that the influence of the bar has declined — that 
the legal profession, as a body, does not enjoy the same measure of pub- 
lic respect which was paid to it in the early days of the republic, or exer- 
cise now that ascendency over public opinion which once it exerted so 
powerfully and so naturally. It is true, indeed, that coincidently with the 
stealthy, sinister growth in the Northern States of the modern machine 
methods of party management the lawyer has been graduallv and inevit- 
ably displaced as a leader of public opinion. It is only in the South that 
the influence of the lawyer among the masses is still unshaken because 
there the appeal of candidates is still made directly to the people who, 
through their primaries and in other republican ways familar to the 
fathers and founders of the nation, express their preference and give 
effect to their choice. 

But it is significant that, even in the North, whenever the people at 
large resolve to destroy long-standing abuses or odious machines, as, at 
stated intervals, they always proceed to do, they turn instinctively, as of 
old, to the plain, simple, honest, busy, practicing lawyer. Among the 
lawyers elected to the high office of governor of our State the three gov- 
ernors whose homely, direct, straightforward methods have most capti- 
vated the imagination and impressed the conscience of the passing gen- 
eration are Tilden, Cleveland and Hughes, who simply brought to their 
duties the habits, the instincts, the training and the ideals of the old- 
fashioned country lawyer, whose first aim is always to protect the inter- 
ests committed to his charge without any thought as to the efifect of his 
course upon his own interests, popularity or future. This training, this 



THK P.ENCH AND BAR. 509 

tiadilidn, this character of ihc tnie lawyer still happily survives all 
changes in political methods or i^arty management and still constitutes 
the highest security the people have for the faithful administration of 
their laws, wholly unswerved hy selfish, ulterior or sinister purposes. 

At the time, now forty years ago, to which my memory of the Orange 
Couniy l)ar runs l)ack, these honorahle traditions were wholly maintained 
hy a bar, the members of which still enjoyed a high place in the public 
esteem and exercised a profound influence upon public opinion, based 
upon the dignity and im])ortance of their i)rofession as well as upon their 
])ersonal talents and character. The relations between the lawyers and 
tlie farmers were particularly close, confidential and agreeable. The 
soil was still largely occupied by men of character, education and intel- 
ligence who freely sought the counsel and society of their friends among 
th.e lawyers at whose of^fices and homes they were as cordially welcomed 
on a social or political call as upon a professional visit. The reason that 
the sons and successors of the lawyers of that day have, to some extent, 
lost touch with the interests of the soil is that the farmers of that day 
were not able to persuade their sons to become their successors. The 
saddest change that has overtaken Orange County in the last forty years 
is not in the character of its professional men, but in the character of its 
farming population. 

Identified with the period included in the personal recollections here 
but partially preserved are several groups of fathers and sons who may 
for convenience be considered together ; especially as a sufficiently con- 
secutive view of the period has now been presented to admit, henceforth, 
of greater latitude in respect to time and order. 

Joseph W. Gott, senior, died in 1869 after twenty-seven years' con- 
tinuous practice in Goshen, where he established the enviable reputation 
throughout the county of being one of the most honorable and high- 
minded men, as well as one of the most able and successful lawyers, 
known to his generation. His premature and deeply regretted death 
occurred before his only son could be admitted to practice. 

Joseph W. Gott, Jr.. was admitted in 1875 and since then, like his 
father, has practiced continuously in Goshen. No higher praise can be 
bestowed upon him than to say, that while he has. by his own vigorous 
intellect and independent character, won for himself prominence at the 
bar. he has never lo^t <ight of the high ideals which animated his father. 



510 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The general confidence in his supreme honor and integrity wiiich he has 
always enjoyed corresponds most touchingly to the confidence and re- 
spect always inspired by his honored father. With him is now associated 
in practice his own son, Percy Van Duzer Gott. These two are men- 
tioned first in the group of fathers and sons because they are the only 
lawyers in Orange County, thus associated, who constitute and represent 
four generations of Orange County lawyers. For in them flows not only 
the blood of the elder Gott, but the blood of the Van Duzers and the 
Gedneys. 

Isaac R. Van Duzer, who married in 1826 the older sister of Judge 
Gedney — their daughter, Charlotte, being married to Joseph W. Gott in 
1847 — was, undoubtedly, the most brilliant advocate, with the single ex- 
ception of Ogden Hoffman, who ever addressed an Orange County jury. 
All the accounts of contemporaries and all the traditions of the bar unite 
in this verdict. Often have I heard Judge Wilkin, who as a boy heard 
him in Goshen, expatiate upon his transcendent powers. He died pre- 
maturely in his fortieth year, but the opinion entertained by his genera- 
tion was that, had he lived, his name would have gone down to history 
with the foremost orators of his age. Of their distinguished ancestry at 
the bar of Orange County the Gotts may well be proud; for the junior 
member in the present firm is now the fourth in a line of lawyers whose 
practice and residence at Goshen have extended over a period of eighty- 
five years — from 1823 to the present time. 

John W. Brown was admitted to practice in 1822, just one year before 
Mr. Van Duzer, to whom he was related, Judge Brown having married 
a Reeve, which was the family name of Mr. Van Duzer's mother. It is 
remarkable that if the practice of Judge Brown and of his own son, 
Charles F. Brown, had not been interrupted by extended terms of judi- 
cial service in the life of each — sixteen years in the life of the elder Brown 
and fourteen years in the life of the younger — the continuous practice of 
the two Browns would now cover a period of eighty-six years. As it is, 
their contributions in two generations to the jurisprudence of the State, 
at the bar and on the bench, cover a longer period than that embraced in 
the careers of any father and son associated with the legal annals of 
Orange County. I say still associated because, although Judge Charles 
F. Brown is now one of the two or three acknowledged leaders of the bar 
of the State, with his office in New York City, where his practice is 





, ^^€^^^X<^^i^(Z~^ 



Till-: I'.EXCH AXn I'.AK, 



511 



largely in the Appellate Courts, he still rclaiub lii.> residence in Orange 
County and a nominal connection with the firm established in Newburgh 
by his former partner, Mr. Cassedy. 

His own career has already been sutificiently treated in its appropriate 
place in this commentary. It only remains to add that his life-long 
veneration for his father's memory and his consistent emulation of his 
father's example supply an element of interest to his career and of 
filial tenderness to his character not appreciatetl by the thousands of his 
admirers, among the judges and lawyers of the country, who know him 
■ !ily through the cold medium of his published judicial opinions. 

judge John W. Brown was undoubtedly a great man. Serving two 
terms in Congress from 1833 to 1837; a prominent member of the 
Constitutional Convention of 1846; elected in 1849 to the Supreme Court 
and again in 1857, his life was one of unceasing activity, influence and 
power. His greatness as a judge may be inferred from the remarkable 
circumstance that no decision made by him was ever reversed by the 
Court of Appeals, of which court he was himself a member, under the 
system then prevailing, during the last years of his successive terms as 
a judge of the Supreme Court. 

It is not strange that one who was born to the heritage of such a name 
should have sought to add, as indeed he has added, to its luster in a suc- 
ceeding generation. 

It was while Charles F. Brown was district attorney of Orange County 
that Jolm A\'. Lyon became an official of the county through his appoint- 
ment to the office of assistant district attorney. The career of the Lyons, 
father and son, now covers a practice of sixty-one years in Port Jervis, 
the longest period of continuous practice at the bar carried over from 
father to son, in Orange County. 

Thomas J. Lyon, or, as his friends affectionately preferred to call him, 
Tom Lyon, was a man of great native talent and marked originality. 
Beginning life as a Methodist preacher, but coming to prefer the more 
extended opportunities for usefulness afforded by the law. his fame in 
the fifties soon spread from the Delaware to the Hudson. Throwing 
himself with ardor into the exciting political contests which marked this 
period, he was in constant demand as a campaign speaker and his poli- 
tical services were recognized by a lucrative appointment under the 
administration of President Franklin Pierce. Twice elected to the As- 



512 . THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

sembly and once a candidate of his party for the Senate, his abiUties 
always received the cordial recognition of the public with whom he kept 
constantly on good terms. The announcement that he was to speak at a 
political gathering was always sure to attract a large attendance of ad- 
herents of the opposite party for they knew they would be entertained 
by his sallies though they might not be seduced by his arguments. 

His control over juries was due to a mingling of magnetism and 
humor. He could touch the chord of sentiment and the response was. 
immediate. He could cover his opponent with ridicule and the result 
was contagious and convulsive laughter. No weapon is more powerful 
at any time than gentle banter and no one knew better how to employ its 
arts to the discomfiture of an adversary than Thomas J. Lyon. 

His son, John W., inherits his ability and much of his originality. 
He, too, has always taken a deep interest in politics and he has been 
heard on the platform in every campaign since 1872. 

He was the pioneer of the bar in that branch of the practice which 
has since assumed such proportions, railway litigation. He was the first 
to carry to the Court of Appeals many important questions, relating to 
the liability of the master for injury to the employee, which were settled 
by that court jn favor of the positions contended for by him. 

A most interesting feature in the genealogy of the profession is the 
fact that the daughter of John W. Lyon, Frances D. Lyon, is also a 
lawyer duly admitted to practice, having supplemented her studies in her 
father's ofifice by a course at the Cornell Law School from which she 
graduated with honor, subsequently passing her examinations before the 
State Board. She is now engaged in practice with her father, to whom 
her aid is invaluable in the office, while she has also shown marked ability 
in her appearances at court. 

Thus we have in the Lyons the only family in Orange County, except 
the Gott family, in which there have been three successive generations 
of lawyers bearing the same name. 

Eugene A. Brewster and George R. Brewster cover a period of sixty 
years' continuous practice, the elder Brewster having been admitted in 
1848. The judgment of his associates, placing Eugene A. Brewster in 
the front rank of the lawyers of his time, has already been expressed. 
L^pon his death his son, George R., succeeded to his practice in the same 
office to which for so many years the friends of his father were accus- 



THE BENCH AND UAR. 513 

toniod to bend their steps and where they never received any but the 
most wise and jndicious counsel. George R. Brewster inherits the sound 
judgment and conservative instincts of his father and well maintains the 
(!ignity and responsibilites of his honorable name and lineage. His public 
-pirit anil devotion to every worthy cause are among the most conspicuous 
i)f his traits of character. Possessed of ample means and under no spur 
of necessity he gives freely to the public all the time he can spare from a 
practice which has been attended with great success, one of the most no- 
table of his recent legal victories having been gained in restraining the 
building of a railroad across his client's property. 

His sense of civic duty has been strikingly exemplified in the consci- 
entious performance of his duties as supervisor, though his acceptance of 
the office involved great inconvenience and sacrifice. His labors in be- 
half of St. Luke's Hospital have been of inestimable value to that noble 
benefaction. 

In a community as conservative as Newburgh, where one minister is 
>till acceptably serving his congregation for the fifty-second year and 
another for the thirty-fifth, it counts for something, and very properly 
so. that a man should be the son and successor of an honored, respected 
father. When Mr. Brewster died his son was made a director of the 
Xewburgh ISank in his father's place and when Abram S. Cassedy died 
the same course was taken in the Quassaick Bank in respect to his son, 
William F. Cassedy. 

The Cassedys, father and son, cover a period of fifty-one years' con- 
tinuous practice, the elder Cassedy having been adnntted in 1857. The 
high jilace gained by him in the esteem of the bar and in the confidence 
of the public has already been set forth at length. This confidence has 
been transferred to his son, William F. Cassedy, to a degree almost un- 
precedented in the career of a young practitioner but in every sense justi- 
fied by his high character and brilliant talents. Mr. Cassedy has during 
the last few years managed and represented estates of as great niagnituile 
as the estates represented by all the other lawyers of Orange County 
combined. He has a special talent for this important branch of the prac- 
tice, but, like his father, can drop his papers and go to court with his 
case well prepared for trial. The ability with which he uniformly presents- 
it to a jury i-^ well rcen forced bv the same winning maimer and pleasing 
per.-onality which has endeared him tii so ninnv friends. 



514 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

When Judge Charles F. Brown was in 1883 elevated to the bench 
of the Supreme Court, the firm of Cassedy & Brown, of which Abram S. 
Cassedy was then the senior member, was, of course, dissolved. When 
Judge Brown retired from the bench in 1897, j\Ir-.- Cassedy having- mean- 
time died, the names became transposed, the firm of Brown & Cassedy 
then formed, and still continuing, being" composed of Judge Brown and 
William F. Cassedy. That this association of his name with that of 
his old partner's son should be pleasing to Judge Brown is a distinguished 
mark of that great jurist's confidence, esteem and affection which in- 
deed, are shared by all. bar and public alike, who come to know the pure 
and lofty character of William F. Cassedy. 

William B. Royce who with his son, Herbert B. Royce, is engaged in 
practice in Middletown, was admitted forty years ago, but being per- 
suaded, while in the full tide of active practice, to accept the position of 
president of the First National Bank in 1875, his career as a lawyer was 
interrupted for seventeen years. Resigning this position, however, at 
the end of this period, he soon recovered his scattered practice and upon 
the admission to the bar of his son the firm of William B. and Herbert 
B. Royce was formed. This continued until the autumn of 1906 when, 
John C. R. Taylor, having been elected to the Senate, the firm of Taylor, 
Royce & Royce was formed. 

Mr. Royce has greater capacity for public business than any lawyer 
who ever practiced at the bar in Orange County. His mind grasps 
readily, his tastes run naturally to, every phase and variety of town, 
county and municipal relations, improvements and enterprises, with all 
the important questions involved in them in respect to the proper dis- 
tribution of public burdens. He is an authority upon corporation law 
in respect both to the organization and management of corporations. 
His power of clear statement, in respect to any involved or intricate 
situation, is very great. 

There is one characteristic of Mr. Royce which is fully appreciated 
only by those who have been in a position to see its frequent effective 
exercise. He loves to settle disputes among neighbors and litigants. 
He has genuine talent for making each party see how it would benefit 
him to make some concession and even greater tact in pointing out how 
certain concessions necessary to the settlement will still leave the pride 
and dignity of the parties uncompromised. He absolutely has never 



THE L;EXC11 and iJAR. 



0"^^ 



failed in bringing about an agreement which he >tarle(l out to conipa>s. 
S(:'nietinie>, indeed, the perverseness of the parties has seemed to make 
tlie (HfticuUies insuperable, but this lia^ only .spurred him (ju to renewed 
exertions. Those who know how unprofitable and unwise for both 
parlies i> any litigation which can possibly be avoided and. especially, any 
litigati(.in representing onl\- an honest difference of opinion, will realize 
the indebtedness of the public li> Mr. Koyce for those unselfish excr- 
tii>n> and that salutarx iuHuence which, throughout his entire profes- 
>ion:il career, have been steadily. consislentl\ and successfully directed to 
the promotion of peace and the soothing of angry controversy. 

I lis son. Herbert l'.. Koyce, who enjoyed the advantages of bnth 
the classical and law course at Cornell I'niversit}-. was launched frcjm 
the first into the activities of a busy office. Having been elected special 
county judge he has enjoyed an opportunity, in ])residing over the trial 
terms of the County Court, to impress his abilities upon the bar and 
the public to a degree and in a manner never before enjoyed by a special 
ctiunty judge in the entire history of the county. IJefore Judge Beattie's 
time the count}- judges were never very considerate to the special county 
judges. They regarded them as officers provided merely for the con- 
venience of the bar in signing orders and they affected to think that 
tiiere might be S(«ne serious question of jurisdiction involved in their 
trying and sentencing criminals, i'ven Judge Hirschberg and Judge 
r>eattie were never invited, as special county judges, to hold a term of 
court, but the judges, w hen they could not act themselves, always brought 
in a county judge of a neighboring county. Judge iieattie acted more 
generously to his official coadjutor and when it became necessary for him 
to surrender two terms of court. Judge Royce was re(|ueste(l to hold 
them. This service was performed by him with such marked abilit\'. 
and so greatly to the satisfaction of the entire bar and ])ublic, that Judge 
Seeger, who succeeded Judge Beattie in 1907, and who was disc|ualificd 
from sitting in an\- cases in which he, as district attorney, had procured 
the indictments, again summoned Judge Royce to the bench, when again, 
he was enabled to give a ])ublic demonstration of his judicial fitness and 
capacity and to prove that it will never be necessary to call in a judge from 
a neighboring county as l<^ng as Judge Rovce remains special coimtv 
judge. 

Finn & Fimi is the name of the firm nf which Daniel Finn was the 



5i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

senior member until it was ruthlessly dissolved by the untimely hand 
of death, which overtook him without warning in the very midst of an 
unusually active and prosperous career. Admitted to the bar in 1870 he 
began and, for thirty-five years continued his practice in Middletown, 
becoming one of the most respected and influential of its citizens as well 
as one of the ablest and most trusted of its bar. He was especially 
versed in the law of wills. Nothing appealed more strongly to his in- 
terest than the ambiguous provisions of a will and the difficult questions 
raised as to their proper construction. His opinions upon these were 
often submitted to the court with the result that his judgment was in- 
variably sustained. 

He was the most imperturbable of men. Nothing agitated or even 
ruffled him. He could lay down his pen to engage in an interview with 
some irascible client and, after it was over, calmly resume work upon his 
thoughtful brief at the very point at which it had been interrupted. 
This faculty, the result of training as well as of temperament, enabled 
him to accomplish a great deal of work. The day was never spoiled for 
him by some untoward incident, unpleasant letter or peevish client. Each 
day marked distinct progress in some appointed task. 

Mr. Finn, who drew the will of Mrs. Thrall, was deeply interested in 
the noble institutions founded by her — the hospital and the library in 
addition to the park — and it was largely through his influence that her 
thoughts were directed to these beneficent objects. It was also through 
his careful prevision that her testamentary wishes in respect to an addi- 
tional endowment for the hospital were not defeated by statutory pre- 
cautions. Mr. Finn foresaw that she might die within the two months 
set apart, arbitrarily and without respect to testamentary capacity, by 
the inscrutable wisdom of the legislature as the fluctuating hiatus, that 
may or may not turn out to be the vitiated period, within which testa- 
mentary benevolence must be suspended; within which all tardy attempts 
of the passing soul to make its peace with God or restitution to man- 
kind must be overruled and nullified in favor of worthless or distant 
relatives ; but still within the last day of which the cunning physician 
seeking to cheat death of its prey and rapacity of its spoils, might so 
galvanize into convulsive life the dissolving frame, might so fan into 
flickering flame the vital spark that, in the race between greedy kindred 
and melting charity, rapacity will lose by a single hour. In the case of 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 517 

Mrs. Thrall there was no such dramatic suspense. She (he'l twenty 
days after the execution of lier will ; so that the bequests in her will 
and codicil of twenty thousand dollars to Thrall Hospital, already 
foundetl by her, were declared void. But Mr. T'inn also advised her 
to give to her executors, Isaac R. Clements and Nathan M. Hallock, in- 
dividually, absolutely and outright all legacies which might for any rea- 
son be declared void or ineffectual, and this provision was incorporated 
in her codicil. After this provision had withstood in the courts the at- 
tacks of relatives wdio claimed that it represented a secret trust, equally 
as abhorrent to legislative solicitude for relatives as a direct charitable 
bequest, Mr. Clements and Mr. Hallock, in honorable recognition of Mrs. 
Thrall's wishes, as expressed in her defeated bequests, but under no legal 
compulsion so to do, turned over to Thrall Hospital the twenty thousand 
dollars which came to them absolutely under this alternative provision. 
Thus were Mr. Finn's wisdom and foresight, not only in respect to his 
client's provision for the hospital but in respect to her bequest to the 
city of Middletown for its library, amply justified by the event. The be- 
quest of $30,000, for the library was sustained by the courts. These 
noble foundations — the library and the hospital — constitute an enduring 
monument to the generosity of S. Maretta Thrall but are no less a monu- 
ment to the learning, skill and prescience of Daniel Finn. The people ot 
Middletown, though they have always recognized his virtues and his 
abilities, but imperfectly understand the full measure and extent of 
their indebtedness to his guiding han I and ])ul)lic spirit. It is simple 
justice to his memory that the incidents of his professional career bear- 
ing upon the public welfare should be embraced in any work professing 
to be history. 

Mr. Finn's intense affection for and loyalty to his alma maicr, Hamil- 
ton College, was a very pronounced and interesting trait of his character. 
His only son, Frank H. Finn, also graduated from this classic institution 
of learning which numbers among its alumni that most intellectual of 
all living American statesmen, Elihu Root. 

Frank H. Finn, upon being admitted to practice, entered into partner- 
ship with his father under the firm name of Finn & Finn — the name under 
which, notwithstanding his father's death, he and his present partner. Ar- 
thur H. Payne, himself also a graduate of Hamilton- College, conduct 
their business. Every writ and process issued by the present firm runs in 



5i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the name of Finn & Finn, thus perpetuating the potent influence, the fine 
example and the gentle memory of one of the purest and ablest of Orange 
County lawyers. It is unusual among lawyers to preserve the name, in 
a firm, of a deceased partner. The only instance I recall is that of James 
C. Carter, whose surviving partner, Lewis Cass Ledyard, has always, with 
a tenderness and delicacy of sentiment so in consonance with his own noble 
nature and chivalric character, kept Mr. Carter's name at the liead of liis 
firm, through all ensuing changes. The filial reverence shown by Frank 
H. Finn for his father's memory, his unwillingness to let his father's name 
disappear at once beneath the cold waters of swift forgetfulness, illumi- 
nates his own strong and sterling character. Called upon suddenly to as- 
sume charge of many intricate and involved cases pending in the office at 
the time of his father's death he accepted and discharged the painful re- 
sponsibility with a dignity, firmness, manliness, courage and ability which 
commanded the admiration and won the affection of the community. 
Though he owes much indeed to his noble father, he has given abundant 
evidence of his capacity to stand alone. He and his brilliant partner, Mr. 
Payne, will bring no reproach upon the honored name still in their pious 
keeping. 

Henry W. Wiggins came to the bar two years later than Daniel Finn. 
The business established by him in Middletown in 1872 is now carried on 
by the firm of Henry W. & Russell Wiggins, father and son. 

Henry W. Wiggins is especially distinguished for his knowledge of the 
law of real estate, but his practice has always covered a wide range. I well 
remember an important litigation between mill owners in which Mr. Wig- 
gins established the right of the upper owner to substitute a turbine for 
an overshot wheel and to take water at a lower depth, provided he did 
not use a greater quantity of water than before. Hi'; success was the 
more notable and gratifying because he was opposed by both Mr. Brewster 
and Mr. Winfield. But it has been in litigations involving the liability of 
tlie city of Middletown for damages that Mr. Wiggins has won many of 
his most conspicuous triumphs. He was, at intervals, its corporation 
counsel for many years, his son Russell now holding" the position. It is 
safe to say that no cit}- was ever more ably served and carefully protected 
than the city of Middletown was by Mr. Wiggins. No expensive con- 
demnation proceeding in his charge ever proved inefifective because of 
some flaw or oversight. No suit for damages defended by him ever ter- 



■ 




H 




^H 




^^H 


^^ ^' fl 


H^ 


^^j ^|||j|||l_a 


^B 111 


i 


[^^ ^^(B 


J[l 











Charles G. Dill. 



THE 15E.\CH AXIJ» I'.AR. 519 

niinated in an extreme or excessive verdict. His caution, vigilance and 
conscientiousness combined with his sturdy independence in always stand- 
ing his ground, in always adhering inflexibly to any position once, after 
due consideration, taken by him, have been of incalculable service to his 
clientage and have resulted in saving to the city of Middletown alone many 
thousands of dollars. 

Russell Wiggins also has enjoyed marked success in defending the in- 
terests of the city. His recent victory in a case involving the validity 
of the provision in the charter of the city of Aliddletown making notice 
to the common council of snow or ice upon a sidewalk prerequisite to an 
action for injuries sustained in consequence of it, has attracted wide 
attention. Mr. Wiggins w-as overruled by the special term and by the ap- 
pellate division which held that this provision exceeded the powers of the 
legislature and was, therefore, unconstitutional. But 'Sir. Wiggins suc- 
ceeded in convincing the Court of Appeals, which, in an opinion embody- 
ing the arguments advanced by him, sustained the validity of this ])ro- 
vision of the charter, with the result that all actions of this class are prac- 
tically done away with, it is not surprising that all the cities of the State 
have been so impressed with the importance of Mr. Wiggins' victory that 
they are now trying to secure a similar provision m their own charters. 
It seems, indeed, somewhat hard that a total stranger, alighting from a 
train on a dark night, should be compelled to proceed at his peril along a 
city .street, under conditions which physically exclude his either having or 
giving notice, but ]\Ir. W^iggins ingeniously persuaded the Court of Ap- 
jieals to say that this is a question for the legislature and not for the courts, 
thus establishing a new precedent, if not a new principle, in constitutional 
construction, in a case sure to become a leading one ; sure to be cited for 
many years to come, in the courts of the entire country. In thu> linking 
hiis name at the very outset of his career, to a leading authority, Mr. 
\\ iggins has set for himself a hard task. He nnist now live up to his 
I'wn reputation — which tlu-rc i^ abundant reason t*. believe he i-- entirely 
able to do. 

Cornelius E. Cuddeback. admitted t<> the bar in iJ^J,?. immediately 
established in Port Jervis the business now carried on under the firm 
name of C. I*!. & .^. M. Cuildeback, his son .*^ainuel M. havnig become 
associated with him. 

Mr. Cuddeback tarly became prominent in all the interest^ of the 



520 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

community, social, business, legal and public — a position whicb be main- 
tains by virtue of his uncjuestioned integrity, great ability and enormous 
industry. He was largely instrumental in straightening out the affairs 
of the Port Jervis & JMonticello Railroad Company, and he has for many 
years been the attorney for the town of Deer Park and the village (now 
the city) of Port Jervis. He has also been the attorney for many public 
service corporations. His defense of the Barrett Bridge Company in a 
test case tried at Goshen in June, 1905, to determine the liability of the 
company for the deaths occasioned by the sweeping away of the bridge 
over the Delaware River in a freshet, furnishes a fine example of his 
characteristics as a lawyer. The defense was prepared with a thorough- 
ness, exhaustiveness and comprehensiveness and conducted with a verve, 
vigor and vivacity which carried everythmg before it, sweeping away the 
case of the plaintiff as ruthlessly as the freshet swept away the bridge ; 
leaving little for the jury to do but to register the fact that the defence 
had been completely successful. 

Mr. Cuddeback finds in his son a lawyer well qualified to assume the 
burdens of his practice when he shall be prepared to lay them down. 

All the living lawyers thus far considered, except the sons and daugh- 
ter, will very soon be passing from the scene. The pages that bear this 
imprint will scarcely be flung from the press before the lawyers whose 
now familiar names they carry forward to a generation that knows them 
not, will drop away, one by one, from their accustomed places. So .true 
is this, so strong is the author's sense that only, by slight anticipation, do 
these pages commemorate the departed, that nothing has been set down 
here which could not be truthfully and becomingly said if they had gone 
before who yet, for a little, linger. This, indeed, suggests the chief 
reason why the present record, to be of any value, should include the 
living; for long before this publication is superseded by a rival or a suc- 
cessor the figures it portrays will have passed from action to remem- 
brance. 

In connection with this thought it is proper to point out that the 
sketches and estimates now published bear this further resemblance to 
veracious and posthumous biography— they have not been edited by the 
subjects. The system adopted in some modern compilations of permit- 
ting prominent men to write their own biographies, or of procuring from 
them the data for less sympathetic treatment, has not been followed 



THE 1U£X(JH AND BAR. 521 

here. Indeed, with a single accidental and insignificant exception, not 
cne lawyer has any knowledge of the scope or purpose of this under- 
taking or has furnished any information available for use in ii. He who 
carelessly takes up this volume to read about others will be covered with 
modest confusion to find himself included in it. This is an attempt not 
to let a man speak for himself, but to collect and crystallize in definite 
forms of expression the fioating particles of contemporary judgment 
upon his character. It is for this reason, besides others, that so few 
specific dates and irrelevant facts are given. They have not been asked 
for. They arc not needed. They do not fit wath the scheme of this work, 
which aims, perhaps presumptuously, but still consistently, to be a gal- 
icry of portraits, not a table of statistics. Of what possible interest is 11 
to know the number of a lawyer's children, or the building in which his 
cffice is located? Character and achievement are the things that count. 

It will be convenient at this point to return to the consideration of the 
leading advocates now at the bar of the county. No one recognizes more 
tlian advocates themselves their frequent indebtedness to the great 
lawyers who, undisturbed by absorbing, distracting and exhausting trials, 
apply to life's complex and varying conditions the immutable principles 
of the common law. It implies no disparagement of Winfield and Gedney 
to assume that the one often leaned upon the judgment of his partner. 
William F. Sharpe, and that the other often sought the wise counsel of 
his esteemed relative. Joseph W. Gott. \t the same time it cannot be 
fioubted that public interest has always centered upon the trial lawyer, 
for the obvious reason that the open field, the public challenge, the com- 
bat of intellecfual athletes, the palm of victory appeal strongly to the 
imagination and dramatic sense. There need, therefore, be no apology 
for making prominent in a popular work those who engage the larger 
share of merely popular interest. 

There is no man at the bar of Orange County, or indeed anywhere, 
for whom the term colorless would be so inept as it would be for Judge 
Albert H. F. Seeger. He radiates color. He is the incarnation of sun- 
shine. He is the forerunner of gladness, sounding a proclamation of 
hope and good cheer wherever he goes. Xo one would suppose that he 
ever had a care or sorrow. Yet he must have had his share. He per- 
forms more perfectly than any man I ever knew that mission which 
Robert Louis Stevenson glorifies when he says : 



522 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



"There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy.. 
A happy man or woman is a better thing to find than a five-pound note. 
He or she is a radiating focus of good will ; and their entrance into a 
room is as though another candle had been lighted. We need not care 
whether they could prove the forty-seventh proposition ; they do a better 
thing than that, they practically demonstrate the great theorem of the 
liveableness of life." 

But Judge Seeger can also prove the forty-seventh proposition. He 
can usually prove anything he sets out to prove, as lawyers opposed to 
him have often found to their dismay. And even when the law and the 
facts are all against him and you have him thoroughly beaten, according, 
to all the rules of the game, there will still be three to six jurors who 
strangely refuse to believe that anything but infallible argument could 
emanate from a personality so radiant. Not that his propositions always 
need the support of his personality, upon which, indeed, he never con- 
sciously presumes. He always builds up a strong, solid, telling, con- 
vincing argument, delivered with unaffected earnestness and artless sin- 
cerity. 

And his sincerity really is artless. While he is personally the most 
popular man in Orange County and while such pre-eminence can only 
be attained by the use of popular arts, yet in his case they are entirely 
legitimate and unstudied. He really does feel kindness when he seems 
to. He really is interested in the things which interest others. He really 
does love their babies, their dogs, their horses — anything, in fact, but 
their automobiles. His bubbling spirits and effervescent mirth, his ready 
wit and sparkling sally, the ring of his laughter and the spell of his 
bonhomie are all the genuine expression of a rich, ardent and impression- 
able nature. 

It might be thought that such a man would be a time-server. Far from 
it. There is not a trace of the demagogue in his composition. Much as 
he would naturally desire to retain his remarkable popularity he would 
fling it all away, if necessary, in the performance of his dutA- or in the de- 
fense of law and order. TTe showed this unmistakably when as district 
attorney he boldly held at bay the lawless mob. at a personal risk which 
his official duties did not call upon him to incur. Knowing then that he 
would soon be a candidate for a higher office he cared not whether he- 
made friends or enemies, whether he lost votes or gained them ; he 



Till-: I'.i'.xcii .\.\i3 i;.\k. 523: 

vimply saw his duty and went straight for it. As it was, the very forces 
he antagonized respected him. When this genial friend, this blithe com- 
panion became transformed into the stern, unyielding, inexorable officer 
of the law the very mob he awed retired to worship him, and wIkmi the 
lime came it voted for him. 

This mingling in Judge Seeger's character of the sterner and s(jftcr 
elements, of courage and tenderness, manliness and simplicity, firmness 
and forgiveness, has inspired in the people of Orange County a respect 
and affection such as rarely attends upon a public man. His election 
to the office of county judge was inevitable whether the "organization" 
had been friendly or not. If it constitutes high qualifications for this 
responsible position to possess a character noble and sincere, a disposition 
just and fair, a judgment sound and true, a mind well trained and in- 
formed, a knowledge of the law wide and various, a knowledge of human 
nature keen and close, a sense of public duty deep and earnest, then is the 
county of Orange indeed fortunate that a judge as respected as John J. 
Ileattie should be followed b\- a successor so worthy as Albert 11. I~. 
Seeger. 

I'rom painting to stenography; from stenography to the law; from the 
law to the recovery of a judgment for eight hundred thousand dollars in 
1(^56 — that is the condensed history of Thomas Watts. As the painting 
was, not of ])ictures but. of houses, it will readily be seen that he is the 
most consummate embodiment of that familiar ])hrase. the self-made man, 
that the Orange County bar possesses. After working all day i:)ainting, 
t)ften walking back several miles to his home, he spent his evenings study- 
ing stenography. After acquiring this art and while pursuing its prac- 
tice as a court stenographer he studied law assiduously, following care- 
full\- also the course of every case that came under his notice in court and 
drawing out the able judges and lawyers whom he met in conversatitm 
that was not less instructive than edifying. 

I'.orn in luigland. aliout the same time that Judge Seeger was burn in 
( lermany. and brought to tliis country at an early age by his parents, as 
Judge .Seeger was also, the career of both men is a striking illustration 
of what may be accomj^lished in tliis land of opportimity. without the 
.social influence of generations of local ancestry, by sheer ])luck. persever- 
ance, energy and ability. 

Mr. Watts is a very nucleus of abounding and superabounding energy. 



524 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

He generate^; energy by a process of spontaneous mental combustion. His 
mental activity is more continuous and intense than any I have ever 
known. His mind never goes fallow, but seems to be constantly fructified 
by the floating pollen in the business, legal or intellectual atmosphere sur- 
rounding him. It is of course inevitable that, with such a temperament, 
he should repeatedly cross the path of people who would like to have him 
keep out of their way. But Mr. Watts is so constituted that where other 
people are there would he be also ; and he is always willing to keep out 
of their way by letting them step aside. 

Yet, despite all his initiative, aggressiveness and combativeness with 
respect to those who can meet him upon equal terms, he is tenderness and 
generosity itself to the weak, the helpless and the dependent. He has been 
Ivnown to ]>our out his bounty for years upon those who appealed to his 
sympathy or invoked his aid. He has, in a marked degree, the English 
love of fair play and is as ready to acknowledge a mistake as he is to 
resent an injury. Often brusque and impulsive in hi? manner when no 
offence is intended, and quick to regret when it is, he is always surprised 
to find that others are not so ready to forget as he is to forgive. 

The fighting qualities of Mr. Watts are never shown to better advan- 
tage than when he is asserting the rights of the poor and weak against all 
the resources of corporate or individual wealth. He never tires. His 
tenacity cannot be shaken. No reversal of the first judgment dismays 
him. He enters upon the second or third trial with as much vigor and 
vim as upon the first. In one case he more than doubled upon the second 
.trial the verdict obtained upon the first trial. Indeed he has led in the 
securing of large verdicts, having obtained the largest verdict in a death 
case ever rendered in the county and the largest verdict, with one excep- 
tion, ever rendered for personal injuries. 

The judgment for eight hundred thousand dollars to which reference 
has been made was obtained by Mr. Watts in an action brought by him 
for a contractor against a railroad company for extra work in the building 
of a branch, disputed by the company. Mr. Watts examined and cross- 
examined all the witnesses and, with the aid of his ofiice force, prepared 
the final argument. He was opposed by the finest legal talent in the State 
and the case was tried before that learned, eminent and profoundly re- 
spected judge, the Honorable Alton B. Parker, sitting as referee. The case 
involved many intricate questions of which Mr. Watts exhibited entire 



THE DEXCH AND IJAR. 525 

mastery. His manag^cment of this case marks the zenith of his ability and 
reputation as a trial lawyer. A lawyer who, before such a tribunal, wins 
such a case, involving such large interests and attended with results of 
such magnitude, for the judgment was not only obtained but settled, has 
established his place, beyond all question, in the very front rank of the 
trial lawyers of the State. 

Mr. Watts excels in cross-examination. In a case brought by him for 
injuries resulting from the explosion of a locomotive boiler, the judge 
hesitated at the close of his case about letting it proceed, but finally ruled 
that the railroad company should go on with its proof, reserving the 
questions that troubled him. Air. Watts thereupon took the defendant's 
witnesses in hand and on cross-examination he so completely established 
the liability of the company out of the mouths of its own witnesses that 
all thought, not merely of nonsuit, but of defense even was abandoned 
and the company was thrown into a panic. It made an ofYer in the 
recess and when the court convened again to resume the case it was 
announced as settled. 

Air. Watts' addresses to the jury are marked by pith, point and 
piquancy. He emphasizes the salient features of the case and lets all 
minor or subordinate issues take care of themselves. His sturdy defense 
of his client's rights, his strong individuality and his intellectual force 
combine to make him a formidable opponent. 

Perhaps no lawyer at the bar of Orange County ever received a more 
emphatic, pronounced, unmistakable tribute of personal regard than John 
C. R. Taylor, of Middletown, received at the election of 1906, when, in 
a district opposed to him politically, he ran over four thousand ahead of 
his ticket and was elected Senator by a majority of over twelve hundred. 
The good opinion of him thus expressed by his fellow citizens has been 
confirmed by his broad, patriotic, statesmanlike course at Albany, which 
has attracted the attention and commended him to the approbation, of 
the entire State, without respect to ])arty lines. The purity of his 
character, the singleness of his motives, the soundness of his judg- 
ment and the indepenrlence of his action carried him in a single session 
to a position of weight and influence usually acquired only after several 
terms of legislative service. Senator Taylor is one of those public 
servants who believe that the State is a great business corporation of 
which the Governor is president and each Senator a trustee. Lender this 



^26 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

conviction he refuses to consider either party advantage or private inter- 
ests but seeks to ascertain solely what is best for the welfare of the 
people and the cause of good government. Whether he can repeat his 
phenomenal success at the polls under less favorable conditions is of 
course uncertain. But wdiether he does or not he has set an example 
of clean, straightforward, high-minded methods in politics and legislation 
which will long be remembered in his district. He has set a standard 
of political morals which will have to be satisfied by any successor who 
hopes to retain the mandate of a now aroused, vigilant, exacting and 
independent public conscience. 

Senator Taylor's success at the bar was almost as immediate as his 
later success in the Senate. Early in his practice he went to Kingston 
to try a case against one of the leaders of the famous Ulster County bar 
and obtained a verdict of $10,000 in an action against the town of Shaw- 
angunk for damages resulting from a defective bridge, a verdict which 
was subsequently paid after passing the ordeal of all the courts. Judge 
Clearwater who presided over the trial and whose qualifications as a 
critic will be conceded, since he has himself made both the bar and bench 
illustrious, told me that he had never seen a case more ably tried and 
presented than this case was by Mr. Taylor. 

Senator Taylor has the courage of the true lawyer. When a few 
years ago he was engaged to defend a client accused of a shocking 
ofifense, people went to him and said, "Why, you will be ruined if you 
defend that man." He simply replied, "He is my client and I shall stand 
by him to the end." Senator Taylor not only was not "ruined" but he 
completely reversed public sentiment which had been misled from the 
start, and established his client's entire innocence of the charge against 
him in a crushing cross-examination of the first witness which demon- 
strated its complete falsity. 

Senator Taylor's professional ideals are as high as his political ideals. 
He is an honorable foe, a straight lawyer, a cultured gentleman. 

Michael N. Kane, of Warwick, the most beautiful village in the county. 
if not in the State, also received at the election of 1906 a vote for the 
office of supreme court judge which strikingly attested the admiration and 
regard in which he is held by his fellow citizens in the county and district. 
He ran several thousand ahead of his ticket but this was not sufficient to 
-overcome the adverse majority caused by the creation of the new ninth 



THE r.MXCH AX I) i;.\k. 



0-/ 



judicial (li>tricl out of the river cuuiiliL>. Mr. Kane has securely estab- 
lished his reputation as a trial lawyer of conspicuous abilit}- and success. 
He is fre(|uentl\- employed as counsel in ini])ortant cases and has never 
failed to satisfy the expectations of l^oth att(jrney and client. His prepa- 
ration of cases for trial is complete antl masterly. 

In the appellate courts his arguments are marked 1)\ a learning;. lucidit\ 
and power which always command attention and usually assent. 

The breadth of character and fineness of moral fibre which have con- 
tributed so largely to his professional success are displaced in all his 
relations to his professional brethren, in which he is the pattern and 
-exemplar of uniform courtesy, consideration and indulgence. While 
riever imperiling tlie interests of a client to accommodate a professional 
l)rt)ther he is always able to find a way to accommodate him without in- 
juring his client. He never takes refuge in the trans])arent pretext that 
his client will not consent, which is the customary formula used to cover, 
though it does not conceal, i)rofessional churlishness. In the very cases 
in which Mr. Kane has been most generous to his opponents he has had 
the most complete ultimate success; thus furnishing to his brethren of 
the bar an object lesson from which they may learn that courtes}- to each 
other is entirely consistent with i)erfect loyalty to their client. 

Mr. Kane- public spirit has alwavs been a noticeable i)hase of his 
<:haracter. His pride in and devotion to the interests of \\'arwick have 
endeared him to his community which not only res])ects him ns a lawyer 
but esteems him as a neighbor and honors him as a citizen. 

{•"erdinand \'. San ford is another citizen of W arwick whose abilities en- 
title him to rank among the trial lawvers of the conn.ty. Fluent in speech, 
cultivated in manner and refined in character, his personal charm im])art- 
u eight to his o])inion and impidsion t(» his utterances. He, too. is deeply 
interested in his beautiful village, the citizens of which have l)estowed 
u])Mn him many marks of their favor and confidence. His i)rominence 
in its afi'airs led to a most interesting experience in the summer of H)0() 
when he represented his village at the brilliant and imposing ])ageant held 
In old Warwick in England at which he upheld the reputation abroad of 
American oratory in a most graceful, felicitous and eloquent address. 

Darwin W. Esmond, of Xewburgh, prepares his cases for trial more 
tlioroughly than any lawyer T ever knew. His trial brief is coinprehen- 
sive, elaborate ;ind minute, even containing instructii-ns in reference to 



528 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the cross-examination of the witnesses expected to be called by his op- 
ponent. Every case likely to be cited by his opponent is discussed and 
distinguished. Every pitfall into which his opponent might seek to draw 
him is pointed out and provided against. If he should die the day before 
a case is set down for trial and it should be thought best, notwithstanding, 
to go on with the trial, any experienced trial lawyer could, on a moment's 
notice, take his brief and try the case without consulting an authority, 
seeing a witness, or even talking with the client. He would find his open- 
ing to the jury outlined for him, the statements of the witnesses ar- 
ranged in the order in which they should be adduced, the authorities 
bearing upon a motion for nonsuit carefully analyzed and, finally, the 
points to be dwelt upon in the submission to the jury clearly emphasized. 

It is needless to say that such painstaking industry implies the most 
conscientious devotion on the part of Mr. Esmond to his client's cause — a 
devotion as earnest and intense when the amount involved is small as 
when it is large. His theory is that a small case is just as important to a 
poor man as a large case is to a rich one and that the measure of duty, 
of fidelity and of devotion should be the same in each. 

But mere industry is of little avail in the law unless directed by ability. 
It is a valuable supplement to ability, never a substitute for it. Mr. Es- 
mond has all the qualifications of an able trial lawyer. I once saw him 
in Kingston pitted against one of the leaders of the Ulster County bar 
overturn by the sheer force of his ability and address, all the prejudices 
first formed against his client, the defendant, in the mind of both court 
and jury, in a case in which the plaintiff, an old man, was seeking the 
restoration of property turned over by him to his son. I heard Judge 
Chester say that in the beginning of the trial he thought the plaintiff was 
right but that as the case proceeded his mind changed. This result was 
due solely to the splendid defense made by Mr. Esmond in a case which 
from the start was full of elements of danger and defeat. 

Mr. Esmond has always taken a prominent part in the literary life of 
the community and in the discussion of public topics. His services to the 
Chautauqua society have been most valuable, while his own addresses 
upon a large variety of topics have been a distinct contribution to the 
literature of the subject. 

It is fortunate indeed for Mr. Esmond at this time that he has all these 
resources to fall back upon ; else might he have been wholly crushed by 



THE JJEXCH AXD L'.AR. 



529 



the cruel sorrow that canic to him antl his devoid wile in the recent loss 
of their only child, I'aul W arner Esmond, one of the most precocious, 
I^romisini; and brilliant boys who ever lived. His poems, dealing with 
the problems of life and death, are as mature, reflective and suggestive 
as though written by a man of fifty. That such a child of genius should 
be snatched away when the angel of death leaves untouched so many 
circles from which one could be better spared, is a mystery that has 
never ceased to perplex mankind. 

Howard Thornton, of Newburgh, bcl-csprit, bon-vivant and raconteur, 
the favorite of .society and the delight of dinner tables, is not one whit 
less a good lawyer because be can smooth away the difficulties of a hostess 
in entertaining her guests as easily as he can glide over the difficulties of 
his client's case in court. The best lawyers have always shone in society, 
from Hamilton to Choate, and Mr. Thornton's social gifts have never 
interfered with his devotion to his profession. Every morning, year in 
and year out, the early riser can see ^Ir. Thornton at seven o'clock wend- 
ing his way to his office where by ten o'clock he has already accomplished 
a day's work and is ready to talk with his clients. 

^Ir. Thornton has always found his chief pleasure in some abstruse 
question arising out of the law of w'ills or of real estate. He has been 
drawn into some very important litigations involving the construction of 
the transfer tax law and his contentions have been uniformly sustained by 
the Court of Appeals. 

Mr. Tliornton's service in the Assembly, of whicli he was for three 
years a member, showed his capacity for jniblic affairs. He was chairman 
of the judiciary committee and took high rank in legislation and politics. 
But his tastes incline liim to the more arduous and less devious duties of 
his profession in which he has gained the reputation ^^i an honorable, 
talented and brilliant law\er. 

Rus-sel Headley, of Xewburgh. is the son of the eminent historian Joel 
T. Headley from whom, doubtless, he inherits those literary gifts which 
account in part for the direction of his energies into the field of le"-al 
authorship. Ihit this is not the only reason. It is but justice to him that 
it should be known that Mr. Headley was interrupted in the very midst of 
a brilliant career at the bar by the coming on of that most disqualifying 
of all iiifirniities for an advocate — deafness. This naturallv had the effect 
of turning Mr. Headley to the labors of authorship for which his inherited 



530 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

tastes and acquired accomplishments so well fitted him. His works upon 
assignments, witnesses and criminal justice are well known to and widely 
read by the profession. 

Mr. Headley filled the position of district attorney of Orange County 
for two terms. He especially distinguished himself at this time by his 
abilities as a trial lawyer. 

Mr. Headley accepted in 1902 and still holds a position in the legal divi- 
sion of the State Excise Department at Albany. His research, his faculty 
for writing sound, able, exhaustive opinions and his knowledge of the 
law of pleadings make him a most valuable member of the legal staff of 
that very important branch of the public service, in which questions are 
constantly arising which could scarcely be expected to come within the 
purview of an arm of the service devoted to the enforcement of a single 
law. In this work Mr. Headley is able to reconcile himself to the sur- 
render of those more spectacular triumphs of the court room in which 
his activities and his ambition once found a more congenial field. 

Cornelius L. Waring, of Newburgh, is an authority in the law of mu- 
nicipal corporations. He was for many years the attorney for the city, 
the interests of which he always most zealously and successfully pro- 
tected. He has a large general practice including among his clients some 
wealthy business corporations. 

Mr. Waring has had wide experience in the trial of cases. His man- 
ner in court is marked by dignity, determination and persistency. He 
never yields a point on his own side and he never fails to seize upon the 
weak point in the case of his adversary. His arguments are terse, direct 
and forceful, always commanding ready and respectful attention. 

Elmer E. Roosa, of the Newburgh bar, who was associated with Judge 
Hirschberg at the time he ascended the bench, succeeded in large part 
to the prestige of an office which had been established for nearly thirty 
years. The confidence always reposed in him by Judge Hirschberg is 
shared by a large body of devoted clients who find in him a safe, dis- 
creet and honorable counselor. 

Edward J. Colhns, of Newburgh, who is associated in practice with 
Judge Seeger, possesses in a high degree that dignity of bearing and of 
character which well supports professional attainments of a superior 
order. He has been honored by his fellow citizens by repeated marks of 
their confidence. He was for some years president of the common 



THE r.EX'CH AND BAR. 



.■^.si 



council i>t the city of Newburgh, a position which brougiit into prom- 
inence his fine quahties of mind and character. 

Henry R. Lydccker, of Newburgli, has the most amiable disposition 
of any lawyer at the bar. If he were more self-assertive his abilities 
would be more widely appreciated. He showed marked ability in his 
service fi:»ur successive winters in the attorney general's ofifice at Albany in 
the work of reviewing for constitutional and other objections, the bills 
sent by the Legislature to the Governor. This a])pointment was made 
each year and would not have been repeatedly conferred unless the dis- 
charge of his important duties had proved to be able and satisfactory. 

Mr. Lydeckcr has recently received, at the instance of Presiding Jus- 
tice Hirschberg, an appointment upon the clerical force of the .Appellate 
Division — another evidence of the high opinion entertained of him by 
governors, attorneys general and judges alike. 

I. Renwick Thompson, Jr., of Newburgh, is still permitted to write 
■■junior" to a noble and conspicuous senior, who now for more than fifty 
years has ministered over one of the most important churches and con- 
gregations in Xewburgh. Mr. Thompson's character and standing wholly 
contradict the adage about "ministers' sons." Tn his keeping all the tradi- 
tions of an honorable lineage are safe, while a l^rge and increasing client- 
age can testify that in his hands are equally safe all the interests com- 
mitted to him. 

Elwood C. Smith, who has an office in Turner as well as in Newburgh, 
has advanced rapidly in reputation and standing. His agreeable manners 
and attractive personality always create a favorable im.pression sure to be 
confirmed by future acquaintance with his character and abilities. He 
enjoys the respect of the community and the confidence of a very consid- 
erable clientage. 

N'. Deyo Belknap, of Newburgh. has shown great talent in all his 
appearances in court and is a rising aspirant for professional honors. Tn 
an action ])rought by him for the construction of a will he exhibited all 
the qualities of a mature and experienced practitioner. His success at 
the bar has been immediate and pronounced. 

R. H. Barnett, of Newburgh. has made a specialty of negligence 
actions. T.ike his great exemplar. John Af. Gardner, he never concedes 
that he is beaten. He alwavs renews the argument to the court, after be- 
ing nonsuited, so undauntedlv that the court often reverses itself and 



532 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lets the case go to the jun-, before which Mr. PJarnett meets with unvary- 
ing" success. A jury always admires pluck and pertinacity and these quali- 
ties Mr. Barnett possesses in a marked degree. 

Graham Witschief, of Newburgh, would attract attention in any assem- 
bly for the intellectual cast of his features, which clearly betoken unusual 
talent. This impression is at once confirmed when he addresses the court. 
He so excels in the power of lucid statement that by the time he has 
informed the court of the nature of the controversy he has already pro- 
duced the effect of an argument. 1 his faculty of seizmg upon the crucial, 
controlling points of the case, of applying the philosophical rather than 
the historical method, is one of the rarest among lawyers, who usually 
narrate the facts in the order in which they occurred, leaving the court to 
pick out the essential, determining elements from a mass of more or less 
related matter. This gift ^^Fr. Witschief possesses to a degree so unusual 
that it constitutes a large factor in the success which he has so rapidly 
attained. He is a rising adv^ocate, taking his place easily among the leaders 
of the Orange County bar. 

Benjamin McClung, of Newburgh, obtained, early in his practice, a 
foremost position at the bar of the county. One of his first and most 
notable victories, which attracted wide attention at the time, was won in 
a proceeding instituted by him in 1892 to require the registry board of 
the town of Highlands to strike from the register the names of over a 
hundred soldiers quartered at West Point, who claimed the right to vote 
in the village of Highland Falls, adjoining the Government reservation. 
Mr. McClung took the position that the West Point reservation is not a 
part of the territory of the State of Nev; York ; that upon the cession of 
the territory by the State the general government became invested with 
exclusive jurisdiction over it and that persons resident within it are not 
entitled to vote. Mr. AlcChrng, notwithstanding the limited time at his 
disposal, upon the very eve of an exciting election, made a most exhaus- 
tive and convincing argument, collating all the authorities and relying 
chiefly upon the decision of the United States Supreme Court in Fort 
Leavenworth Railroad Company vs. Lowe, which involved the character 
of Government property at Fort Leavenworth. Though he was opposed 
by such eminent counsel as Jndge Hirschberg, Walter C. Anthony and 
Howard Thornton, his argument was sustained by the court and the law 
upon the subject was finally established in this State. 



THE llEXCll AND i:\K. 533 

His stubborn defense a few years aj;u vi an unpopular client will be 
long remembered. So stronjn was the public sentiment against his client 
and so thoroug^hly had the court room been surcharged with this sentiment 
that it was impossible for Mr. ]>.fcClung to prevent his client's conviction 
of the offense of receiving stolen property, knowing it to be stolen. But, 
nothing daunted, Mr. McClung procured a stay of the sentence, reversed 
the conviction on appeal, and on the second trial cleared his client trium- 
phantly, the court saying that the proof for the prosecution did not make 
the slightest progress toward fastening guilt upon the defendant. This 
case aft'ords a striking illustration of the dangers that often surround 
innocent men in the artificially superheated atmosphere of a court room 
created by an excited and credulous public opinion eager for a victim. 
Had it not been for Mr. McClung's steadfast, stalwart and fearless exer- 
tions in this case, in the face of much hostile criticism, an absolutely inno- 
cent man, as subsequently ascertained by the court, would have been con- 
signed to the ignominy of a term in State prison. Mr. ^^IcClung's action 
in thus stemming the tide of adverse, powerful and malignant influences 
bent upon crushing and ruining his client cannot be overestimated. It 
attests his place at the Orange County bar not merely for intellectual 
ability but for that moral courage which constitutes the very highest 
attribute, the noblest equipment of the advocate. 

That Mr. McClung's manly, independent and intrepid character is 
understood and admired by the public was strikingly shown in the fall 
of IQ07 by hi.s election to the office of mayor of the city of Xewburgh by 
a majority of over five hundred votes, overcoming an adverse majority 
of about five hundred usually cast in that city against the candidate of 
his party. The people evidently believed that Mr. McClung is imbued 
with the idea that a municipal corporation is, in its last analysis, simply a 
business corporation in which each taxpayer is a stockholder, the aldermen 
its directors and the mayor its business manager. 

Mr. McClung has already shown that this confidence in his character 
and aims is well founded. He may be relied upon to give the people a 
purely business administration unfettered bv political obligations and 
uninlUienced by the desire to build up a personal machine or to reward a 
band of hungry parasites. 

Henry Kohl, of Xewburgh, now the partner of Mr. McClung, is also a 
fighter. His taster and his sympathies incline him to espouse the weaker 



534 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cause, and he is often assigned by the court to defend those who are 
unable to employ counsel. I remember a notable case in which he was 
thus assigned arising out of the killing of a motorman by the alleged 
criminal negligence of another motorman in causing a collision. The 
indictment was for manslaughter and the trolley company refused to give 
any assistance to the accused motorman, who languished several months 
in the county jail while his case was being tossed back and forth between 
the supreme and county courts. Mr. Kohl took hold of the case and so 
stoutly convinced several jurors that the fault was that of the company 
in not providing the motorman with proper appliances that a disagreement 
was secured and the motorman discharged on his own recognizance. This 
illustrates the quality of Mr. Kohl's work — earnest, strong, enthusiastic, 
courageous, loyal. Nothing dismays him. The more able and astute his 
opponent, the better he is satisfied, since it proportionately increases his 
credit in beating him, as he always expects to do, and frequently does. 

Mr. Kohl is a verdict getter. His recent success in getting a verdict 
for $9,000 in a negligence case was a gratifying one, while he also recently 
secured a favorable settlement in a case against the city growing out of tne 
fall of a tree in a high wind, causing the death of a young la'dy. The 
lav/ve\-s who start in to try a case against Henry Kohl know that in him 
they will find an opponent equipped at every point and with every art to 
swav a jury and to save his client. He has forged his way ahead until 
now he is in the front rank of Orange County's trial lawyers. 

J. Bradley Scott, of Newburgh, is the son of that noble lawyer. David 
A. Scott, whose ]:)recious legacy of an honorable name is guarded well by 
tlie son, who came to the bar several years after his father's death. He 
has developed far more fondness for the trial of cases than his father had 
and has already acliieved a distinct standing as a trial law}'er. His recent 
success Iiefore the appellate courts, in the case involving the right of a 
soda water establishment to refuse to fmmish soda water upon request to 
a colored person, has attracted great attention. The case involves grave 
questions and far-reaching consequences. j\Ir. Scott's broad, powerful 
and convincing argument in it shows that he inherits not only the good 
name but also the fine intellectual, discriminating qualities of his distin- 
guished father. 

George H. Decker, of Middletown, is the dean of its trial lawyers. He 
is the one first asked upon every public occasion to voice its spirit, or its 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 535 

jjurpuse, filling in this respect the part so uflcn taken by Mr. W infield, 
who \va.>, by the \va\, until his death, al\va\s one of .Mr. Deckers warm- 
est friends and admirers. 

Possessed of a highly sensitive, responsive nature, a poetic, imag^inative 
temperament, an exquisUely nervous organization, hi> fibre is almost too 
fine for the bufietings and shocks of the court room. While his brilliant 
nund. his legal attainments and his oratorical powers have always been 
exhibited in the court room to great advantage and with marked success, 
yet he has often declined conflicts in which, if he had entered upon them, 
UL't he, but his opjwnent. wDuld have had occasion to regret it. Mi. 
Decker has always placed a far more modest estimate upon his own 
abilities than he should have done, and a far lower estimate than that of 
the public, by which he is unreservedly admired and respected. 

},{r. Decker's gifts as a public speaker, his scholarly tastes and his 
literary attainments are never shown to greater advantage than upon the 
lecture ]:)latform, from which he has often instructed and delighted a 
cultured audience. His recent series of brilliant lectures upon Edgar 
Allan Poe will be long remembered. 

Soon after Mr. Decker's admission to the bar in 1870 he formed a part- 
nership, under the name of McQuoid & Decker, with Henry M. McOuoid, 
who died a few* years later. Mr. INIcQuoid's portrait hangs in Mr. 
Decker's ofifice, but there is little else to remind us now of one who once 
occupied a large place in the interest and attention of the public. Mr. 
McOuoid was distinguishd for bold, dashing, sparkling qualities as a trial 
lawyer. Soon after Judge Groo moved from ]\Ionticello to Middletown 
in i8(/) he and Mr. McOuoid were opposed to each other in a trial in 
which Mr. McQuoid disputed all of Judge Groo's legal propositions with 
the prefatory remark, "That max be good law in Sullivan County but it 
won't go in ( )range County." .\fter Judge Groo had stCKxl this as long 
a'^ he thought he ought to. he remarked, "T want you to understand that 
there are just as good lawyers in Sullivan County as in Orange County." 
■■' )h, yes," said McOuoid, "T know- that, but they all stay there." 

Judge Groo himself enjoyed the sally and was himself very quick at a 
retort. Once upon a trial in Goshen in which he was opposed by Judge 
George W. Greene, who at one time occupietl a prominent place at the 
C)range County bar. subsequently living in New York, wliere he died, 
Judge Greene asked the jurors the usual question, whether any of them 



536 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE, 

had ever done any business with Judge Groo, saying that if so he would 
excuse them, whereupon Judge Groo said. "Are there any gentlemen in 
the box who have ever done any business with Judge Greene; if so I 
would like to have them remain." 

Mr. McOuoid had a wonderful memor}-. He could entertain his friends 
by the hour repeating passages from famous orations or works of poetry. 
His memory treasured even a fugitive poem read once in a newspaper. T 
recall an instance of this. One day when T was driving back with him in 
a buggy from Circleville, where we had tried a case against each other (it 
was the local custom for the lawyers to drive out together for their jus- 
tice's court trials) he repeated to me a poem he had seen in a newspaper 
written by Prime, the well known Eastern traveler, in memory of a 
Aoung girl, Claude Brownrigg, who had died soon after he had told her 
of his travels in Palestine, as thev walked the beach one night in the moon- 
light. I told Mr. McQuoid I would like a copy of it. So as soon as he 
got back to Middletown he wrote it off for me. I have preserved it these 
thirty years and more. Here are some of the lines : 

"All this I wished as on the beach 

Beside the sea I walked, 
And to a young and white-robed girl, 

As thus I wished I talked. 
Talked of far travel, wanderings long, 

And scenes in many lands, 
And all the while the golden path 

Led eastward from the sands. 

"And she has crossed the shining path, 

The path where moonbeams quiver, , 

And she is in Jerusalem, 
Forever, yes, forever." 

That lines like these should be repeated by him in coming back from a 
commonplace suit in justice's court shows how thirty-five years ago law- 
yers thought and talked of something besides law and politics, money and 
stock markets. 

The name of the McOuoids should not be permitted to fade from the 
memory of the passing generation. His brother, Charles C. McOuoid, 
who died in 1866, attained even greater prominence at the bar. He en- 
joyed great personal popitlarity and his premature death at the age of 
thirty-six from typhoid fever, contracted at the home of a client, whose 



TIIF. I'.I-:X("I1 AX I) i;.\R. 537 

will Ik- iiad l);,'cn. asked lo draw, removed froin the bar one of its most 
conspicuous figures. His popularity is shown by his success in defeating 
judge Ciedne\- for district attorney by a narrow majority in 1859. He 
served as district attorne}- until 1S62. l)eing succeeded by Abrani S. Cas- 
sedy, who in 1865 was succeeded by J. llallock Drake, another brilliant 
mcmlicr of the Orange (.'ount\- bar who practiced in Xewburgh for some 
vears but who subse(|uently settled in X'ew \'ork. 

Charles G. Dill, now the Xestor of the Middletown bar. stu.lied law 
with Charles C. !McOuoid. whose memory he holds in deep veneration. 
Mr. Dill at one time enjoyed the largest practice in Middletown. It is 
only lately that he has relaxed his devotion to business, now spending 
several months each year in Florida, where he has extensive interests. 

Mr. Dill is the verv soul (<i honor and integrity in all the relations 
of life. The kindness of his heart is often obscured by the brusqueness 
of his manner which sometmies gives stran.gcrs a wholly erroneous 
impression of a disposition singularly generous, open and buoyant. He 
is the precise opposite of the type represented by the traditional cow 
that gives a good pail of milk and then kicks it over. Mr. Dill kicks 
over the pail first and then proceeds to fill it with the milk of human 
kindness. He generally explains at the beginning how impossible it 
is for him to do anything for you and ends by doing more for you than 
you asked or expected. 

]\Ir Dill's miscellaneous library is the best in Orange County. He 
is a born, inveterate, irreclaima!)le bibliophile. .\ week that passes by 
without his buying some old, ra^e or scarce volume is to him a failure. 
The question of price is never considered. H he wants it he gets it and 
that is all there is of it. He has built several additions to his home to 
accommodate his treasures, but they constantly overtax its capacity. They 
overflow and regurgitate in a confusion that driven to despair the order 
fiend and the dust hunter. 

Rosslyn M. Cox. who was for many years the partner of Mr. Dill and 
who recently has entered into partnership with Mr. Watts, is one of the 
most successful lawyers in Middletown. He is an expert in accountings 
before the surrogate i^nd before the bankruptcy courts, but he is equally 
at home in a trial or in an argument before the court. The esteem 
in which he is held is shown by his nomination in 1906 for the ofifice 
of county judge. 



538 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Associated with Mr. Cox is Elmer N. (Jakes, whose abihties in the 
preparation of a case for trial are unique and remarkable. He is a 
natural mechanician, understanding- with ease the most difficult adjust- 
ments, functions and forms of complicated machiner}-. The knowledge 
displayed by him in respect to the construction and operation of a loco- 
motive boiler was an important element in the success of several actions 
growing out of an explosion, 

After preparing- the case for trial Mr. Oakes is entirely competent to 
try it. He has often examined and cross examined the witnesses but 
distrusts his own powers when it comes to summing vip the case to the 
jury. When his modesty shall be replaced by greater assurance he will 
be better known for his really solid attamments and fine abilities. 

.\bram F. Servin will probably never overcome his timidity at the 
sound of his own voice in the presence of a jury, though he can furnish 
enough lav*' to other law\ ers to keep them busy expounding it to the 
courts. He has argued and won cases in the Court of Appeals but his 
chief victories are carried off by other lawyers who argue from the 
learned and exhaustive briefs prepared by him. He is an expert in the 
preparation of a brief fo^ the appellate courts. He can take the printed 
record of a case of which he never heard and construct from it a per- 
fectly convincing brief upon either side. 

-Vllen W. Corwin, who occupies the position of recorder of IMiddletown, 
has displayed in the performance of his duties firmness tempered by 
forbearance, judgment informed by conscience, justice controlled by 
wisdom. His broad and humane policy in dealing- with minor offenses, 
united to his stern and rigid enforcement of the law in serious cases, 
largely accoimts for the almost entire freedom of A^iddletown from 
crimes of pillage and violence. 

Recorder William H. Hyndman, of Newburgh. has also succeeded 
during the last few years in greatly reducing the number of crimes 
committed in and about a city which was at one time infested by bold and 
desperate criminals. A river town is always subject to greater danger, 
through its opportunities for access and escape, but Recorder Hyndman 
has earned the gratitude of the public for an administration of the 
criminal law which has resulted in a marked improvement of the condi- 
tions once prevalent in his jurisdiction. 

Of course the discouragement of crime rests largely in the vigilance of 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 539 

the district attorney of the county. Thomas C. Rogers, of MitUlletown, 
ihc son of WiHiam 11. Rogers, vvhcj himself could easily have attained 
eminence at the bar if he had so chosen, was elected to this office in 
I wo' I. lie has already shown that in his hands the wise, faithful and 
effcieni enforcement of the criminal law may be confidently depended 
upon. llis previous administration for three years of the office of 
assistant tlistrict attorney was distinguished for unusual ability. He is 
amply (jualified to uphold the traditions of an office always ably filled by 
such men as l-'uUerton and Carr. lirown and Hirschberg, Anthony and 
Headley, Powelson and Seeger. 

j. D. Wilson, jr.. of Xewburgh, who received the appointment as 
assistant district attorney, to serve with Mr. Rogers, is well qualified to 
sustain the burdens of the position, which are necessarily very consider- 
able when it is considered that he is expected to exercise special vigil- 
ance in the entire eastern part of the county, including Newburgh itself. 

Wickham T. Shaw was one of the most alert assistant district attorneys 
that Orange County ever had. He served in that capacity under Judge 
Fullerton from j868 to 1871, trying many of the cases. His career at 
the bar of Middletown has afforded many opportunities for the display 
of his knowledge of the criminal law, gained in that association with 
one of the foremost lawyers of his time. 

.\biam \'. X. Powelson never satisfied the expectations of his friends 
until he came to the office of district attorney in 1897. a position which 
he filled for seven years. They always knew that he had ability and they 
always regretted that Ins retention of the office of justice of the peace, 
for many years, prevented that recognition of his abilities to which they 
were entitled. But the opportunity to show his solid worth both as a 
lawyer and a^ a law officer came with his entrance into a wider field of 
c<>unt\- administration in which he acquitted himself with credit and 
distinction. 

Jiihn F. Bradner. of Middletown. was also at one time closely con- 
nected with the administration of the criminal law. having been the 
recorder of iNIiddlctown for manv years : a j^osition in which he presided 
with great dignity over many important and exciting trials. Mr. Bradner 
is an advocate who enters upon a trial with all the ardor and enthusiasm 
born of absolute conviction in the justice of his cause, and he never 
fails to make a strong impression upon a jury. 



540 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

John L. Wiggins, of Middletown, son-in-law of Judge Groo and brother 
of WilHs H. Wiggins, an eminent member of the Ohio judiciary, is 
distinguished for the earnestness, energy and enthusiasm with which he 
espouses every cause committed to him. He is original and resourceful. 
In an action brought once against his client for a violation of the law in 
respect of adulterated milk, Mr. Wiggins gravely argued to the jury that 
in his judgment the law was unconstitutional. As the facts were clearly 
against his client, the judge did not take the trouble to interrupt him, 
but was astonished when the jury rendered a verdict in favor of Mr. 
Wiggins' client, based wholly upon the constitutional argument. 

The next day Mr. O'Neill, encouraged by Mr. Wiggins' tactics, entered 
upon the same line of defence, but Judge Gaynor admonished by the 
miscarriage of the day before, promptly suppressed it. and Mr. O'Neill's 
client was convicted. 

Alton J. Vail, of Middletown, is a lawyer whose modestv often conceals 
his merits, which, however, are well known to his clients. Mr. Vail has 
for many years transacted the business of the Middletown Savings Bank. 
He is an authority upon titles and upon all questions involving the law 
'of real estate, his opinion upon these and kindred questions having 
frequently been sustained by the courts. Wide experience, soimd judg- 
ment, conservative instincts, elevated character, absolute probity and in- 
tense loyalty in friendship unite in Alton J. \'ail, the able lawyer, the 
honorable man, the upright citizen. 

A. C. N. Thompson, of Middletown, who is in partnership with ]Mr. 
Dill, has abundant inspiration in his name. He is the son of John A. 
Thomp.son, once a prominent lawyer of Monticello' who, on accoimt of 
his admiration for one of the greatest lawyers of his day named him 
after Archibald C. Niven. 

Mr. Thompson has already shown one quality conspicuous in his dis- 
tinguished godfather — that of capacity for hard work. His energy and 
self-denial in preparing himself for the bar while engaged in the exacting 
duties of another calling, give promise of abundant success in the career 
now opening before him. 

Charles T. Vail, who entered upon a career of high promise at the bar 
was cut down upon its threshold. No lawyer in Middletown ever had 
the faculty of winning friends as easily as he. His sunny disposition, 
affectionate nature and engaging manners won for him a host of admirers, 



THE liEXCH AXD BAR. 541 

aclhereiith and clients. L'ndinimecl affection in many hearts still sheds a 
tear over the untimely grave of Charlie \'ail. 

DeWitt \'an Zandt, of the Middletown bar, wa.s the son of that gifted 
divine. Dr. \'an Zandt, so long the beloved pastor of the brick church at 
Montgomery. Cuming to Middlctown fresh from college, his sjjarkling 
w it and ready repartee endeared him to a large circle of admiring friends. 
Dut soon he was overtaken by broken health, which paralyzed his energies 
and crumbled his ambitions. Through all the experiences of a life that 
failed to fulfil its early promise, he maintained the instincts, the manners 
and the bearing of the true gentleman. JIc never lost the sweetness, 
serenity and gentleness of his disposition, or the high standard of personal 
honor inherited from his revered father. I'ond meditation still tenderly 
dwells ujx)n the fadeless memory of DeWitt Van Zandt. 

John G. Mills, of the Goshen bar, removed to Washington, where he 
died in April. 1883. \\''hile necessity chained him to the law inclination 
le(i him along the flowery paths of literature, liis talents and accom- 
plishments brought him into relations with the great and the gifted, one 
of his dearest friends being Robert G. Ingersoll, who pronounced tiie 
oration at his funeral. Air. TngersoU said: 

"'Sly friends: Again we are face to face with the great mystery that 
shrouds the world. We question, but there is no reply. Out on the wide 
waste seas there drifts no spar. C)ver the desert of death the sphinx 
ga/es forever, but never speaks. 

"In the very May of life another heart has ceased to beat. Xight has 
fallen upon noon. But he lived, he loved, he was loved. Wife and chil- 
dren pressed their kisses on his lips. This is enough. The longest life 
contains- no more. This fills the vase of jov. 

"He who lies here, clothed with the perfect peace of death, was a kind 
and loving husband, a good father, a generous neighbor, an honest man, — 
and these words build a monument of glory above the humblest grave. 
He was always a child, sincere and frank, as full of hope as spring. He 
di\idcd all time into to-day and to-morrow. To-morrow was without a 
cloud and of to-morrow he borrowed sunshine for to-day. He was un- 
friend. He will remain so. The living oft become estranged ; the dead 
are true. * '^ * 

"With him immortality was the eternal consequences of his own acts. 
He believed that every jiure thought, every disinterested deed, hastens the 



542 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

harvest of universal good. This is a rehgion that enriches poverty ; that 
enables us to bear the sorrows of the saddest Hf e ; that peoples even soli- 
tude with happy millions yet to live, — a religion born not of selfishness 
and fear, but of love, of gratitude and hope, — a religion that digs wells to 
slake the thirst of others, and gladly bears the burdens of the unborn. 

"But in the ]jresence of death how beliefs and dogmas wither and 
decay ! How loving words and deeds burst into blossom ! Pluck from 
the tree of any life these flowers, and there remain but the barren thorns 
of bigotry and creed. 

"AH wish for happiness beyond this life. All hope to meet again the 
loved and lost. In every heart there grows this sacred flower. Immor- 
talit}' is a word that Hope through all the ages has been whispering to 
Love. The miracle of thought we cannot comprehend. The mystery of 
life and death we cannot comprehend. This chaos called the world has 
never been explained. The golden bridge of life from gloom emerges 
and on shadow rests. Beyond this we do not know. Fate is speechless, 
destiny is dumb, and the secret of the future has never yet been told. We 
love ; we wait ; we hope. The more we love, the more we fear. Upon the 
tenderest heart the- deepest shadows fall. All paths, whether filled with 
thorns or flowers, end here. Here success and failure are the same. The 
rag of wretchedness and the purple robe of power all difiference and dis- 
tinction lose in the democracy of death. Character survives ; goodness 
lives ; love is nnmortal.'' 

Harrison W. Nanny, of Goshen, had a pathetic career. Possessed of 
unusual talent and capacity he was handicapped in the practice of his pro- 
fession by an accident which paralyzed his energies, embittered his soli- 
tary life and pressed to his rebellious lips the chalice of mocking irony. 

But while he was not resigned he was courageous. Some of the work 
which he performed in sufl^ering and illness is marked by a high degree of 
intellectual power. Onlv his misfortunes prevented his attaining promi- 
nence at the bar. 

No one has a deeper affection for the memory of Mr. Nanny than his 
old friend and partner, Charles L. Mead, who now lives in retirement 
from the activities of his profession at his home in Middletown. Mr. 
Mead has the unprecedented record of having served three tern^s in 
succession as county treasurer — a striking proof of his influence, his pop- 
ularity and his qualifications for public office. During bis entire period 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 543 

of service not one of his olticial acis was ever quesiioned and he surren- 
dered the office crowned with the respect and confidence of the pubhc. 

Bradford R. Champion, of the Goshen bar, was a contemporary of 
Wintield and Gedney. While his talents were not brilliant or showy he 
still possessed those solid, sterling qualities of mind and heart which im- 
part strength and vigor to indivitlual character; which inspire confidence 
in the community at large ; which uphold the very structure of society ; 
which confer blessings upon every relation in life and which bring peace 
and honor, reix)se and happiness to their possessor. 

The recent death of William H. Wyker removed one who, while not 
prominent in the trial courts, possessed many endearing traits of character 
and occupied a large place in the social and civil life of Goshen. He was 
also in great favor and request as a speaker in political campaigns. He 
could have taken his place among the trial lawyers of the county, had he 
so chosen, but, he, too, suffered under the disadvantage of having accepted 
the ctfice of justice of the peace — that abyss in which talent has so often 
found its unmarked grave. 

The late Benjamin F. Low, of the Aliddletown bar, was one of the most 
genial spirits ever drawn into social relations with his fellow-men. He 
fairly oozed companionship and good fellowship. He was also a good 
lawyer, coming from a family of which Senator Henry A. Low, his 
brother, was the most able and conspicuous member. 

lie had some notable successes at the bar. In the case of Josie Teets 
against the city of Middletown he obtained a verdict for considerably 
more than he would have got if it had not been for the mistake of his 
opponent in the cross-examination of the plaintiff's physician. Dr. William 
n. Dorrance, who, on the rlircct, had testified to only moderate injuries 
to his patient as the result of her being thrown over the dashboard on 
account of an obstruction in the street. But he became nettled by the 
cross-exannnation and when he was finally asked: "Now, doctor, tell me 
just what is the inalter with this young lady," he replied: "Why, Mr. 
( )"Xcill, there is not one organ or function of that woman's body that 
works healchfull}- or naturally." 

This brought up the verdict from $1,000, all that Mr. Low expected 
to get, to 83,000. It was a les.'^on lo all who b.eard it as to the danger of 
giving a hostile witness too good an opening. As a matter oi fact, the 
woman is still living in vigorous health. 



544 'i'HE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Louis S. Sterrit, of Newburgh, who died in April, 1907, left a void 
in the hearts of a large and intimate circle. He enjoyed an extensive 
clientage and the contidence of the entire community. He was the 
attorney of that old, strong and conservative institution, the Newburgh 
Savings Bank, and of many otlier institutions and societies. His digni- 
iied presence, his affable manners, his substantial worth, his sincerely re- 
ligious character, his mental poise combined to produce an impression 
upon the community which the corrosion of time will, with difficult}-, 
efface. 

Mr, Sterrit was eminently public-spirited. In 1904 he erected at the 
entrance of W'oodlawn Cemetery, New Windsor, two very fine gates. He 
also iDlaced in the C^nion Presbyterian church of Newburgh a tablet in 
memory of the late Rev. Alexander B. Jack, one of its pastors. 

His generosity was unboinided. No client, however poor or humble, 
ever failed of help or counsel because he lacked a fee. 

The death in looC) of Lewis W. Y. McCroskery, of the Newburgh 
bar, created a general feeling of sorrow and a distinct sense of personal 
loss. He had filled many offices which brought him into individual rela- 
tions with the entire community, and it is safe to- assert that he had not 
a single enemy. His appointment as postmaster by President Cleveland 
was filled with credit to himself and usefulness to the public service. His 
professional career was interrupted by this service, but when he resumed 
his practice at the expiration of his term his clients gathered about him 
again, for they and the bar alike always appreciated deeply his amiable 
disposition, his spotless character, his solid ability. 

Joseph M. Leeper, of the Newburgh bar, also passed away in 1906. A 
veteran of the Civil War his health did not permit him to engage in active 
practice, but he took an honorable pride in liis membership of a profes- 
sion which h€ never did one act to discredit. 

The mention of Air. Leeper suggests the name of one who should not 
be suffered to fall into oblivion, for it was one of the strongest passions 
of his own life to perpetuate the memory of the leaders of the Orange 
County bar, by which he was especially deputed to prepare and publish the 
memorial to Mr. Winfield. No one will dissent from a passing tribute to 
the generous instincts and throbbing heart of John K. Goldsmith. 

Henry W. Chadeayne, elected in 1906 supervisor of the town of Corn- 
wall, but practicing in Newburgh, stands out as one of the few men who 



THE r.ENXH AND P.AR. 545 

always says what he thinks. You can always tell where to find him, and 
ihat is just where he says he is. You do not have to go to any one else 
to learn where he stands. Just ask him and you will know. He has no 
pcrtiL-ncc with trimmers and time-servers, lie aKva\s takes the most 
straii^ht roatl possible to any given end. 

This rugged intellectual honesty constitutes a positive force and a 
sterling asset. The public service and the legal profession have no purer 
representative than Henry W. Chadeaync. 

Among the members of the Xewburgh bar who have risen rapidly to 
prominence is James G. Graham, the son of the gifted lawyer already 
referred to. whose full name he bears. Mr. Graham, after four years' 
experience in ])ublic affairs at Albany, in the executive chamber, accepted 
the office of deputy attorney-general, which he held two years. This jx)- 
sition. which has always been a mo>t exacting one. involving the trial 
and argument of cases of great magnitude, was filled by Mr. Graham 
with marked aliilily and to the entire satisfaction of the i)ublic. It was 
duritig his incumbency of this position that Mr. Graham was chiefly in- 
struir.ental in bringing about the creation of the new ninth judicial dis- 
trict — a service for which the Orange County bar can never be suflficiently 
grateful to him. It is to his untiring and influential exertions that we 
are chielly indebted for the creation of a natural, homogeneous judicial 
district, free from the blight and incubus of Kings County — a district in 
which the accession to the bench of Judges Mills, Tompkins and Mor- 
schauser insures the preservation of those standards of judicial dignity, 
decorum, deliberation and, above all. consideration for the rights and 
feelings of the bar, which have been so noblv maintained by their dis- 
tinguished colleague. Judge Keogh. 

The Xewburgh bar has many members ol varying degrees of promi- 
nence and experience, including the venerable Jesse F. Shafer, who was 
born in 1828; Samuel E. Dimmick. who comes from a family of able 
iawvers; Seward U. Round, who worthily bears the famous name be- 
stowed upon him at the time his father was principal of the Seward In- 
stitute at Florida ; Caleb H. Daumes, who is idolized by his brethren of 
the Odd Fellows ; Peter Cantline. aggressive, ambitious and rising, des- 
tined to take his place among the foremc-)St members of the Orange 
County bar ; James M. H. Wallace, earnest, forcible, unflinching, inde- 
fatigable and intellectu.-'.l ; Charles W. U. Sneed. modest, interesting and 



546 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

well informed ; David C. Scott, patient, devoted and industrious ; Leroy 
Dickerson, engaging and efficient; John B. Corwin, the fit successor of 
Louis S. Sterrit as attorney for the Newburgh Savings Bank and, Hke 
him, retiring and reserved until the occasion calls for action, when he is 
eloquent, convincing and powerful ; Frank W. Tompkins, popular and re- 
spected ; George W. May, refined and gentlemanly ; Martin G. Mould, 
courteous and affable ; W. J. Wygant, unassuming and competent ; Reeve 
Ketcham, faithful and energetic; Reuben H. Hilton, U. S. Collector of 
the Port of Newburgh; Russell S. Coutant, accomplished and scholarly; 
Nehemiah Fowler, solid and dignified ; A. D. and A. W. Lent, father and 
son, educated, amiable and conscientious. 

The Walden bar is adorned by the ardent, impulsive, enthusiastic, bril- 
liant A. S. Embler; by the earnest, thoughtful, learned Irving H. Lough- 
ran ; by the bustling, energetic, ambitious Anson J. Fowler,, and by the 
fine natural abilities of Caleb B. Birch, Jr. 

Joseph M. Wilkin, of the Montgomery bar, bears an honored name — 
that of his father, who for several years occupied a prominent position 
at the bar of Tennessee, returning to Orange County at the opening of 
the war on account of his pronounced Union sentiments. He was the 
brother of Judge John G. Wilkin, alreatly referred to, and the two had 
man}' traits of character in common derived from their sterling ancestry. 
It is not strange that tire younger Joseph M. Wilkin should exhibit in 
his present administration of the duties of special surrogate the qualities 
which have always distinguished the members of his famous and honor- 
able family. 

The bar of Montgomery is also strengthened by the high character and 
unquestioned capacity of William L. Dickerson. But Montgomery has 
ceased to be the center of legal interest which it was in the days when 
Edward Van Orsdall organized a suit there at least once a week and 
where he and that once well known member of the Goshen bar, George 
W. Millspaugh, frequently tried out the issues before a jury packed to 
beat one or the other. 

The Middletown bar includes, among its well known members, [-Tenry 
T. Crist, whose personal popularity led to his election as coroner ; Russell 
M. "^'ernon, who has acquired a large practice in the Surrogate's Court ; 
Howard M. Starr, who is performing the duties of justice of the peace- 
John Bright, whose alertness, readiness and general information piedes- 



THE BENCH AXD BAR. 547 

ip.o him to an active career; Jeremiah E. l.'arnes. who served most 
acceptably for several years as the recorder of the city of Middletown, aiivl 
Charles C. Elston. who has manfully overcome many difficulties in estab- 
lishing- and maintaining^ jiis position at the bar. 

The Goshen liar includes among its honored members Charles VV. 
( 'jleman. v.lni. mnwithstanding that he is a martyr to ill health and is 
c<!mpe!led to spend the winters in Florida, retains the confidence and busi- 
ness of a host of personal friends ; also William D. !Mills, who has learn- 
incr enough to equip a dozen lawyers for successful practice. 

Louis Bedel!, of the Goshen bar, secured at Albany in the Assembly a 
more powerful personal influence than any n.iember from his district ever 
enjoved. with the exception of his former partner, George W. Greene. 
This was. of course, partly due to the wisdom of the electors in keeping 
him there. But Mr. r>edeirs man}- qualifications for success in public 
life accounted in a large degree for the extent of his influence. A lawyer 
is always needed in either the Assembly or the Senate and no amount of 
good fellowship or general intelligence can make up for the lack of legal 
training and experience. 

Joseph ^lerritt, of Goshen, whose diffidence prevents his coming into 
prominence before the public is, however, unable to conceal from his 
professional brethren his very superior legal attainments. He is a lawyer 
of tl;e very first rank. His opinion is respected and followed in many 
in-<tanv:es in which the court is unaware that it is he who has guided it to 
a correct conclusion. 

Philip A. Rorty. of the Goshen bar. has gone rapidly to the front. The 
wide experience gained by him in the extensive business established by 
the firm of Bacon ..^ .Merritt, in which he is a partner, has been used by 
him to great advantage. He is entrusted with the preparation of impor- 
tant cases, in the trial of which also he takes a considerable and highly 
creditable part. Me is an expert in railroad law and in the law of 
negligence. 

T. Floyd Halstead. of Goshen, is the son of one of the most warm- 
hearted, noble, honorable men who ever lived — the late John R. Hal- 
stead of Unionvillc. If he will but enuilate in private and professional life 
the virtues of his most estimable father he will be sure to continue and 
confirm the success which has already in a large measure attended upon 
him. 



548 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

J. V. D. Benedict, of Warwick, represented his district in the Assembly 
in the year 1877. His suavity of manner and moderation of speech are 
the sincere reflection of a kind, generous and affectionate nature. 

His interest in various pursuits has interfered with the singleness of 
his devotion to the law, but his opinion upon difficult questions has often 
been sought and followed with the most satisfactory results to himself 
and to his clients. 

Ciilford S. Beattie, of Warwick, who is associated in business with 
his father, Judge Beattie, settled in his old home after a most valuable and 
enlightening experience as one of the legal staff of the Metropolitan 
Railway system in New York. He possesses an individuality, an inde- 
pendence and a strength of character which prevent his being over- 
shadowed by the great reputation of his father. But if he did not have 
these qualities he would not be a Beattie. 

IvCwis J. Stage, of Warwick, who is associated in business with Mr. 
Kane, under the name of Kane & Stage, had the good sense to voluntarily 
resign the office of justice of the peace — that grave of professional ambi- 
tion; that rock upon which so many a professional career has foundered. 
Since then he has made strides in reputation and influence. 

Mr. Stage has always taken an active part in the educational, philan- 
thropic, historical and religious interests of the community. His sincerity 
in this is manifest and unquestioned. He is free from all forms of cant 
and pretense, sham and affectation. 

John Miller, of Cornwall-on-Hudson, whose memory goes back to the 
days of McKissock, is a verital^le encyclopedia of the law ; a storehouse 
of principles and authorities; a reservoir of unlimited capacity; a fountain 
of perennial flow. H he had been as able to apply, discriminate and 
assimilate as he has been to accumulate stores of knowledge his abilities 
would undoubtedly have been more widely recognized. 

Thomas S. Hulse, of Westtown, has long enjoyed the advantage of 
being the only lawyer in town. He is often consulted upon the controver- 
sies arising in it and his influence is always for peace rather than strife, 
for settlement rather than litigation. His solid worth of character com- 
mands for him universal and unchallenged respect. 

Frank R. Gump, of fTighland Falls, signalized his entrance into prac- 
tice at the Orange County Bar by bringing the unusual action of a man 
against a woman for her breach of promise in refusing to marry him. He 



THE r.EX'CH AND BAR. 549 

lias been the attorney for some most im[)ortant interests involved in 
actions brought to determine priority of water rights. The ability shown 
b}' him in the management of these cases and especially in the examination 
and cross-examination of the witnesses in several trials has given him a 
recognized position at the bar of the county. 

Frank Lybolt, of Port Jervis, who filled most competently a term of 
office as special county judge, has tried sotne cases in the Supreme Court 
with an intelligence, earnestness and spirit which attracted the attention 
of his professional brethren. 

Wilton Bennet, of Port Jcrvi'^, has given special attention to the trial 
of criminal cases in which his zeal, earnestness, boldness and eloquence 
have given to him many professional victories and to his clients many 
occasions for profound and lasting gratitude. 

William P. Gregg, of the Port Jervis jjar. has, by his straightforward 
and manly character, impressed himself most favorably upon the com- 
munity, tlis ability as a lawyer received deserved recognition in Janu- 
ary. K/^r, when he was appointed the tax ajipraiser of Orange County. 

Henry l'. Fullerton, of Port Jervis, greatly resembles in character and 
ability his relative, Daniel Fullerton, who, though he did not attain the 
eminence of his brothers. A\'illiam and Stephen W. Fullerton, possessed 
more original gifts and natural eloquence than either of them. 

The Port Jervis bar is also enriched by the fine character and sterling 
abilities of Alfred ^Marvin and R. Edward Schofield. 

William A. Parshall, of Port Jervis, who was at one time associated 
with A[r. Carr in the protection of the interests of the Erie Railroad 
Company, has won the respect of the community and of his professional 
brethren by the high-minded, honorable, sincere and manly course which 
he has always pursued in every walk of life, private, public and profes- 
■-ional. 

His splendid vote in the autumn of 1907 for the office of surrogate 
attests the popular esteem in which he is held. 

John B. Swczcy. his successful competitor, entered upon the duties of 
the office of surrogate in January, K;oS. 

He was for many years the attorney for the Mifldletown State Hos- 
pital and he has occupied many other positions of responsibility, the duties 
of which he has always discb.arged with fidelity and ability. His service 
as special surrogate brought the bar of the county into close acquaintance 



550 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

with his superior judicial quahfications and prepared it to expect his ele- 
vation to still higher judicial station. 

Orange County has always been fortunate in its surrogates and the 
friends of Judge Swezey confidentl}- expect hira to maintain unsullied 
the traditions and the standards set b)- such predecessors as Scott and 
Coleman, Wadsworth and ilowell. 

Obadiah P. Howell retired from the office of surrogate on the first of 
January, 1908, after an incumbency of twelve years, with the profound 
respect of the bar and of tlie public for both his character and his attain- 
ments. Judge Howell possesses an evenly balanced, well poised character 
which admirably fitted him for the duties of tliis position. 

His abilities as a lawyer were also brought into constant requisition 
during his terms of office on account of the many new questions which 
arose under the operation of the transfer tax statutes. These questions 
were disposed of by him with rigid impartiality, zealous regard for every 
interest represented, and deep anxiety to arrive at a just and sound con- 
clusion. His careful discrimination in applying the principles of law in- 
volved has resulted in a body of decisions which command the respect 
of both the bar and the judiciary. 

Judge Howell was always most conservative. Such was his veneration 
for the last wishes of a dying testator that if he ever felt it his duty to 
set aside a will, the fact is not generally known. He gave no encourage- 
ment to those frivolous and often merely speculative or intimidating- con- 
tests which have done so much to bring probate administration into re- 
proach in many jurisdictions. 

Judge Howell always exhibited one .characteristic which commands 
special commendation. He never tolerated the merely perfunctory per- 
fonnance of their duties bv guardians appointed to represent the interests 
of minors or incompetents. He exacted the most careful investigation of 
their rights to the end that they should be fully protected and he so exer- 
cised his authority in making appointments as to insure this result. His 
administration will go down to history as one of the purest and ablest in 
the annals of the county. 

Roswell C. Coleman, who preceded Judge liowell in the office of surro- 
gate, occupying it for twelve years (18S3-1895), entered upon his duties 
with peculiar qualifications for their successful discharge. His profes- 
sional bent had always been in the direction of practice in the Surrogate's 



THE UEiXCH AND BAR. 551 

Court and of interest in ail the questions arising in the construction of 
wills. Moreover he began his practice with the senior Joseph W. Gott, 
an association from which he could not fail h< derivL- benefit as well as 
pleasure. 

Mis eminently judicial temperament was early recognized by the judges 
and by his associates with the result that, in the days when references 
were far more common than they are now, owing to the inadequacy of 
the judicial force and the necessity for auxiliary requisitions upon the 
profession, Mr. (.."olenian was constantly designated by the court and by 
consent of counsel to serve in important references. His absolute fair- 
ness, his love of justice, his freedom from influence and his unerrmg 
judgment made him the favorite referee in the county during that entire 
period of imperfect judicial service which was supplemented in him by 
an ability fully equal to that of the judge appointing him. I remember 
an occasion wdien judge Barnard, in announcing the selection of Mr. 
Coleman as referee, remarked to the attorney, "Don't let him get after 
you with his gun," referring to his well-known experience in 1875 as a 
member of the first American rifle team that ever went abroad, ]\Ir. Cole- 
man returning with several prizes for his skilful marksmanship. 

Mr. Coleman's tenure of the office of surrogate was distinguished for 
the display of those high judicial qualities with which the entire bai had 
become acquainted in his frequent exercise of them as referee. Indeed, 
so great was the respect in which they were held that in many contests 
involving large interests, the parties acquiesced in his decision as final, the 
defeated party taking no appeal. 1 his was notably the case in the matter 
of the will of John S. Sammons, in which all his property was given to 
a church u?x)n the condition that it should care perpetually for his tomb. 
The church took no apj^eal from the decision of Surrogate Coleman re- 
fusing to admit the will to probate. The opinion of the surrogate is a 
masterly review of the law of insane delusions as affecting testamentary 
capacity, pointing out that a will may often be upheld notwithstanding 
the presence of insane delusions when those delusions do not tend to pro- 
duce the will. But in this case the will was rejected because the delusion 
under which the testator labored did govern him in the disposition of his 
property, he having formed the delusion that his body w-as to be pre- 
served to the end of time and having given his property to the church to 
secure the protection of his tomb from disturbance. The opinion con- 



552 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

tains a vei'v subtle, acute and interesting discussion of other delusions 
cherished by the testator which would not in themselves have invalidated 
the will, but which are considered as bearing upon the liability of the 
testator to form a delusion by which he was controlled in the disposition 
of his property. 

Although the case attracted great attention, the opinion of the surro- 
gate never was reporrted. For this reason it is especially appropriate that 
a partial report of it should be preserved in this all too perishable record. 
The case constitutes, also, one of the notable legal victories of Henry 
W. Wiggins, who appeared for the contestants. 

Mr. Coleman since his retirement from the bench has been honored 
with many marks of continued confidence in his judicial qualifications. 
No lawyer now living commands greater respect for the simplicity of his 
life, the purity of his character, the force of his example, the vigor of 
his manhood, the solidity of his attainments and the genuineness of his 
learning than does Roswell C. Coleman. 

Henry A. Wadsworth, who preceded Mr. Coleman in twelve years' 
incumbency of the office of surrogate, brought to its duties a large fund of 
practical knowledge, common sense and capacity for afi'airs. His legal at- 
tainments were ample and he was deeply anxious in every case to arrive at 
a sound and just decision. His place in the afifections of the bar was 
accurately as well as touchingly set forth in the memorial address of 
Judge Hirschberg, in which he said : 

■'The sweetness and gentleness of his nature, his geniai and frank 

spirit, the generous impulses of his heart, and the broad and engaging 

•charity of hi? views are known best to the favored few who rejoiced in 

;his intimate companionship. His hand was open as the day to melting 

tcharity. His dealings were ever plain, straightforward and direct. He 

despised all shams and affectations. To his friends he was the very soul 

of unselfish loyalty, and to the party which honored both him and itself 

in his elevation, and in whose counsels he was ever a trusted leader, he 

rendered always a manly and unfaltering allegiance. A loving- husband, 

an affectionate and indulgent father, a wise, honest and safe adviser, an 

unstained lawyer, an incorruptible judge, and a loyal friend are buried 

in his grave. And if amid the good of his great nature there was 

mingled any blemish or alloy of human fault or folly, let us to whom his 

name is now but a sweet and tender memory 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 553 

'No further seek his merits to disclose 

Nor draw his fraihies from their dread abode, 
(There they ahke in trombhng hope repose) 
The bosom of his Fatlier and his God.' " 

Gilbert O. Hulse, who preceded Mr. Wadsworth in the office of stirro- 
g'atc, still survives at the age of eighty-four to relate his reminiscences 
of the bench and Ijar of a previous generation. Before coming to this 
office in 1868 he had enjoxed a large professional experience which fully 
qualified him for his duties. He was engaged in many notable cases, in 
one of which, attracting great attention at the time, he established a lost 
will many years after it had been wrongfully destroyed and secured the 
property till then denied to its rightful owners, his clients. ]\Iuch of his 
professional life has been passed in the city of New York but he retains 
his residence in Orange County, in which he was born in 1824, and with 
which his ancestors had been identified since 1775. 

The early j^art of the last century was marked by the rise in Orange 
County of an able and progressive bar, whose courage and public spirit 
contributed to keep alive the fires of exalted patriotism. Jonathan Fisk, 
who removed to Newburgh in 1800, became one of the most influential citi- 
zens of the county, being elected twice to congress and being appointed 
twice United States attorney for the Southern District of New York. 

Henry G. \\ isner, who was admitted in 1802, settled in Goshen in 
1810, where for thirty years he stood forth as its most prominent citizen, 
its most active philanthropist and one of its foremost lawyers. 

Walter Case, who also was admitted in 1802, settled in Newburgh. 
serx-ing in Congress and becoming the surrogate of the county in 1823 
for a term of four years. His scholarly tastes and literary gifts still find 
inherited expression through the cultured mind of his descendant, Walter 
Case Anthony. 

David W. Bate and Thomas ]\lcKissock. who were associated under 
the name of Bate & ]\IcKissock, were strong and able men, exercising a 
wide and potent influence. Judge Bate was elected county judge in 1847. 
Judge McKissock was appointed supreme court judge to serve for a few 
months and was elected to Congress in 184'). 

William C. Hasbrouck, who studied with Mr Wisner. was admitted in 
1826 and began his practice in Newburgh. where he resided until his 
death. He was speaker of the .Assembly in 1847 and attracted attention 



554 '-L^HE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and admiration abroad as well as at home b\- a courtly presence and 
charming" address, united to robust manhood and sturdy principles. He 
enio\ed the personal friendship of many prominent men of every shade 
of opinion, including Sam Houston, Andrew Jackson and William H. 
Seward. He died in 1870. 

Benjamin F. Duryea idled a large place in the life of the county. Ad- 
mitted in 1839, he became surrogate in 1847 ^"'^' count}- judge in 1855. 
His opinion upon any state of facts submitted to him was regarded by his 
associates of the bar as conclusive upon the cjuestions of law involved. 
His son, Henry C. Duryea, whose career was marred by precarious health, 
survived him until 1906. 

Of all the able lawyers who have kept bright the fame of the Goshen 
bar, perhaps no one ever exhibited greater force of character or made a 
deeper impression upon his fellow citizens than Samuel J. Wilkin, who 
was admitted to the bar in 181 5 and who practiced in Goshen from that 
time until his death in 1866. He served with distinction in Congress and 
in the Senate of the State. His fiery eloquence, commanding presence 
and lofty character live in traditions that will long preserve his name 
from indifference or his memory from neglect. His daughter Sara be- 
came the wife of ex-Surrogate Roswell C. Coleman. His father, General 
James W. Wilkin, was also a distinguished man, serving in the Senate, 
Assembly and Congress, and coming within one vote of being elected 
to the United States Senate. 

Oliver Yoiuig rose to conspicuous influence and weight in Port Jervis 
soon after his removal there in 1849. He lived during- the period of 
political unrest which soon afterwards set in, and he was the foremost 
champion of anti-slavery principles in the county at a time when his 
sentiments were highly unpopular. He survived to set the once decried 
abolitionists acclaimed by the arbitrament of war and the verdict of his- 
tory the most advance;! statesmen of their century. He died in 1871. 

This brings our narrative to the point of time from which the direct 
connection of the Orange County bar with the events of that stirring 
period and with the subsequent history of the county has been traced. 

When it is considered that, in the sixty years preceding the publication 
of Eager's History of Orange County in 1847, no less than one hundred 
and seventy-five lawyers were admitted to practice in Orange County, 
their names appearing in the appendix to that volume; and that, in the 



- THE BENXH AND BAR. 



cro 



sixty years now elapsed since its publication, fully as many more have 
been added to the number, it will readily be seen how impossible it is to 
undertake, in one department of a general count}- history, a sketch of 
many, among the living and the dead, whose estimable career it would be 
a pleasure to follow and depict. The purpose of this review and the treat- 
ment of its themes are entirely different from the plan and method 
adopted in Ruttenber's History of Orange County published in i88i, to 
which the reader is referred for such dates as may not be accessible here 
m respect to some of the lawyers who nourished before that time; while 
to Eager's history is referred the reader who may seek simply the names 
i>\ those who were admitted to practice before ]S47. 

The bar of Orange County has also contributed to wider fields of 
acii\ity many who have ref.ected high honor upon the place of their 
professional nativity. One of these was Benjamin F. Dunning, who. 
when he was in practice in Goshen in 1853, was invited by the leader of 
ihe New York bar, Charles O'Conor, to become associated with him. 
That veteran of the Orange County clerk's office, Charles G. Elliot, who 
has seen three generations of lawyers come upon the scene, told me that 
he was in the clerk's ottice when Mr. Dunning received the letter from 
.Mr. O'Conor containing this proposition and saw him show it to Nathan 
Westcott, then a leading lawyer of the county and once its district attor- 
ney, whose brilliant career was interrupted by paralysis resulting from a 
fall from a wagon. Mr. Westcott handed the letter back to Mr. Dunning 
with the remark that Mr. Dunning would never live to receive a higher 
h( nor than this evidence of ]Mr. O'Conor's admiration and confidence. 
Tliis confidence was abundantly justified in the long years of Mr. Dun- 
iiing's association with Mr. O'Conor, which continued until Mr. O'Conor 
retired from practice. 

William I'ulkrton also was invited by Charles O'Conor to New York, 
where he soon established a reputation as the most superb cross-e-xaminc 
of his generation and as an advocate of remarkable gifts. He retained 
until hi? death his residence in Newburgh, wh.ere he had originalh' been 
associated in practice with James W. Fowler, whose honorable service 
as the surrogate of Orange County from 1851 to 1855 ^^ ^^'^' remembered. 

lohn Diier. after several years of practice in Goshen, went in 1S20 tn 
New York, where he became a justice of the .Superior Court and the 
author of several Aaluable textbooks. His fame is preserved in iiis writ- 



556 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ings, though these give no conception of the effect of his noble presence 
and impassioned oratory. 

Of course, the reputation which towers above that of any man ever born 
in Orange Coimty is that of William H. Seward, who studied law in 
Goshen with John Duer and Ogden Hoffman,. This is not because he 
was a greater lawyer than either of his preceptors but because his career 
as a United States senator in the period of excitement before the Civil 
War, his valuable services as Secretary of State in the crisis of our 
national life and his farseeing statesmanship in acquiring the territory of 
Alaska, have written his name large upon the roll of everlasting fame. 

Ogden Hoffman, indeed, excelled him in all the attributes of a great 
lawyer. Admitted to the bar in 1818 and elected district attorney of 
Orange County in 1823, his transcendent abilities soon drew him to New 
York, where he transfixed the wondering gaze of its brilliant bar, which 
welcomed into its firmament this star of first magnitude. Benjamin D. 
.Silliman, one of its leaders, in an address made in 1889, thus refers to 
him : "the fascinating Ogden Hoffman, the Erskine of our bar, at which 
he became powerful and eminent and captivated all by his art and his 
wonderful eloquence ; his voice was music from the note of a lute to the 
blast of a bugle." Luther R. Marsh, when opposed to him once upon a 
trial, sought to forestall the dreaded effect of the speech in which Hoffman 
was to follow by describing him as one who "could rise upon the heaving 
exigencies of the moment, and at whose bidding instant creations and 
mighty embodyings of thought and argument, sublime conceptions, glow- 
ing analogies and living imagery burst as by miracle from the deep of 
mind in overshadowing forms of majesty and power." 

George Clinton and his nephew, DeWitt Clinton, are claimed by Ulster 
County, because New Windsor, the town in which they were born was, at 
the time, a part of Ulster County, it not having been set oft' to Orange 
County until 1799. But their fame has passed beyond the trivial rivalries 
of county pride. It belongs to the State and to the Nation. George CHn- 
ton died in 1812, vice-president of the United States. DeW'itt Clinton 
died in 1828, governor of the State of New York. 

In our own time, too. Orange County has contributed to the br.r of the 
State many distinguished ornanients. The brilliant career of Lewis E. 
Carr, once its district attorney, but now a member of the Albany bar, has 
alreadv been outlined. 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 557 

George W. !McElroy is a mcniber of the Orange County bar, now repre- 
senting it at Albany, of which the bar is particularly proud. In the 
intervals of his official dut'es in the Transfer lax bureau he prepared a 
work upon the transfer tax law which affords abundant evidence of his 
industry, research and learning. 

.Mr. McElroy's service as special surrogate of the county at the time 
that he resided in Warwick, was distinguished for some opinions which 
showed his marked qualifications for judicial station. He wrote an opin- 
iiiii in a case involving the question whether the statute of limitations runs 
in favor of an administrator, in which the doctrine maintained by him 
was not generally accepted by the courts ; but later the courts adopted and 
enforced the view which he, at one time, was almost alone in asserting. 

Mr. McElroy is assured of a warm welcome from his brethren of the 
Orange County bar when he is ready to exchange the weary, dreary, 
depressing treadmill of department officialism for the pleasant, refreshing, 
verdured paths of general practice. 

John n. Kerr, of the Xewburgh bar, is another lawyer of whom Orange 
County is indeed proud, though he has now been separated for some years 
from its personal associations and activities, having accepted the position 
of general counsel for the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad Com- 
pany. In tins responsible position he finds unusual opportunity to exer- 
cise and develop those qualities of sound judgment, rare foresight, steady 
poise and intellectual grasp in which he so excels and of which his early 
career at the bar gave abundant promise. 

Thomas P. Fowler, whose home is in W^arwick, and who was at one 
time a member of the firm led by his distinguished father-in-law, Benja- 
min F. Dunning, has acquired a position in the railroad and financial 
world which reconciles him to his withdrawal from the activities of his 
profession. The masterly ability shown by him in making the New York. 
r)ntario & Western Railroad Company one of the most important anci 
valuable railroad properties of the country has given him national promi- 
nence and reputation. 

John j\I. Gardner, formerly of the Xewburgh bar, settled in New York, 
where his chief reputation has been gained in actions against corporations. 
He is a recognized authority in the law of negligence, having won many 
important cases and having edited for some years a series of reports spe- 
cially devoted to case<< ot negligence. Mr. Gardner was born in Warwick, 



558 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

to \\hich lovely spot he frequently returns. ITis career in Newburgh was 
distinguished by the same qualities which have commanded success in 
a broader field. Ilis line presence, unfailing resources, entire self-posses- 
sion, tireless energy, dauntless courage and impressive delivery combine to 
make him one of the most formidable trial lawyers of the State. 

Amos \'an Etten, who began hi? practice in Port Jervis, removed to 
Kingston, where he very soon established his title to recognition as one 
of the leaders of the Ulster County bar, a position which he now holds 
b\- general acknowledgment of both the bar and the public. 

Mr. Van Etten, as the attorney for the New York Central Railroad, 
and ofi other public service corporations, has been compelled to give his 
chief attention to railroad and negligence law. though he commands also a 
W'ide general practice. His success has been emphatic, pronounced and 
permanent. 

William EI. Stoddard, formerly of the Middletown bar, has become a 
prominent member of the Buffalo bar. He is original, independent and 
entertaining m his addresses to juries, while his conversation is full of 
wit. sally and anecdote. 

One day there came to his ofifice on old client whose wife had just left 
him to take up her abode with another man. His client was in deep 
dejection and wanted comfort. This is the way "Stod" — as he was famil- 
iarly called by his friends — gave it to him. He said: "Cheer up, John, 
brace up : why, there are a dozen men in Middletown who would be glad 
to be in vour shoes to-day.'' 

Referring once to the wife of a friend, who was known to be a terma- 
gant, he said : "She's the most even-tempered woman I ever knew — 
always mad." 

This faculty of bold, rapid characterization has ahvays prevented him 
from being dull either in his speeches or in social life. He is nothing if 
not interesting. His rare qualities of mind and heart endeared him to a 
large Orange County circle, which still afl'ectionately remembers him. 

William. .S. Bennett, formerly of the Port Jervis bar, removed to New 
\or.k, where his career has been one of uninterrupted prosperity and 
promotion. He is now representing his district in Congress, where he 
has already achieved distinction in that most difficult of all places in which 
to compel immediate recognition. 

His abilities have been so conspicuous and the esteem of his colleagues 



THE BENCH AND BAR. ss'J 

I'.a> bt'cM so unmistakably nianifcstecl that the attention of the entire 
coimtry has been tixetl ii])on tliis still cherished son of Orange County. 

Not only lias (. )ranLje Ctnnity sent forth many lawyers whose names 
have become famous throughout tlic world, but Orange County is the 
Mecca to which many of the country's ablest lawyers repair to spend 
their declining years, attracted by its beauty antl invigorated by its atmos- 
phere. Benjamin F. Tracy, (jnce secretary of the navy and long one of 
the leading advocate? of the bar of Brooklyn and New York, now spends 
much of his time upon his beloved farm near Goshen. General Henry 
L. Burnett, prominent in Ohio and New York, whose life of high adven- 
ture and brilliant achievement possesses all the interest of romance, also 
finds upon his Goshen estate the leisure in which to charm a choice circle 
of friends old and new with reminiscences of the famous men with whom 
he has been associated on equal terms and of the stirring scenes in which 
he has so honorably and conspicuously mingled. 

' )range County, which has in days gone by attracted to itself the sensi- 
tive poet, Nathaniel P. Willis, the scholarly historian, Joel T. Headley, 
the gifted lawyer. I.uther R. Marsh, and the still vigorous publicist, John 
Bigelow, will never cease to have a charm for the retired veteran of let- 
ters and the law\ It should never cease to interest also the active and alert 
practitioner who, on its rugged hills and in its peaceful valleys and by its 
murmuring streams and from its bracing atmosphere can draw vitality, 
inspiration and delight — strength for the duties of each succeeding hour 
as he seeks to emulate the lofty virtues and resplendent talents of those 
whose eyes, like his. once wandered with rapture over its entrancing 
prospects. 



NOTE BY THE EDITOR. 

The Editor deeply regrets that since the modesty of the author has 
forbidden any reference to himself this review of the period in which 
^[r. \^anamee him.self has borne so honorable and conspicuous a part 
cmtains uo description of his own brilliant career as an advocate. But 
though it is thus unavoidable that his signal talents and accomplishments 
should not be spedif:cally portrayed in these pages, still the intelligent 
reader will not fail to perceive in these graphic estimates of his contem- 
poraries an unconscious reflection of his own commanding character, 
loftv ideals and acknowledged abilities. 



56o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXXni. 

THE MEDICAL HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

By John T. Howell, M.D. 

THE early history of Orange County is intimately connected with 
the physicians who practiced there, and had they undertaken the 
task, it is logical to assume that no citizens could have narrated 
the history of their day and locality hetter than they. Unfortunately the 
duties and hardships then attendant upon the practice of medicine sc 
limited outside literary work as to have left even the annals of medicine 
bare of many important facts which it would seem ought to have been 
recorded. It is stated that at one time Dr. David R. Arnell expressed his 
intention to write a history of Orange County, but he failed to carry out 
this undertaking which he was so well qualified to perform. 

In the earlier periods of the county's existence medical education began 
to feel the impulse of independence and the wider knowledge resulting 
therefrom, developed a higher standard of practice. 

This advancement was undoubtedly favored by the self-dependence 
brought out in practice through widely separated settlements, and Orange 
County early established a reputation for skilful physicians. The re- 
nowned traits and ability of many of these physicians remain only in tradi- 
tion, but the anecdotes told of some of them show that they were men 
of more than ordinary attainments. Among those physicians best known 
in the early history of the county are Dr. Cadwallader Golden, who, be- 
sides being a medical author of note, was honored with the title of Lieu- 
tenant-Colonial Governor ; Dr. Moses Highby, who is remembered by his 
successful use of an emetic in the case of a British spy, and Dr. Benjamin 
Tusten for his heroism at the battle of Minisink. Other physicians have 
no doubt rendered equally meritorious services in less conspicuous ways, 
but being unrecorded remain rmcredited in history. 

Some interesting statistics have been collected by Dr. W. L. Cuddeback 
regarding the average length of stay of about ninety physicians who 
settled in Port Jervis and vicinity. Of these, sixty-five per cent, removed 
or died within five years : eighty per cent, before ten years ; eighty-five per 




John T. Howell, M.D. 



MKDICAl. llISroKV OF ORANGE COUNTY. 561 

cent, before fifteen years, and ninety per eent. before the end of twenty 
years of practice there. Tlie reasons for this well known lack of per- 
manency and short longevity of physicians are best understood by those 
who really know the peculiar trials, dangers and discouragements of the 
daily life of a doctor. The character developed by the experiences of 
thirty or forty years of medical practice is logically one worthy of admir- 
ation and emulation and this is ])roven by the appreciative and unshaken 
position uniformly held by the old family physician "Our doctor." 

A perusal of the older records reveal many interesting customs and 
practices of the physicians of those days. Travel was generally on horse- 
back and the distances were often so great that meal hour or nightfall 
compelled the weary doctor to accept the proffered hospitality of his 
patients. Saddle bags were made to hold a veritable armamentum and the 
doctor must tarry long enough to ])ut u]j his own prescriptions. Blood- 
letting, blistering and emetics were remedies often employed and were, 
perhaps, as potent frtr good as some other extreme measures which were 
later substituted with greater confidence and found after all to have but a 
limited field of usefulness. The average physician has but little time for 
public a ft airs, but a number of the Orange County doctors have held 
public offices both in the County and as representatives in the State and 
National legislatures. In times of war. too, our doctors names are found 
enrolled in the military lists and their records there have been most cred- 
itable. Other physicians seem to have found time for literary pursuits; 
but these efTorts have been mostly along medical lines. The patriotic gift 
of the Minisink Monument by one of their number is a matter of great 
pride and satisfaction to the physicians of this county. 

The records of the Oraiii^e County Medical Society, although abbre- 
viated. i)resent the local history of medicine more fully than it is to be 
fiinnd elsewhere. I-'veu here we ma\" search in vain for data which tlie 
busy physicians who have acted as secretaries have failed to record. How- 
ever, extending as thev do over nearly the whole of the last century we 
can tind many facts of interest, e^peciallv in the earlier years of its exist- 
ence. No county society was formed until after the passage of an act of 
the Legislature, April 4, 1806. This law. untler which the (Grange County 
and twelve other countv societies were soon incorporated, permitted each 
licensed physician in the county to become a charter member and each 
society to elec-t ?i representative to the State society, which was to be 



562 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

composed of such delegates. The county society had the right to examine 
both physicans desiring to practice in the county and students of medicine 
who apphed for hcenses. 

Upon the first pages of the minutes is found a concise report of the 
organization of the Medical Society of the County of Orange, with the 
names of the founders and ofticers elected. It reads in part as follows : 

"Agreeable to a law of the State of New York, passed the fourth day 
of April, 1806, entitled "An Act to incorporate Medical Societies for the 
purpose of regulating the practice of Physic and Surgery in this State,' 
the physicians and surgeons of Orange County met at the Court House in 
Gosihen on Tuesday, the first day of July, 1806." 

"Drs. Jonathan Swezy, Chairman (pro tem), Thomas Wickham, Clerk 
(pro tem), Elijah Randall, William Elmer, William Elliott, Samuel S. 
Seward, Benjamin S. Hoyt, Nathaniel Elmer, Elisha DuBois, Charles 
Fowler, David R. Arnell, Samuel Warner, William McCoppin, Aaron 
M. Smith, William Gourley, Elihu Hedges, Eleazer Gedney, Ethan Wat- 
son, Cornelius Roosa, James Bradner, Henry I. Hornbeck and Elijah 
Welch were present and produced their several licenses to practice physic. 
The Society then proceeded to organize and elect officers when the follow- 
ing gentlemen were elected for the ensuing year : Dr. Jonathan Swezy, 
President ; Dr. Samuel S. Seward, Vice-President ; Dr. Nathaniel Elmer, 
Secretary ; and Dr. Thomas Wickham, Treasurer. 

"Drs. Anthony Davis, Joseph Houston, Joseph Whelan and Jonathan 
Hedges were, upon examination, licensed to practice physic and surgery 
in this State and admitted members to this Society. Dr. David R. Arnell 
was elected delegate to the Medical vSociety of the State of New York." 

"Drs. Anthony Davis, Elisha DuBois, Charles Fowler, Joseph Whelan 
and Cornelius Davis were appointed censors." 

The minutes of the earlier meetings were admirably kept and are still 
jn- an excellent state of preserv'^ation. 

The autographs of the founders and other members who signed the 
by-laws form an interesting and valuable collection. The by-laws were 
carefully drawn and consisted of twenty-six articles. Meetings were held 
semi-annually or quarterly, and, as indicated by the titles, the papers read 
and discussed were of a high order. Notwithstanding such evidences of 
proficiency I find that these physicians were very poorly paid. In a rate 
list adopted by the society in 1807, the charge for a visit of less than one 



.MI'.DICAL HISTORY ol" (JRAXGE COIXIA'. 563 

mile was but t\\ cnty-ti\e cents, with a coiTes])onclini^ low ehars^e for medi- 
cines furnished, and. the largest fee asked for any operation was one hun- 
dred dollars. 

]Jr. Arnell. who may be called the father ()f the ( )range County Medi- 
cal Society, was elected president of the society eight times and was a 
charter member of the State Society. In 1818 he presented a library to 
the society. It contained fifty volumes, which, with five of the best medi- 
cal periodicals, were circulated among the members throughout the 
comity. Tliis collection formed a nucleus for subsequent additions and a 
valuable and useful library was maintained for many years. 

In 1830 the memliership of the society numbered sixty, of whom 
twenty-five attended the annual meeting. 

Among notable resolutions passed was one in 1830 endor<.ing the Ameri- 
can Temperance Society and the tenets of temperance in general; in 1832 
the formation of health boards in each town; and in 1839 a resolution 
recommending a change in the method of examining and licensing stu- 
dents of medicine, the whole to be placed in tlic hands of the Regents, 
was forwarded to the State Medical Society. Such efforts were 
highly creditable and progressi\e. as is shown by the fact that the law 
providing for the last named recommendation was net passed until 1893. 

An important amendment to the by-laws adopted at a meeting in 1840 
marks the beginning of a prolonged and troublesome epoch of contro- 
versy over medical ethics, especially in regard to sectarian forms of prac- 
tice, including homeopathy, then being introduced in this vicinity. 

The status of practice among the members of the society having aKvays 
been regular (i. c, belonging to the general school of scientific medicine 
and not restricted by any sect or pathy), much criticism w'as aroused by 
the attempt of some of the local physicians to practice according to 
Hahnemann's Laws of "Like cures like." "Medicinal potency increased by 
dilution," etc. 

An application for membershij> to die society from a physician who 
practiced that system was promptly rejected at the next meeting and 
much discussion ensued. The subject was frequently referred to in the 
minutes of the meetings for a number of subsequent years, and in 1851 
several members were expelled from the society for practicing homeo- 
pathy. Rules fof bidding members to consult with homeopathic physicians 
were passed, and in 1856 there was prepared and j^rintcd for public infor- 



564 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

mation a system of popular ethics, explaining fully the position of the 
society regarding the whole subject of ethics. Feeling ran high over the 
matter for a long time, as is shown by the lengthy discussions and resolu- 
tions devoted to the subject in the minutes, year after year. Gradually, as 
it became evident that there was an increasing abandonment of sectarian 
practice, a reaction came; but it was not until 1883 that this society, fol- 
lowing the lead of the State Society, adopted a new code which permitted, 
under reasonable restrictions, consultations between regular and sectarian 
practitioners. 

Dr. Merritt Fl. Cash, by his will in i86t, left a legacy to the State 
Society of five hundred dollars which is known as "The Merritt H. Cash 
Fund." The fund now amounts to seven hundred and fifty dollars and 
the interest is devoted to a prize essay written by members of the county 
medical societies throughout the State. Dr. Cash also left four thousand 
dollars for the monument erected at Goshen in honor of those who fell at 
the battle of Minisink. The society was, of course, much interested in 
this event and was accorded a prominent place at the unveiling of the 
monument July 22, 1862. 

Four members represented this society and served as surgeons with 
credit and distinction during the Civil War : Dr. R. V. K. Montfort and 
Dr. J. H. Thompson in the T24th, Dr. Solomon Van Etten in the 56th. 
and Dr. Theodore Cooper (assistant surgeon) in the 156th regiment of 
volunteers. 

Jn 1879 the society received a special invitation to attend the celebra- 
tion of the centennial of the battle of Minisink. This invitation was in 
recognition of the county's obligation to the donor, Dr. Merritt H. Cash, 
and for the patriotic and heroic services rendered by Dr. Benjamin Tusten 
at the battle of Minisink. July 22, 1779, where his life was sacrificed in 
the actual performance of his professional duties. 

The last quarter of the century is notable in the history of the society 
for a renewal of interest and increased literary work. This was the devel- 
opmental era of antiseptic and aseptic surgery, and the records, as shown 
by the papers read and the cases reported, were creditable to the progres- 
sive spirit and practice of the members of the society. 

A resolution to the efifect that all members of the society, in good stand- 
ing for thirty years, be constituted honorary members was adopted in June, 
1887. This honor was accordingly bestowed upon Dr. Bartow Wright, 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COL'XTY. 565 

whose nieiiibcrsliip dated from 1834, and upon Dr. Harvey Everett, who 
joined ilie society in i8j<;. The former died in iSgo and the latter April 
8. i8(/). havings been a member of the society for sixty years. 

In iS()5 revised by-laws were adopted, one of which admitted to mem- 
bership anv licensed physician who declared his full abne.ci^ation of sec- 
tarian principles and practice. This invitation was an expression of a 
principle and belief which it is hoped will in the near future rally all 
physicians to a broad standard of practice, ami the recent law enacted, 
which provides but one lx>ard of examiners to grant State licenses to 
physicians of all schools, is another hopeful sign of medical unity. 

In 1898. at the breakihg out of <^he war with Spain, Dr. James R. 
Wood, a member of this society, volunteered and accompanied the loist 
Regiment to Cuba. There he afterwards died in the performance of his 
duties, which were those of endeavoring to render sanitary the almost im- 
possible conditions at Guanajay. 

In [•"cbruary, Kpi. the CJrange County Medical .\ssociation was organ- 
ized, about which Uwc a successful effort was made to complete the organ- 
ization of associations in those counties where they had not been formed 
when the State Association split ofif from the State Society, because of the 
code fjuestion in 1882. The two sets of organizations had not been long 
maintained, however, when a comparison of their ethical standards re- 
vealed the fnrt that twenty \ears had so modified opinions as to have 
practically removed the difi'erences. The associations, however, had 
the advantage of the recognition of the American Medical Association, 
which had never been accorded the societies since their adoption of the 
new code of ethics. In order to avail themselves of membership in the 
national association many of the members of the societies joined the asso- 
riations, too. and the l).'irriers lietwecn the two organizations eventually 
became completely broken down. 

The first meeting of the amalgamated county societies was held at .\'ew- 
burgh. Januarv 25. 1006. the combined membership being seventy-nine. 

The society had three hundred and thirty-eight members and forty-eight 
honorary members during one hundred years. Of these sixty-two were 
elected to the office of nrcsident one or more tiiues, twenty-three to the 
office of secretary, and twenty-three to the office of treasurer. 

The centennial celebration of the society was held at Goshen, Monday. 
July 2. 1906. The first part of the exercises consisting of addresses and 



S66 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

an historical sketch — were conducted in the board of supervisors room in 
the County Building, which stands on the same ground once occupied by 
the old Court House, in which the society was organized, July i, 1806. 
A collation, followed by short speeches, was afterwards held in Music 
Hall, which had been decorated for the occasion with flags and bunting. 
Eighty-five members and guests were present. 

(A list of the officers and members of this society will be found in the 
chronological table.) 

, The second medical society formed in the county was the Homeopathic 
Medical Society of Orange County. 

This society was organized November 12, 1851, at the time when con- 
siderable local interest had been awakened in this system of practice and 
the controversy heretofore mentioned was going on between the new and 
old schools. The first meeting was held in Newburgh when by-laws were 
adopted and the following officers elected: 

Drs. A. Gerald Hull, president ; DeWitt C. Jayne, vice-president ; Ira 
T. Bradner, secretary and treasurer ; and W. A. M. Culbert, corresponding 
secretary. A committee was also appointed to prepare an address to the 
public in answer to that on ethics published by the Orange County Medi- 
cal Society. 

Quarterly meetings- were held during the first year, but no records of 
subsequent meetings are again found until January 11, 1870. The meet- 
ings were at first resumed semi-annually, but after three years, more in- 
terest seems to have been taken and the society met every three months. 
From time to time papers were read by members of the society bearing 
upon important topics and the society continued active for a number of 
years. After 1888 the meetings were held but twice a year, and interest 
waned until i8qi, when they were discontinued. 

(A list of the officers and members of this society will be found in the 
chronological table.) 

The Tri-Slates Medical Society. — This society was organized in .Sep- 
tember, 1871, by a number of physicians living in Port Jervis and the ad- 
jacent counties of the three States, New York, Pennsylvania and New 
Jersey, which join near there. Drs. Solomon A'an Etten, Isaac S. Hunt, 
O. A. Carroll and P.. G. McCabe represented Orange County in the forma- 
tion of the society. 

Quarterly meetings were held and fifty physicians became members 




W. L. Cuddeback. M.D. 



Mi:i)IC.\L IllSTom" OF ORANGE COL'XTY. 567 

during the first ten years. The society flourished for about eighteen 
years but was finally discontinued, probably because of a renewed interest 
in the county societies. Several Orange County physicians served as of- 
ficers of the society. 

(A list of the officers and members of this society residing in Orange 
County will be found in the chronological table.) 

The Nczi/burgh Bav Medical Society. — This society was organized Sep- 
tember TO, 1895. The first meeting was held at the Palatine iriotel, New- 
burgh. 

There were present Drs. A. E. Adams, John Deyo, A. V. Jova, C. E. 
Townsend and J. T. Howell. Dr. Adams was elected temporary chainnan 
and Dr. Townsend, secretary. Committees were appointed to secure ad- 
ditional members and draft a constitution and by-laws, after which the 
meeting adjourned until October 8th next. At that meeting there were 
present, besides the above mentioned, Drs. E. H. Borst, W. L. Carr, E. F. 
iirooks, W. S. Gleason, R. V K. ]\Ionfort, G. Garlzman and 'SI. C. Stone. 

The society was named and by-laws adopted. The object of the society- 
was declared to be the banding together of congenial physicians residing 
in Newburgh and vicinity for the purpose of study and discussion of med- 
ical and surgical topics and scientific subjects relative thereto, and the 
promotion of social intercourse among its members. 

The society was incorporated November 8, 1897, and at that time had 
twenty-nine members. Since then interest in the society has been fully 
maintained, as is evidenced by the unusual record of individual work and 
attendance on the part of the members. The present membership numbers 
fortv-two. of whom twenty-S'x arc residents of this county. The meet- 
ings are held l)i-nionthly and ;«re usuallv at Newburgh. 

(A list of the officers and members of this society will be tound in the 
chronological table. J 

The Orange County Medical .-}ssociatio)i was organized February 12, 
K)or. in Middletown, jjy Drs. .\t. C. Connor, W. E. Douglas, A. W. 
Preston. C. I. Redfield. William Evans, E .A. Nugent, L. G. Distlar and 
I". D. Myers. The following officers were elected: Drs. M. C. Connor, 
president ; F. W. Dennis, vice-president ; Charles I. Redfield. secretary 
and treasurer. A committee on by-laws was appointed and the meeting 
adjourned until March 12. 1901, to perfect the organization. At th.e ad- 
journed meeting the appointment of committees was completed and the 



568 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

membership found to be sixteen, including those ah'eady belonging to the 
New York State Association. The additional members not mentioned 
above were: Drs. E. F. Brooks, J. 15. Hulett, W. 1. Purdy, R. A. Taylor, 
C. E. Townsend, H. E. Wise, and E. D. Woodhull. Meetings were held 
monthly in the different larger places of the county and much interest 
was maintained by securing the uniform presence of some recognized 
authority on a special subject for each meeting. 

On December 9, 1905. the New York State Medical Association and 
Medical Society were amalgamated and the formal union of the corre- 
sponding county organizations took place, as heretofore stated, at New- 
burgh, January 25, 1906. The association at that time had thirty-seven 
members, a number of whom belonged also to the county society. 

(A list of the ofhcers and members of this associatioii will be found in 
the ciironological table.) 

Homeopathic Medical Society of Dutchess, Orange and Ulster Counties. 
—The above-named society was formed in response tO' a suggestion of the 
Dutchess County Homeopathic Society. The first meeting was held in 
Poughkeepsie, but the socict}- was not regularly organized until a meeting 
held at Newburgh June 24, 1002. Since that time the members have met 
regularly at Newburgh in the months of May and October each year, and 
much interest has been manifested. The present number of members is 
twenty-four, eighteen of whom reside in Orange County. Dr. William 
E. Reed, of Washingtonville, is now president, and Dr. F. A. Jacobson, 
of Newburgh, secretary and treasurer of the society. 

(A list of the officers and members of this society residing in Orange 
County will be found in the chronological table.) 

MIDDLETOWN STATE HOSPITAL. 

During the past thirty-seven years several hospi-a'.s have been built and 
conducted in- the different larger places of the county. First among these 
was the Middletown State Hospital (homeopathic) for the care and 
treatment of the insane, wdiich was incorporated in 1869. Funds were 
collected by Dr. George F. Foote. and a farm purchased near Middle- 
town as a site for the present hospital. About seventy-five thousand dol- 
lars was raised by private subscription, a part of which was used in hos- 
pital construction. The following year, 1870, the first appropriation was 



.MKDlLAL lUSiURV OF ORANGE COUNTY. .5G9 

made by the State and the main builcUng was opened for the reception of 
patients in the spring of 1874, witli Dr. h'oote as sui)erintendent. After a 
brief service Dr. Foote resigned an^l L^r. Henry R. Stiles was appointed 
superintentient, wliicli position he held until 1877, when he resigned, and 
Dr. Selden II. Talcott was apjjoinlcd ti> fill the vacancy. Dr. Talcott 
served for twenty-tive \ears until his death, June 15, 1902. and under his 
mar.agen:ent the institution develo])ed nearly to its present projxxtions. 
The present sujjerintendent. Dr. Maurice L. Ashley, was appointed his 
successor. 

The farm and grounds comprise nearly three hundred acres, on v.hich 
there are thirty buildings, the value of the real and personal property 
being over Si. 500,000. The present annual expenses for all jjurposes are 
about $245,000. Since the opening of the institution the reports show 
seven thoi.sand patients received and treated. Of this number two thou- 
sand six hundred have been discharged recovered, and nine hundred im- 
proved. The number of patients under treatment at present is one thou- 
sand three hundred. lUiildings planned and under construction will in- 
crease the accommodations to a capacit\ of one thousand eight hundred 
and fifty patients an.d four hundred and fifty employees. 

The medical staff consists of nine members: Maurice C. Ashlev, M.D., 
medical superintendent; Robert C. Woodman, M.D., lirst assistant pliysi- 
cian ; George F. I'rewster, AI.l).. second assistant physician; Roy E. 
Mitchell, M.D., third assistant physician; .\rthur S. Moore, M.D., junior 
assistant physician.; Clara Barrus, M.D., woman assistant physician, and 
their iniernes. 

ST. LUKI"'s HOSl'ITAL, XEWI'.LRGH. 

This in>'Litution was fiumded as a "Ibime for the aged, the indigent, 
and the iiifirm and a Hospital for the sick and disabled. The iKJspital 
work for a number af years was of secondary importance, but during the 
latter half of its existence that has been the principal work of the institu- 
tion, until now both the name and the work of the Home are discontinued. 

The society was organizetl July 21. 1874. by representative members of 
(he Protestant l'4)iscoi)al [jarishes of Newburgh anil New Windsor, which 
influence has until recently predominated in the mantgement, although 
the work has been wholly imsectarian in character. A constitution was 
adopted November 4. 1874. -Av.d the instittition became incorporated. Jan- 



570 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

uary 5, 1876. The corporation originally leased different places until the 
present reservoir site on Carpenter avenue was purchased. On March 23, 
1886, the property on Liberty street was secured, where various buildings 
were erected and clianges made from time to time. Recently, March 29, 
1907, the seminary building and large grounds on Dubois street have 
been secured, where the fine elevation and surroundings will better accom- 
modate the increasing needs of tlie hospital. 

Diiring the past fiscal year there were treated seven hundred and sev- 
enty-four patients. There are forty-eight beds. A training school for 
nurses was established in 1893, which now numbers twenty. 

The society is a membership corporation and by a change in the consti- 
tution adopted November 22, 1906, has become non-sectarian in its man« 
agement. It derives its income from the charges paid by patients, from 
voluntary contributions and from the interest received from an endow- 
ment fund of $47,415.21. Among the pioneer workers was Dr. Smith 
Ely, whose interest and zeal had much to do with establishing the hospital. 

The present staff consists of four consulting and eleven attending 
members : 

Consulting Stafi'. — F-obert Abbe, M.D., surgeon ; Stephen D. Harrison, 
M.D., physician ; Henry D. Nicoll, M.D., gynecologist ; Henry L. Winter, 
M.D., neurologist. 

Attending .Staff". — John T Howell, M.D.. and Charles E. Townsend, 
M.D., surgeons ; William J. Carr, M.D., and E. C. Thompson, M.D., as- 
sistant surgeons ; Andrew V. Jova, M.D., and W. Stanton Gleason. M.D., 
physicians; John Deyo, AI.D., and William H. Snyder, M.D., assistant 
physicians; Alpheus E. Adams, M.D., ophthalmologist and otologist; 
Eouis R. Pierce, M.D., obstetrician ; A. Judson Benedict, M.D., rhinolo- 
gist and laryngologist. 

THE PORT JEBVIS IIOSriTAL. 

This hospital was established January i, 1887, by Dr. J. H. Hunt as 
a memorial to his father, Dr. J. S. Hunt. It accommodated twenty 
patients and was located on the corner of Ball and Sussex streets. 

On March 8, 1S92, the hospital was purchased by Drs. W. L. Cudde- 
back and H. B. Swartout, who enlarged and remodeled it, providing 
additional private rooms, the use of which was extended tO' outside phy- 



.MK1)1CAL IIIST()K^■ Ol- OK.WCI-: COUXTV. 571 

cians. The hospital was aj^ain sold 011 Scpteiiibyr i, 1895, ^^'^^ i)urchascrs 
beings several physicians living in Port jervis and vicinity, who formed 
a corporation for that purpose. The ho^pital, besides doing general work, 
has always especially provided for ih.e care of thi- injured emi)loyees of 
the Frie Railroad Company. 

A training scliool for nurses was established in iS(j(). whicli now num- 
bers five nurses. Tiie number of bed in tlie present hos])ital is twenty-five. 
The number of patients treated during the fiscal year ending 1907 was 
one hundred and thirty-four. The ]:)resent attending staff consists of 
I^rs. C'uddeback and Swartout. 

TIlk.\L.L HOSPITAL^ MIDDLF.TOWN. 

This institution was organized largely througli the efforts of Dr. Julia 
E. Bradner and eight ether ladies representing different churches, who 
raised a fund of over five thousand dollars toward the project. Mrs. S. 
Maretta Tiirall subsequently came to their assistance and donated not only 
the grounds but tlie building, thus placing the hospital upon a firm basis 
in the early days of its h.istory. The fund already collected was used for 
furnishing and equipment. 

The hosjMtal was opened May 10, 1892. .\ training school for nurses 
was established in 1894. which now numbers ten. The number of beds 
in the hospital, including those in private rooms, is thirty-five. The 
number of patients treated during the fiscal year ending 1907 was four 
hundred and fifty-five. The present staff has six consulting and nine at- 
tending members : 

(Consulting Staff'.- — Dr. '.\1. C. Ashley, neurologist; Dr. l">ancis Walk, 
Dr. |. 1. L.ent, opthalmologists ; Dr. \\'. K. Douglas, Dr. E. L. l*"ancher. 
Dr. L. \V. Dennis, physicians. 

Visiting Staff.— Dr.' T. D. Mills, Dr. J. l'.. Iluleti, Dr. W. 1.. Tunly, 
surgeons; Dr. Julia E. Bradner. Dr. J. L. Hammer. Dr. D. B. Ilarden- 
burgh. Dr. M. A. Stivers, Dr. C. I. Redfield. Dr. E. M. Schultz. physi- 
cians. 

Tin-: DR. M.\C nox.\LD HOl'SI-:. 

The Dr. MacDonald House at Central \'alley, formerly known as 
"Falkirk," was founded by Dr. James I-'rancis Ferguson in 1889. 



572 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

This institution was designed and built for the special care of patients 
suffering from nervous diseases. Originally it accommodated but fifteen 
patients, but it was enlarged by the construct'on of another large cottage 
called the "Stanleigh," and now can care for twice that number. Its 
beautiful location and surroundings contribute to make it an ideal home 
for such patients. 

Following the death of Dr. Ferguson, in 1904. the sanitarium was con- 
ducted for two years by Dr. Henry A. Ferguson and William E. Ferguson, 
when it was purchased by its present proprietor and physician in charge, 
Dr. Carlos F. AlacDonald, who has associated with him Dr. Clarence J. 
Slocum as a resident physician. 

INTERPINE.S. 

This sanitarium is located at Goshen and was established in June, 
iScjO, by Dr. F. W. Seward. It then had fourteen beds for patients, but 
in 1897 the capacity of the institution was increased by commodious addi- 
tions, to fifty-six patients. The institution affords all the advantages of 
a modern home for invalids especially for the treatment of disorders of 
the nervous system. 

It is conducted by Dr. Seward and his son, Dr. F. W Seward, Jr., 
who has been associated with his father for the past eight years. 



The limitations of space allotted this article not allowing the presenta- 
tion of biographies, I have collected and arranged the following data 
relating to the physicians who have settled in Orange County- and prac- 
ticed there since 1728. 

The dates include the period of practice in this county, terminating 
either by removal or death. The residences designated generally refer 
to villages or larger places, but sometimes only the townships are known. 
The last column contains the names of the medical college or society 
granting the diploma or license, memberships and offices in county medi- 
cal societies and positions or connections with local hospitals, etc. In all 
cases every endeavor has been made to obtain the full data, and careful 
verification made of all information received. In a number of cases it 
has been impossible to determine the dates, and even the residences of 
some of the practitioners could not be ascertained. In other cases the 



^FKOICAL IIIST()RV OF Ok.\X(,l-: CULM \'. S75 

source of their diploma or licen>e cannoi be found in any of the records. 
Si)ecial mention has been made in a comparatively few instances where 
physicians are known to have held distinguished positions or have been 
otherwise honored, but omissions should not be construed to indicate 
inferiority of the standing of those worthy physicians who labored on in 
dignified silence, although conscious of many a trinmpli in tlio art of 
life saving. 

T am greatly indebted to those physicians and other interoted frien;is 
who have furnished information and data and especially to Dr. L. R. 
Pierce who assisted in the compilation of this table. 

A CHROXOLOGIC.VL LIST OF PHYSICIAXS \\-H0 HAVE 
PRACTICED IX ORAXGE COUXTY.* 

* For explanation of abbreviations, see last page. 



Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1728 — p. 1758. . .Cadwallader Colden..Coldenliam ....Univ. of Edinburgh, 1708; Med- 
ical Author, Historian, Lieut. 
Colonial Governor. Died 1776. 
— d. 1758. .Alexander Clinton. .. Montgomery ..Studied medicine in X. Y. City. 

Died of smallpo.x at Shawan- 
gunk. 

— d. 1768.. John Barnes Cornwall 

— d. 1791 . .Charles Clinton .Montgomery ..Studied medicine in X. Y. City. 

Served in British Xavy as Sur- 
geon's Male. 

P. 1749 — d. l763Evans Jones Xcw WindsorOne of the proprietors of the 

and Little X^ew Windsor township plot. 
Britain Lived in the "Brewster house." 

P. 1754 William Tunis Florida 

1760 — d. 1837. . Eleazcr Gedney Gcdneytown, Inc. O. C. M. S. and Pres., '28. 

Xewburgh . . Resided on present site Quas- 
saick Bank, X'ewburgh. 

P. 1764 DePee Xew Windsor. 

P. 1768 Thos. Clark Little Britain.. 

P. 1769 John Gale Goshen 

P. 1769— d. i779Bcnj. Tusten Goshen Surrogate, 1778. Introduced prac- 
tice of inoculation with small- 
pox in this vicinity. Lieut. -Col. 

I Goslicn Reg., 1777. Killed in 

"^^'^^■■^^BKl Hattle of Minisink. 

P. 1769 John Pierson Goshen 

P. 1769 Elisha Dubois Warwick Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1769 — d. i782T)aniel Rosencrans ..Minisink 

P. 1769— d. i784Henry White Minisink 



574 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Years of 
Practice. 



Name. 



Medical College or Society 
Granting Diploma ; Memberships 
Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



P. 1769. 



Chandler 



Blooming 
Grove .... 

P. 1769 Thos. Wickham Goshen 

P. 1769 Isaac Brown Newburgh .. 

P. 1769 Isaac Tobias Cornwall ... 

P. 1770 John Hill Montgomery 

P. 1770 Jacob Everett Port Jervis . 

P. 1770 Smith Montgomery 

P. 1776 — d. 1821 Jonathan Bailey New Windsor 

P. 1776 — d. 1813 Jonathan Swezy Goshen 



Inc. O. C. M. S. 



Capt. Co. Florida Soldiers, 1775. 



Served in War of Revolution. 
Inc. O. C. M. S. Pres., '06-' 10. 
Born 1752. 

P. 1776 William Gourley New Windsor. Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1776 Elias Winfield Newburgh 

P. 1776 Daniel Wood Warwick, New 

/ Windsor 

P. 1776 — d. i797Nathaniel Elmer Florida ... 

P. 1776 — d. 1823 Moses Higby Newburgh andContemporary Dr. Charles Clin- 

New Windsor ton. Administered emetic to 
British spy and thereby recov- 
ered silver bullet containing im- 
;. portant despatch. 

P. 1776 Joseph Young Newburgh ....With Revolutionary Army. 

P. 1776 Thomas Young Newburgh With Revolutionary Army. 

P. 1776 Robt. jNIorrison Newburgh 

P. 1776 Hugh Morrison Newburgh 

P. 1776 James Stukney Newburgh 

P. 1780-1810. . .William Elliott Montgomery 

P. 1783 John Smedes Montgom- 

ery (?) ..., 



P. 1784 — d. i799Phineas Hedges Newburgh 

P. 1786 — d. 1835 David Fowder, Jr. .. .Newburgh 



P. 1786 Wm. Gale Goshen 

P. 1786 Chas. Tusten Montgomery 

P. 1788 — d. i83oEusebius Austin . . . .TJnionville . 

P. 1788-1808 .. . Jos. Whelan Crawford and 

Montgomery 
1795 — d. 1849. . Samuel S. Seward . . . Florida 



Contemporary Dr. Chas. Clinton. 
Probably practiced in nearby 
locality. 

Surgeon 2d Reg. Loyalists, 1776. 
Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres.. 'xS- 



Hon. Mem. O. C. M. S. 



Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 
, Mem. Assembly, '04 ; County 
Judge, 'i?. Inc. O. C. M. S. 
; and ist Vice-Pres. Est. S. S. 

Seward Institute at Florida, '46. 
1878— d. 1898.. Matthew C. Lyon.... New Windsor. 

P. 1798 Samuel Gale Goshen 

P. 1798 Benjamin S. Hoyt...New Windsor.. Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1798— d. 1845 Increase Crosby Crawford Lie. M. S. S. C. Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1799— d. i844Benj. Newkirk Mt. Hope Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1799 — d. i826Tsrael Sayre 

1802— d. 1859.. Jacob Hornbeck Port Jervis ...Lie. M. S. S. N. Y. 



:\IEDICAL IllSroKV ()\- ORAXGE COL'XTV. 



o/D 



Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Pul)lic Service, etc. 

1806 — d. 1867.. Jacob Van Dusen ...Port Jervis ...Univ. N. Y. 

P. 1806 l-:iijah Randall Monroe (?)... Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806— d. iSi6\Villiam Elmer Coshcn Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806 — d. i8ioXatlianicl I'.Inicr, Jr. .Denton Inc. O. C. M. S. and ist Sec'y. 

P. 1806 Charles Fowler Montgomery ..Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806 — d. 1826 David R. Arnell Scotchtown and 

Goshen Inc. O. C. M. S. and Pres., '10, '11, 

'J2, '13, '19, '21, '22, '23. Or- 
ganized movement which recov- 
ered bones of heroes of Mini- 
sink. 

P. 1806— r. i846Samucl Warner Inc. O. C. :\I. S. 

P. 1806— r. iSi-W'm. McCoppin Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806— r \aron M. Smith Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806— d. 1824 Klihu Hedges Cornwall Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806— r Ethan Watson Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806 — r Cornelius Roosa •; Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806 — d. i823lames Bradner Goshen Inc. O. C. M. S. Born 1762. 

P. 1806 hlenrv I. Hornbeck. .Port Jervis (?) Inc. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1806 Elijah Welch Xewburgh ( ?).Inc. O. C. IM. S. 

P. 1806 \nthony Davis Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. Mem. and Pres. 

id., 'o7-'o8-'o9. 

P. 1806 Joseph Houston lulenville Lie. O. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1806 Jonathan Hedges ...Little Britain. . Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1807 Charles Frazer. Jr. . . Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1807 Gabriel X. Phillips. . .Phillipsburgh ..Lie. O. C. M. S. Mem. and Pres. 

id., '14; also Hon. Mem. 

P. 1807 Xathaniel Gillespie ..Goshen (?)... Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1807— d. 1815 David Gallatian Precinct o f Lie. N. Y. C. M. S., 1789. One 

Hanover, near of first Supervisors. Mem. As- 

Walden sembly, 1785. Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1807— d. 1843 Baltus VanKleeck ...Xewburgh ....Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres., '20. 

P. 1807— r. i846Heman Allen Lie. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1807 Svlvester Austin 

P. 1808— d. i836Silas Loomis Otisville Mem. O. C. M. S. 

r8o8 Joseph R. Andrews Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1808 Andrew J. Miller Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1808 — d. 1849. .Chichester Brown ...Xewburgh Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1809 — d. 1814- -Jesse Arnell Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

P. i8og — d. i837Daniel Corwin Hopewell, Mid- 

dletown and 

Minisink Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1809 — r. 1819. . . I-rancis Fowler Lie. O. C. M. S. ; Mem. id., and 

Pres.. '18. 

1809 Walter Watson Lie. O. G. M. S. 

1809 Mbert Schoonmaker Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1810 — d. 1846.. William Townsend ..Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1810 — d. 1844.. David Hanford Middletown ...Yale, '07. Mem. O. C. M. S. 

One of the founders Wallkill 

Academy. 



576 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society- 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 
Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1810— r Chas. Parks Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1810— d. 1848.. Robt. Shaw Mt. Hope Uc. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1810 William Hedges Newburgh (?).Lic. O. C. M. S. 

1810 James Fowler Lie. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1810 Jno. Gasherie Mem. O. C. M. S. 

p. 181 1 Jno. T. Jansen Minisink Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres., '20, 

'29. 

1812— d. 1858.. Joshua Hornbeck . . . Scotchtown ...Lie. O. C. M. S. Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '2-/, 43, '44, 
'45, '47, '48. 

p. 1813 Peter A. Millspaugh. Montgomery ..Lie. M. S. C. N. Y. Mem. O. C. 

i\L S. and Pres., '18, '24, '26. 

1814— d. 1858.. Jas. M. Gardner Newburgh ....Lie. N. Y. S. M. S. Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '34, 'yj, '40, 
'41. 

1814 Thos. G. Evans Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1814— d. 1866., Thos. McKissock ...Newburgh Lie. O. C M. S. ; admitted to the 

Bar, 1817; Supreme Court 
Judge, 47, and Rep. in Con- 
gress, '49. 

1814 — r Jno. S. Swezy Minisink Lie. O. C. \i. S. and Mem. id. 

1814 Jas. Heron Warwick Lie. O. C. M. S., Mem. id., and 

Pres., 'Z2>, '36, '39- 

1814— d. 1838.. Jas. P. Youngs Edenville Lie. M. S. S. N. Y. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1814 Marcus Ostrander ...Port Jervis (?)Mem. O. C. M. S. 

181 5— d. 1824.. Thomas Chattle Port Jervis ...Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1815 Jesse Bodle Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1815— r. 1831... Peter P. Galatian Walden N. Y. Hosp., '13, '14, '15. Lie. O. 

C. M. S. and Mem. id. Born 

1794; died 1862. 

1815 — d. 1843.. Robt. C. Hunter Hamptonburgh Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1815— r Jacob Ostrum, Jr Lie. M. S. D. C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1816 George Eager M o n t g o m- ' 

ery and New- 
burgh Lie. O. C. M. S., Mem. id., and 

Pres., '2,2.. 

P. 1816 Joseph Hallock Ridgebury (?).Mem. O. C. M. S. 

p. 1816 Wm. H. Newkirk Union ville Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

p 1816— r. i83'2lsrael Green Monroe (?)... Lie. M. S. U. C. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
p 1816— r Jno. W. Montrose.... Crawford Lie. M. S. S. N. J.; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1817 James Ray Lie. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1817— r. i847Hiram K. Chapman.. Newburgh Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1818— d. 1824.. Charles Miller Newburgh Yale; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1818 — d. 1844.. William Horton, Jr. .Goshen Lie. O. C. M, S., Mem. id., and 

Pres., '2)Z- 
1818 — d. 1834. .Egbert Jansen Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S., Mem. id., and 

Pres., '29. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 577 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



1818— d. 1851.. Nathaniel P. Church. Greenville ....Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1818— d. 1872.. Jno. J. Linderman. ..Port Jervis ...Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1819 — r Peter McGivney 

1819— d. 1847.. John \V. Drury New Windsor.. V. AL C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

Served in War i8i2-'i4. 

1819 — r Stoplicn Hasbrouck. .W a 1 d e n or 

Newburgh . . Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1819— d. 1868.. Chas. Winfield Crawford Lie. O. C. M. S., Mem. id., and 

Pres., '36, '37, '42, '46; Rep. in 
Congress, '60-67. 

1819 — d. 1840.. Geo. Hedges Newburgh Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1821— d. 1875.. John S. Crane Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id.; 

Surgeon's Mate, 19th Brigade 
N. Y. S., '25; County Clerk, '26. 

1821 Theodore Wells Goshen (?) ...Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1821 Jonathan Sears M on t g o m - 

ery (?) Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1821— r Townsend Seely ....Goshen P. S. N. Y., '15; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1821 — d. 1870.. George Hunter Scarsville Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1822— d. 1848.. Robert Shaw Mt. Hope Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1822— r Francis Beattie Mem. O. C. M. S 

1822 John ]\L Gough Cornwall Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres. id., 

'38. 

1822— r Thos. Royce Minisink Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1823— d. l849lsaac Garrison Newburgh V. M. C, '23; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1823— d. 1835 Jos. Halstead Minisink Lie. O. C. 1\L S. and Mem. id. 

Born 1798. 
P. 1824 — d. i874Charles Harden- 

burgh Pt. Jervis P. & S. N. Y., Lie. O. C. M. S. 

and Mem. id. 

p 18^4— r Isaac D. Dodd Goshen Lie. M. S. S. N. J.; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

P. 1824 John J. Wheeler Warwick (?)..P. & S. N. Y'. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1825— d. l86l..Merritt H. Cash Ridgcbury ....N. Y. M. C, '25; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '50, '51, 52; 
Mem. Assembly. Erected "Mini- 
, sink Monument." at Goshen. 

P. 1825 .\dna Hayden Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1825 .Andrew King W a s Ii i n g - 

tonville a n d 

Newburgh . . Lie. O. C. Isl. S. and Mem. id. 

1825 Harris Edmonston ..Newburgh Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1825 — r Gabriel Corwin Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1825— r Wynans Rush Pine Bush (?).Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1825 Samuel Harlow Monroe Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1825 1 JeWitt Strong Washing- 

tonville Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1825 — d. 1866 . . Marcus Sears M o n t gom- 

e r y and 

Craigville ...Univ. N. Y. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 



578 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1825 — r Horace G. Bradner Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1825 DeWitt C. Edmon- 

ston Newburgh 

1826-1828 Dickerson . . . Pt. Jervis 

1826— d. 1886. .G. M. Millspaugh....Walden C. M. C, '20; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1826 James C. Fitch Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1826 Jacob P. Stickle Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1826— r. 1858... Jno. P. Tarbell Newburgh ....Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1826 Asa R. Howell Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1827— d. 1869.. Jno. B. McMunn M i d d 1 e - 

town and 

Port Jervis.. Mem. O. C. M. S. Originator of 
"McMunn's Elixir of Opium." 

1827 Lewis Dunning Goshen Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

P. 1827 Jas. B. McGill Lie. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1827 David H. Brewster. .New Windsor. Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id.; 

Mem. O. C. H. M. S. 
1829— d. 1838.. Adam B. Gedney. .. .Newburgh ....Lie. M. S. H. C. 

1829 — d. 1852.. Thos. S. Edmonston. Chester Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

P. 1829 Jno. P. Kennedy Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1829 Chas. Arnell Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1829 J. W. Cooper Blooming 

Grove Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1829 — r Jno. N. Pruyn Blooming 

Grove P. & S. N. Y., '28; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1830 — d. 1888.. John W. Fenton Newburgh and Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id.; 

Middlehope . Health Officer, City Newburgh, 
) '70, '71. 

1830 — r A. Clinton Cornwall 

P. 1830 Jas. Van Kuren Little Britain. .Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1830 Hart Port Jervis ...Died in service U. S. Army. 

1830— d. 1890.. Bartow Wright Hamptonburgh.P. & S. W. D. N. Y., '30; Mem. 

O. C. M. S.; Pres., '55, and 
Hon. Mem. 

P. 1830 ■ Ball Port Jervis . . . 

1830 — d. 1892.. Jno. Conkling Port Jervis ...P. & S. 

1831 — d. 1839. .Jerome Wells Blooming 

Grove Lie. O. C M. S. and Mem. id. 

Born 1810. 

1831 — d. 1893.. Jno. L. Foster Newburgh Rutgers, '30; Lie. O. C. M. S. 

(1836) Ret. to farm. 

1831— r Phillin S. Timlow. ...Amity Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1831 Tas. C. Horton Craigville Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

P. 1831— d. 185-William Morrison ...Cornwall P. & S. W. D. N. Y. : Mem. O. C. 

M. S. ■ 

1832 Abel Lybolt Port Jervis (?)Lic. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1832 Leander W. Lynn 

P. 1833 H. P. Benham Newburgh 

P. 1833 H. W. Hornbeck Scotehtown ...Mem. O. C. M. S. 




Dr. P. M. Barclay. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 579 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1833— ret. 1853- E. B. Carpenter Monroe P. & S. N. Y., '33; Mem. O. C 

M. S. ; Member Assembly, 1853. 

P. 1833 Harvey Haliock ....Minisink Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1834— d. i864..1)eWitt C. Haliock.. .Greenville ....V. M. C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 
1834— d. 1899.. Harvey Everett Middletown ...V. M. C, '34; Mem. O. C. M. S., 

and Hon. Mem. id. 

P. 1834 R. Austin Webb Ridgebury ....M. M. C. 

P. 1834 Edward H. S. Hol- 

den 

P. 1834— d. i890.\very Cook Otisville Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pros. id.. 

'S^ and '59. 

P. 1834 \Vm. Murphv 

P. 1834— r. 1841 Samuel B. Barlow. . .Florida Yale, '22: Mem. O. C. M. 5.; 

Prof. Materia Medica N. H. M. 

Col., '63. 
P. 1834 Samuel D. Holly. .. .Warwick Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres. id., 

•56. 

P. 1834 George Brown Xewburgh ....Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres. id., 

57- 
183^ — d. 1875. . Hushrod MilIspaugh...uontgomery ..Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1835 William Everett ....Goshen (?).... Lie. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1835— d. 1S90 Daniel Wells Newburgh . . . . P. & S. N. Y., '35. 

1835 Horace W. Johnson Lie. O. C. M. S. 

1836— d. i866..Elias Peck Newburgh ....P. & S. N. Y., '35; Mem. O. C. 

! M. S. 

1836 — d. 1886. . Samuel M. Craw^ford.Craw ford and 

Montgomery. Lie. M. S. S. N. Y., '36; Mem. O. 

C. M. S. 
P. 1836 — d. i859Chas. G. Fowler Town of Mont- 
gomery Mem. O. C. ^L S. Born 1779. 

P. 1836 Grant M. Roe Monroe Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1836— d. 1855 Harvey Horton Minisink P. & S. X. Y., '29; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

P. 1836 Joseph R. Andrews. .Monroe Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1836 .\. M. Brewster Blooming 

Grove Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1836 Daniel G. Durkee. .. .Crawford Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1837— d. 1891. ..\lpheus Goodman ...Salisbury Mills.C. M. C, '37; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '60, '61. 
P. 1837 John W. Rafferts....Westtown Lie. M. S. S. N. Y.; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
P. 1838— d. i84i.\dam W. Mills- Scotchtown and 

paugh Middletown.. M. I. F. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. First 

Dentist in Middletown. Born 

1812. 
P. 1818 .Abraham L. Rey- 
nolds Warwick Mem. O. C. M. S. 

iSvS— d. i88r.. Nathaniel Devo Newburgh ....J. M. C : Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1839— (1- 1890.. Henry C. Seely .\mily Lie. M. S. S. N. Y.. '^S. and O. C. 

M. S. : Mem. and Prrs. id., '67. 



58o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society- 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 
Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies- 
Public Service, etc. 



P. 1839— d. 1898D. C. Jayne Florida Yale, '39; Mem. O. C. M. S.; 

Mem. O. C. H. M. S. and Pres. 

id., '54. 

P. 1839— d. 1865 Chas. B. Howell New Windsor 

and Wash- 

ingtonville Lie. O. C. M. S. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1839 John S. Crawford... 

P. 1839 — r. 1857 Jonathan D. Bevier.. Sugar Loaf and 

Warwick .J. M. C. ; Lie. O. C. M. S. ; Mem. 

O. C. M. S. Served in Civil 

War last two yrs. 
P. 1840 Alfred H. Lee Lie. O. C. M. S. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
P. 1840— r. l845Gilbert C. Monell Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '39; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Pres. id., 'S3, '54. 

P. 1840 William H. Johnson Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1840— d. 1878.. David C. Winfield. . .Middletown ...A. M. C, '40; Mem. O. C. M. S. 
^ and Pres. id., '65, "66; County 

Clerk, '59-'65. 

1840 — d. 1842 . . Charles F. Gray 

P. 1841 D. Bethune Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1841 D. B. McCartee Newburgh Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1841—r. 1842 William A. Westcott. Goshen A. M. C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. ; 

afterwards graduated from 

Princeton Theological Seminary 

and preached at Florida and S. 

Centerville. D. 1876. 

1841— d. 1870. . M. S. Hayne Unionville . . . . G. M. C. : Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1841— d. 1890.. Alex. Barclay Newburgh ....Lie. M. S. S. N. Y. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

P. 1841 Jesse T. Hotchkiss... Cornwall Univ. Pa.; Mem. O. C. H. M. S. 

1841— d. 1889.. Jos. D- Friend Middletown ...Lie. Bot. M. S., 42, and afterward 

grad. ]Met. M. C. (Ec). Editor 

local papers ; also of Med. Jour. 

of Reform; Prof. Obstetrics; 

Met. M. C, 52-'4; Assembly- 
man, '/-. 
1842— d. 1892.. Jno. C. Boyd Monroe T. ]M. C. '41: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '62, '72, '7^, '78. 
1842— d. 1886.. J. D. Johnson Middletown ...St. T. M. C. & H. Lon. ; Mem. 

O. C. M. S. ; N. Y. M. C, '55. 
P. 1842— d. i849Thos. W. Newman.. .Goshen P. & S. N. Y., '41; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Sec'y, '42-'48. Born 

1821. 

1842— r Benj. Dunning Goshen (?) ...P. & S. N. Y., '41; Mem. O. C. 

. M. S. 
1843— d. 1867.. Peter E. Conklin. .. .Cornwall P. & S. W. D. N. Y., '38; Mem. 

O. C M. S. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 581 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1843 — d. i89i..TIios. Millspaugh ..AValden and 

Montgomery. A. M. C, '43; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1843 — d. 1894.. Tra S. Bradner Scotchtown and 

Middletown.. Univ. X. Y., '43; j\Iem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Mem. O. C. H. M. S. ; Surg. 

56th Reg., '65. 

P. 1843— d. 1874 S. W. Esray Monroe Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1843 — r Jas. A. Young Scotchtown ...Lie. O. C. M. S. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
P. 1843— r. 1856G. C. Blackman Newburgh ....P. & S. N. Y., '41; Mem. O. C 

M. S.; Surg. U. S. V., '61 and 

'62. Medical Author and Editor 

of note. Later Professor of 

Surgery, Cincinnati Medical 

Col. 

P. 1843 Ashel Houghton St. Andrew's 

and Co rn - 

wall Mem. O. C. U. S. ; Mem. O. C. H. 

^L S. 

1844— d. 1880.. S. C. Smith Walden and 

Montgomery. Lie. M. S. C. X. Y., '39; Mem. O. 

C. M. S. 

1844 — d. 1896.. Lewis Y. Wiggins. . .Newburgh Univ. N. Y., '44. 

P. 1844 Philander Mix Blooming 

Grove Mem. O. C. ^L S. 

P. 1844 — d. i900Lcwis Armstrong ...Minisink, Mid- 
dletown Mem. O. C. M. S. Retired and 

engaged in Iiardware business 

many years. Born 1819. 
1845 — d. 1876.. \Vm. P. Townsend... Goshen Harvard, '45: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Sec, Treas. and Pres. id., 

'68; Mem. T. S. M. S. 
1845 — r. 1890.. .Saml. P. Church Xcwburgh P. & S. N. Y., '45; Ex-Visiting 

Phys. St. Luke's Hospl., Newbg. 

P. 1845 Jno. Patterson Mem. O. C. ^L S. 

P. 1845 Henry L. W. Burritt Yale; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1845 — r. i850.\braham Crowell... .East Coldcn- 

ham A. M. C, .43; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

Died in N. Y. C, '59- 
1845 — d- 1899.. Sol. G. Carpenter Chester Univ. N. Y., .45; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '77. 

1846 — d. 1882.. \Vm. Dorrance Middletown ...Univ. N. Y., '45. 

1846— d. 1888.. \Vm. A. M. Culbert.. Newburgh ....Univ. N. Y., '46: Mem. O. C. H. 

M. S. and ist Sec'y of id. 

1847— d. 1870.. Thos. Cuddeback Port Jervis ...Yale. 

1847 George Eager, Jr Montgomerv ..P. & S. N. Y., '47: Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1848— d. 1863.. Chas. Drake Newburgh . . . . P. & S. ( ?) ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1849 Isaac Carev Warwick V. M. C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1848— r. 1854-. -Benj. W. Thompson. Goshen Mem. O. C. M. S. 



582 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1849— d. 1886.. Chas. M. Lawrence. .Port Jervis ...Univ. N. Y., '49; Mem. O. C. H. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '71-77. 

1850— r. 1856... A. W. Dufrene Port Jervis ... Germany. 

1850— d. 1882.. Geo. E. Putney Howells C. M. C, '50; Mem. O. C. M. S.; 

Sec. and Pres. id., '74; Mem. 

T. S. M. S. 

1850— d. 1885.. Wm. A. Loughran...Walden G. M. C, '50. 

P 1850 Isaac Reeve Goshen Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1850— d. i854Nelson McBride ....Mt. Hope Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1850— d. 1903.. W. F. C. Beattie Cornwall G. M. C, '50; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

i8c:o— r Geo. H. Fossard Port Jervis ...A. M. C, '59; Surgeon 56th Reg.. 

1864- S; Mem. T. S. M. S. and 

O. C' M. S., '75- 
1850— d. 1889.. Jas. H. Smiley Scotchtown ...A. M. C, '50; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '76; Mem. T. S. 

M. S. 
i8ci_d. i88o..Robt. Slone Middletown ...Univ. N. Y., '51; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1851-1884 David F. Robertson.. Unionville Univ. N. Y. 

1851— d. 1894. .Chas. P. Smith Chester C. M. C, '51; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '75. 

1851 — r. 1864. .. Abraham Deyo Gidney's Mills 

and N e w - 

burgh Univ. N. Y., '51. 

1851— r 1853... G. P. Reeves Goshen Univ. N. Y. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1851— r Wm. S. Halsey Chester (?)... Mem. O. C. M. S. 

p. 1851 — r M. Stevenson Newburgh Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1851— d. i896Wilmot C. Terry Otisville and 

Ridgebury ..C. M. C, '51; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1851— d. 1859A. Gerald Hull Newburgh Rutgers, '32; Mem. O. C. H. _M. 

< S. and Pres. id., '51. Editor 
several homeopathic journals 
and books. 

1852— d. 1888. .Thos. Walsh Port Jervis . . .Univ. N. Y., '48; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1852— d. 1902.. Joshua W. Ostrum.. .Goshen Lie. M. S. S. N. Y. ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Sec'y; Mem. O. C. 
H. M. S. and Pres. id., '52, '76, 
'78. 

p. 1852— d. 1866 James Low Newburgh andP. & S. N. Y. ; Lieut.-Col. 19th 

Coldenham .. Reg. 

1852— d. 1866.. Thomas Heaton ....Cornwall P. & S. N. Y., '52. 

1852 A. H. Thompson.... Walden Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1853— r. i860... Geo. S. Little Walden Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1854— d. 1896.. Wm. H. Woodruff... Pine Bush ....A. M. C, '54; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

p 1854 — r L. F. Pelt on Florida and 

Warwick ....Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1855 — d. 1901.. Peter M. Barclay Newburgh Univ. N. Y., '41. 

1855— r. 1856... J. C. Garland Port Jervis ...T. M. C, Dublin. 

1855-1863 Benj. Carpenter Port Jervis ...Univ. Mich. 



MEDICAI. IflSTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 583 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Xamc. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



'855— d- 1894.. Solomon VanEtten.. .Port Jervis ...A. M. C, '55; Surgeon 56th Reg.; 

Mem. O. C. M. S. and Pres., 

'69; Mem. T. S. M. S. and 

Pres., '72. 
1855 — d. 1888. .Theodore H. Cooper. Warwick P. & S. N. Y., '55; Ass. Surgeon 

156th Reg.; Supervisor and .A.s- 

semblyman ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1855 Xelson Newton Mt. Hope Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 185^ Griffith Pine Bush 

1856— d. 1903.. R. V. K. Montfort....\ewburgh ....A. M. C, '56; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '71, '82 ; Ass. Surg. 

and Surgeon I24tii Reg., '65; 

Supt. Public Schools Newburgh 

25 yrs. ; Health Officer City 

Newbg., '66, '69; e.x-Vis. Phys. 
; St. Luke's Hosp. 

1856 — d. 1906. .Webb D. Cooper Unionville Univ. N. Y. 

'1856— d. 1896.. William Jones Newburgh . . . . K. M. C X. Y., '69. 

1856 — r. 1859.. . Harvey Addison 

Horton Middletovvn ...\. M. C, '56. 

1856 — u. ie70..Elisha Hawkins Newburgh .... 

1857— P- 1907- J- H. Thompson Goshen P. & S. N. Y., '57; Mem. O. C. 

' M. S. and Pres. id., '86; Mem. 

T. S. M. S. and Pres. id., '79; 

Surg. 124th Reg., '62-'65. 
1857— p. 1907.. Wm. B. Bradner Warwick P. & S. N. Y., '57; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '81 ; Surg. 

i66th Reg. 
P. 1857 Jonathan L. Whit- 
taker Unionville P. C. M. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1858— d. 1867.. Jno. N. Taylor Middletown ...A. M. C. : Mem. O. C. M. S. and 

Pres. id.. '63-'64. 
i8s8 — r. 1864.. .Carroll Dunham Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '50; later Dean 

N. Y. H. M. C. 
P. 1858— d. 1894J0S. P. Thompson... Newburgh ....P. U. M., '58. 

1858 — r. 1861... James McClaury Newburgh 

1858— d. 1896.. Smith Ely Newburgh ....V. M. C, '50; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '89; First Surg. 

of St. Luke's Hospital. 

1859— r. 1871. ..G. H. Sears Blooming 

Grove Univ. Pa.; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1859— r Theo. Martine Warwick N. Y. M. C. 

1859— P- 1907- -Henry Hardcnburgh.Port Jervis . . . P. & S. N. Y., '50; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '98; Mem. T. 

S. M. S. and Pres. id., '83. 
i860— rt. 1907..?!. H. Robinson Goshen Univ. N. Y., '60: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '89 and '93; 

Mem. T. S. M. S. 
t86o — r. 1861...A. .\. Lines Edcnville 



584 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society- 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 
Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

i860— d. 1885.. John S. Heard Newburgh ....P. & S. N. Y., 'z7; Pres. Board of 

Health Newburgh, 1867 to '83. 

P. 1862— r Maria S. Plumb Otisville M. M. C. 

1862 — r. 1870. . . Wm. B. Pierson Goshen 

1863-1867 N. F. Marsh Port Jervis ... 

1864-1870 David A. Gorton Newburgh Hy T. C. N. Y., '59; author and 

contributor to homeopathic lit. 
1863— r. 1865... Francis H. Roof Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '62; Ass. Surg. 39th 

Reg. 

1863— p. 1907.. Jas. C. Coleman Goshen A. M. C, '63; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1864 — d. 1897 . . Simeon D. Dubois ...Blooming 

Grove B. H. M. C, '64; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1864 — d- 1901 • -Joseph Moffat Washington- 

ville Univ. Mich., '52 ; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '70. 

1864— d. 1871 . . Edward E. Lee iS[ewburgh N. Y. M. C, '59. 

1864 — p. 1907.. C. H. Gorse Salisbury Mills. Univ. N. Y., '64. 

1864 — r. 1868. . . S. G. Dimmick Newburgh 

1864 — r. 1870... R. W. Heurtley Newburgh (Homeo.). 

186s— r. 1866... Robt. Farries ...... .Greenville L. L C. H. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1865 — r. 1870. . . Geo. W. Kerr Newburgh Univ. Glasgow, '63. 

1865— d. 1875.. Isaac S. Hunt Port Jervis ...Yale Univ., '65; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Mem. T. S. M. S. 

1865— r. 1883... J. D. F. Nichols Newburgh ....B. M. C, '65. 

1865— r. 1867... N. Roe Bradner, Jr. .Warwick Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1865— r. i894Hiram A. Pooler Goshen B. H. M. C, '65; Mem. O. C. 

- . M. S. 

1865 — d. 1905.. Adam P. Farries Florida Univ. Mich., '65; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Mem. id., '79. 
1865 — p. 1907. .Clarence Ormsbee ..East Colden-Univ. N. Y., '6s; Mem. O. C M. 

ham and S. ; Mem. N. B. M. S. 
Newburgh . . 

1866— d. 1883.. Darwin Everitt Middletown ...P. & S. N. Y., '64. 

1866— p. 1907.. Theo. Writer Otisville B. H. M. C, '66; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '84; Mem. T. 

S. M. S., and Pres., '82. 

1866 — p. 1907.. Jas. G. Birch Newburgh Harvard, '66. 

1866 — p. 1907.. James Gordon Newburgh J. M. C, '66; Health Officer City 

Newburgh, '72-'7 and '82-'93 ; 

ex-Visiting Phys. St. Luke's 

Hospl. 
1866— p. i907..Fredk. W. Seward.. .Goshen Univ. Vt., '66; Mem. O. C. H. M. 

S. and Pres., '89 and '90; Mem. 

H. M. S. D. O. & M. U. ; Mem. 

O. C. M. S. ; Prop. Interpines 

Sanitarium ; ex-Health Officer. 
i867_ret i907.Grenville A. Emory.. Middletown ...A. M. C, '67; Mem. O. C. M. S. ; 

Mem. T. S. M. S. 
1867— d. 1904.. Geo. B. L Mitchell ... Newburgh N. Y. H. M. C, '67. 




Milton C . C onncr, iVl.D. 



MEDICAL lliSTuRV OP ORANGE COUNTY. 585 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Di])loina ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies- 

Public Service, etc. 



1867— p. 1907. .J. D. Malone Newburgh D. M. C, '67. 

1867— r. 1875... David Van Dyke Xewburgh A. M. C, '52; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1867 — r. 1871. ..James A. Mills Xewburgh 

1868— r. 1895... Moses C. Stone Xewburgh Univ. X. Y., '68; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; ex-Phys. St. Luke's llosp. ; 
Health Officer City Xewburnli. 
•78-79. 

1S68— d. 1897.. Chas. X. Woolcy Xewburgh L. L C. H., '68; Mem. X B M S 

1868— d. 1899.. Jno. R. Monroe Highland Falls.L. L C. H., '68. 

1868— r. 1870... Ward Goshen 

1869— p. 1907.. John J. Mitchell Xewburgh .X. Y. M. C, '57; Mem. O. C. H. 

M. S. and Pres. id., 'j;^, '74, '75. 

1869-1875 M. E. Jones Port Jcrvis ... 

1869— d. 1904.. D. D. Wickham Port Jervis . . . Svracuse Univ., '76. 

P. 1869— r. 1886 \Vm. H. Vail Cornwall P. & S. N. Y., '69. 

1870— d. 1893- -A. J. Jessup Westtovvn andP. & S. X. Y., '69; Mem. O. C. 

Goshen M. S. ; .Mem. T. S. M. S. 

1870— d. 1897.. Jerome A. Maubey.. .Xewburgh Lie. Or. H. M. S., '60; Mem. O. 

C. H. M. S. ; literary and poet- 
ical contributor. 

1870— d. 1879.. Oris A. Carroll Port Jervis . . . C. M. C, '55; Mem. O. C. M. S. ; 

Mem. T. S. M. S. and Pres. id., 
'75' Surg. 143d Reg., '63. 

1871— d. 1880.. Fred H. Bradner Middletown ...X. Y. H. M. C, '71; Mem O C 

H. M. S. 

P. 1871 — r. 1877S. W. Clauson P> 1 o o m i n g 

Grove Univ. N. Y., '67 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1871— r. 1872.. .C. H. Y'errington....Craigville Univ. N. Y., '71 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

P. 1871 — r. i885jno. H. LeGrange Newburgh 

P. 187-'— r. i88i.\rthur Woodruff ...Goshen C. H. M. C, '73; Mem. O. C. H. 

M. C. and Pres. id., '79, '80, '81. 

P. 1872— d. i907Hcnry K. Bradner. . .Monroe, War-Univ. Pa., '72; Mem. O. C. M. S. ; 

wick Mem. T. S. M. S. 

P. 1872— r. 1877 Isaac Curtis Sugar Loaf ...M. S. M. ; Mem. O. C M. S 

P. 1872— r .\. W. Jackson Xewburgh ....Lie. M. S. U. C. 

1872— r. 1906... K. R. Post Xewburgh ....P. & S. N. Y., '67; Druggist. 

1873— r. 1874... C. S. Van Etten Sparrowbush ..Univ. Pa.: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1873 — d. 1897.. K. S. Elmer Monroe and Univ. Mich., '73; Mem. O. C. 

Cornwall M. S. 

1873— d. i896..Gustav Gartzmann ..X'ewburgh B. M. C, '71: Mem. O. CM S • 

Mem. X. B. M. S. 

1873— r. 1878... B. G. McCabe Middletown ...Mem. T. S. M. S. and Pres. id. 

P. 1875— r H. P. Chase Highland F"alls.P. & S. N. Y., '73. 

1874 — r. 1874.. .George F. Foote Middletown ...Organizer and 1st Supt. Middle- 
town State Hospital. '74. 

1874— r. 1883... Wm. M. Butler ^T^<Idlotown ...P. & S. N. Y., '73: Mem. O. C. H. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '82; ist 
Asst. Supt. State Hospital. 

1874 — d. 1881 . . F. D. Owens Westtovvn and 

Unionville . . Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 



586 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society 
Years of , Granting Di2.1oma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1874— V. 1883... J. T. Potter Port Jervis ...Syracuse Univ. 

1874— r. 1888... Clarence Conant . . . .Middletown ...N. Y. H. M. C, '73; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. 
1874— r. 1888... Allen P. McDonald. .Port Jervis . . . H. M. C. Ch. 
1874— d. 1900.. T. Burke Pillsbury.. .Middletown ...Harvard, '72; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres., '94; also Sec. id., '79- 

'90; Mem. T. S. M. S. and 

Pres., '86 ; Visiting Surg. Thrall 

Hospital. 
1874— d 1892.. J. H. Hunt Port Jervis . . . B. M. C, '72; Mem. O. C. M. S.; 

Mem. T. S. M. S. Erected 

Hunt Memorial Hospital. 

j374 — p 1007 . . D. T. Condict Searsville and 

Goshen A. M. C, '74 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id., '87; Health- Of- 
ficer. 
1874 — p. 1907.. E. Ross Elliott Montgomery ..Univ. N. Y., '74; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id. 'o3-'o6; Mem. 

N. B. M. S. 

1874— r E. H. Gillette Turners E. M. C. N. Y., '74. 

1874— d. 1884.. Jno. D. Stokem Turners E. M. C. N. Y., '74. 

1874.. r Emory G. Drake Cornwall L. I. C. H. 

1874— p 1907.. W. W. Wendover.... Warwick P. & S. N. Y., '74; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1874 — r 1877... Henry R. Stiles Middletown ...2d Supt. State Hospl. 

1875— r C. H. Wilson New Milford. . Univ. N. Y., [75; Lie. O. C. M. S. 

and Mem. id. 

187c— p. 1907..W. T. Seeley Amity and 

Warwick ...Yale, '75: Lie. O. C. M. S. and 

Mem. ; Mem. O. C. M. r\. 
1876-1880 H. C. Mueller Port Jervis ...P. & S. N. Y., '73.; Mem. T. S. 

M. S. 
1876— d 1890.. Wm. B. Eager Middletown ...P. & S. N. Y., '48: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres., '80; Mem. T. S. 

M. S. and Pres. 
1876— r. 1892.. .Arthur Pell Goshen B. M. C, '75 ; Mem. O. C M. S. 

and Pres. id., '90. 
1876— r. 1900... Alex. H. Goodman. .Salisbury Mills 

and C o r n - 

wall Univ. N. Y., '76 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1876— p. 1907.. R. J. Kingston Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '77, and N. Y. Col. 

Pharmacy. 

1876 Alex. B. Leggett Montgomery ..Lie. O. C. M. S. and Mem. id. 

1877— d. 1888.. Henry C. Smith Montgomery . . N. Y. H. M. C, '74; Mem. O. C. 

^ H. M. S. 

1877— r. 1895... Leon Devanoye Port Jervis ...France. 

1877— d. 1900..W. H. Edsall Otisville and 

Highland 

Falls A. M. C, '77 ; Mem. O. C. M. C. 

,877— r. 1878... R. C. Irving Campbell Hall.B. M. C, '77; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1877— r. 1883... R. S. Stansborough.. Newburgh Univ. N. Y., '74. 



iMEUlCAL lllSTUKV Ul- ORANGE COUNTY. 587 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies- 

Public Service, etc. 

1877— d. 1902.. S. H. Talcott Middlctown ...X. Y. H. M. C, '72; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. and Pres. id., '79-'8o; 
3rd Supt. State Hospl., '77-'o2; 
Lecturer X. Y. H. M. C. 

• 877— p. 1907.. Thco. D. Mills Port Jervis and 

Middlctown.. P. & S. N. Y., '76; Mem. O. C. 
M. S. ; Sec. and Pres., '83; Mem. 
T. S. M. S. and Pres., '78; Vis- 
iting Surg. Thrall Hospital. 

1877— p. 1907. .Klizabcth G. Meyer. .Turners \V. M. C. N. Y. L, '•ji; Mem. O. 

C. M. S. 

1877— P- 1907- -John Deyo Xewburgh B. H. M. C, '-j-j; Mem. O. C. M. 

S.; Mem. N. B. M. S. and 
Treas. id.; Ass. Phys., St. 
Luke's Hospl. 

1877— r. 1880... X. Emmons Payne.. .Middlctown ...A. M. C, '75; Mem. O. C. H. M. 

S. ; 2nd Asst. Supt. State Hos- 
pital. 

1878— r. i888....'\loysius Kesseler ...Xewburgh ....Univ. N. Y., '78. 

1878— p. 1907.. \V. L. Cuddeback....Port Jervis . . . B. H. M. C, '76; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., 91 ; Mem. T. Si 
M. S. and Pres. id., '78; Visit- 
ing Surg. Port Jervis Hospital. 

1878— d. 1898.. Chas. Collin Middlctown ...Lie. N. Eel. M. S., '78. 

1878— p. 1907.. Julia Bradner Middlctown ...X. Y. C. & H. for W. (Hom.), 

'■j2; Mem. H. M. S. D. O. & 
U.; Visiting Phys. Thrall Hos- 
pital. 

1878 — r. 1907. . . K. T. Jones Xewburgh and 

VValdcn H. R. Eel. Soc. 

1878— r. 1896.... A.. L. Leonard Central Valley. Univ. Pa. 

1878 — r. 1879... C. H. Stanley Warwick Boston Univ. (Hom.). 

P. 1879 — r W. H. Hanford Sparrowbush .. 

P. 1879— r A. A. Seymour Westtown 

1879 — r. 1900... C. S. Kinney Middlctown ...X\ Y. H. ^L C, '79; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. ; 1st Asst. Supt. State 
Hospl. 

P. 1879— r J. S. Vreeland Westtown 

P. 1879 — r H. B. Shaw Cornwall - on- 

Hudson P. & S. X. Y., '■!'7. 

1880— r. 1889... Flovd P. Sheldon.... Xewburgh ....Univ. Mich. CH.') : Mem. O. C. 

H. :M. S. and Sec. id. 

t88o Jno. F. Higgins Port Jervis . . . B. H. M. C, '80 ; Mem. T. S. M. S. 

1880— d. 1897.. H. D. Struble Unionville and 

Middletow^n..Univ. Pa.. '7=;: Mem. T. S. M. S.; 
Mem. O. C. M. .S. : Health Of- 
ficer, '9 1 -'92. 

1880 — r. 1889. ..E. J. Birmingham. . .Cornwall - on- 

Hudson P. & S. N. Y., '-^i. 

1881— r. 1882.. .Simon C. Bradley. . .Middlctown ...P. & S. N. Y., '80. 



588 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society- 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 
Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1881 — d. 1905.. David B. Smilev Scotchtown and 

Middletown..P. & S. N. Y., '81; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1881— r Wm. B. DeWitt Pine Bush Univ. N. Y. 

1881 — r Edw. R. Bowden. .. .Turners L. I. C. H. 

1881 — r. 1884.. .Millard Brockway ..Cornwall and 

Newburgh . . E. M. C. 
1881— p. 1907.. Wm. E. Douglass.... Middletown ...B. H. M. C, '76; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres., '88; Mem. O. C. 

M. A. and Pres., '03 and '04; 

Visiting Phvs. Thrall Hospl. 
1881— p. 1907.. Wm. H. Faulkner... Walden N. Y. H. M. C, '81; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. C. 

1881— r E. J. Westfall Middletown ...P. & S. N. Y., '71. 

1882— r. 1888... R. E. Asher Sparrowbush ..N. Y. H. M. C, '82. 

1882— r. 1892... Sarah Clock Newburgh . . . . N. Y. M. C. & H. for W., "82; 

Mem. O. C. H. M. S. 

1882— d. 1893.. Arthur P. Olney Middletown ...Univ. Buffalo, '82. 

1882— r. 1882.. .Arthur W. Condict. .Howells Univ. Mich., '82 ; Mem. T. S. M. S. 

1882— d. i90i..Geo. H. Dav Monroe U. S. M. C. (Eel.). 

1882— p. 1907.. E. B. Lambert Port Jervis . . . N. Y. H. M. C, '82; Mem. O. C. 

. M. A. and O. C. M. S. 
1882— r. 1904... James O. Davis Howells A. M. C, '75; Mem. T. S. M. S. 

and Pres., '87; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1883— d. 1905.. D. G. Lippincott Campbell Hall. J. M. C, 'S3: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

1883— p. 1907.. Milton C. Conner.... Middletown ...P. & S. N. Y., '83; Mem. N. B. 

M. S.; Mem. O. C. M A. and 

Pres., 'oi-'o3; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : ex-Health Officer. 

1883— r .'Felix Carren Middletown ...E. M. C. N. Y. 

1883 — p. 1907.. George S. Bond Washington- 

ville P. & S. N. Y., '83; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1883— r Maria B. Patterson. .Turners W. M. C. N. Y. L 

1883 — r. 1890. . . Alonzo P. William- 
son Middletown ...H. M. C. Pa., '76; Mem. O. C. H. 

M. S. and Pres. id., '83, '85, '87; 

1st Asst. Supt. State Hospl., 

'83-90. 
1884 — d. 1904.. James F. Ferguson. .Central Valley. Univ. N. Y., i860. Founder and 

Prop. Falkirk Sanitarium. 

1884— r. 1894... W. H. Illman Port Jervis ...P. & S., '84. 

1884 — p. 1907.. W. L Purdy Westtown and 

Middletown.. Univ. N. Y.. '82; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Treas. and Pres. id., '00; 

Mem. T. S. M. S. and Pres. id., 

'88; Visiting Surg. Thrall 

Hospl. ; Health Officer, '94, '95, 

•96. 



.MEDICAL lllSTokV Ol- ORANGE COL'XTV. 589 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



1884— r William I. Wallace. .Wasliington- 

villc I'niv. Midi. 

1884 — r. 1898.. .Lemuel G. Roberts. .Xe\vl)urgli Univ. X. Y., '82. 

1887 — p. 1907. .E. Fanclicr Middlctoun ...Univ. Boston (H.) ; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S., H. M. S. D. O. & U., 

O. C. M. .-\. and O. C. M. S. ; 

Visiting Phys. Thrall Hnspl. 

1884 — r Gordon ?>. Barnes. . .Montgomerv ..Univ. N. Y., '84. 

1884— r W^illiam Scheide . . . .Middletown ...B. H. M. C. '66. 

188;— d. 1902.. Charles W. Butler... Cornwall Univ. X. Y., '8^ ; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
i88^— d. 1906.. Louis E. Hanmorc.Xcwburgh ....P. & S. N. Y., '84: also Ph.G. N. 

Y. C. Ph.; Mem. O. C. M. S. ; 

ex-Visiting Phys. St. Luke's 

Hospl. 

188;— r Frank Whitaker Otisville Univ. X. Y., 'S3. 

1885— r Edward W. Karri- 
man Middletown .. .Univ. X. Y., '84. 

iS8^— p. 1907.. 1 1. B. Swartout Port Jervis ,..B. H. M. C, '8^ : Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : Vis. Surg. P. J. Hospital; 

Mavor Port Jervis. 

i88s— r. 1887... Geo. F. Rice Chester Univ." X. Y. 

1886— r. 1889... Charles X. Payne. .. .Port Jervis ...X. Y. H. M. C, '85; Mem. O. C. 

I-I. M. S. 

1886— r. 1888... Louis Bertine Middletown ...B. H. M. C. '86. 

1886 — d. 1901 . . A. L. Brown Cornwall - on- 

Hudson .\. M. C. '86; also Ph.G.; Mem. 

O. C. M. S. 
1886 — p. 1907.. F. W. Dennis Unionville Univ. Mich.. "81; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : Mem. O. C. ^L A. 

,8X6— r I-:. O. Eckart Cornwall Boston Univ. ( H. ) . 

1886— p. 1907.. 1-. W. Best Port Jervis ...X. Y. H. M. C. '85: Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. 
1886 — p. 1907. . Cliinon C Coolcy. . .Montgomery 

and Pine Bush.. \. M. C. "84: Mem. O. C. M. S. 
1886— p. 1907.. Jacob B. Peters Walden Univ. X. Y., •85: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id.. '99; Mem. N. 

B. M. S.; ex-Health Officer. 

1887— r. 1891...W. Coe McKeeby.... Otisville Univ. Md., 'Sj. 

1887— r. 1898... L. L. Gillette Turners Univ. W.. '87; 'Wcm. O. C. M. S. 

1887 — I" Hopier A. Hitchcock.G o s h e n and 

H i g h 1 a n d 

Va\\< Univ. X. Y., '80. 

1887— r. 1900... W. Frank Ross Cornwall P. & S. Bait, and X. Y. H. M. C, 

'St. 

1887— p. 1907.. John T. Howell Xewburgh ....P. & S. X. Y.. '85: Mem. O. C. 

^[. S. and Pres. id.. '92; Mem. 
X. R. M. S. and Pres. id.. '97; 
Mem. O. C. M. A.: Visiting 
Surg. St. Luke's Hosp. 



590 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Years of 
Practice. 



Name. 



Medical College or Society 
Granting Diploma ; Memberships 
Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



1887— r J. A. Bush Middletown .. 

1887 — p. 1907 . . A. C. Santee Scotchtown . . 

1887 — r .John P. Henry Montgomery . 

1887 — p. 1907.. Edward C Rush- 
more Tuxedo Park . 

1887— r. 1906... F. D. Meyers Slate Hill .... 

1887— r. 1889... Jos. O. Reed Middletown .. 

1887 — P- 1907.. W. Stanton Gleason.Newburgh ... 

1887 — d. 1907.. Louis A. Harris Newburgh ... 

1887— r. 1898. .. Daniel H. Arthur. ...Middletown ., 

1888 — r. 1896. . .Howard E. Winans.. Newburgh .., 
1888— d. 1899.. W. J. Nelson Middletown ., 

1888— d. 1907.. Jas. E. O'Malley Newburgh ... 

1888 — p. 1907.. Edgar Potts Port Jervis . 

1888— p. 1907.. J. B. Hulett Middletown . 



-p. i907..Erank M. Cummins. .Warwick .. 
1888 — p. 1907. . Alpheus E. Adams... Newburgh 



-r. 1906. . . Stephen D. Harrison . Cornwall - on- 

Hudson ... 



) — r. i89i...To«. W. McCready. . .Goshen 

1889 — d. 1899. . J. L. Kortright Middletown 

1889 — p. 1907.. Frank A. Jacobson .. Newburgh . 



. P. & S. Bait, '8S. 

J. M. C, '86; Mem. O. C. M. S.; 

Mem. O. C. M. A. 
.Univ. N. Y. 

. P. & S. N. Y., '86 ; Mem. O. C. M. 

S.; Mem. O. C. M. A. 
.Univ. Mich., '93; Mem. O. C. M. 

S.; Mem. O. C. M. A. 
.N. Y. H. M. C, '87; Asst. Phys. 
i State Hosp. 
.Univ. N. Y., '86: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres.. '01 ; Mem. N. B. 

M. S. and Pres.; Mem. O. C. 

M. A.; Visiting Phys. St. 
i Luke's Hosp. 
.A. M. C, '84. 
. N. Y. H. M. C, '87 ; 2d Ass. Supt. 

State Hosp., '97; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. 
.N. Y. H. M. C, '88. 
.Univ. Md.. '83; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Health Officer, '97. 
.Univ. N. Y., '88: ex- Visiting 

Phys. St. Luke's Hosp. 
.Univ. N. Y., '88; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
.P. & S. N. Y., '87: Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and Pres., '96: Mem. O. 

C. M. A. : Visiting Surg. Thrall 

Hospl. 
.N. Y. H. M. C. '88: Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. and H. M. S. D. O. 

& U. 
.P. & S. N. Y.. "79: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '95 ; Mem. N. 

B. M. S. and Pres. id., '96; 
' Mem. O. C. M. A.; Consl. 

Ophth. & Otol. St. Luke's Hosp. 

.P. /^ S. N. Y.; '79: Mem. N. B. 

M. S. and Pres. id.. '03; Consl. 
i Phvs. St. Luke's Hosp. 
.B. M. C, '88: Mem. O. C. M. S. 
P. 8c S. N. Y., '80: Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
.N. Y. H. M. C. '88: Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. and Sec. '90; Mem. 

H. M. S. D. O. & U. and Sec. 

and Treas. id. 




Henry B. Swartwout. M.D. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 591 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Xame. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1889— d. 1900.. A. Winfield Bergen. .Cornwall N. Y. H. M. C, '87; Mem. O. C. 

H. M. S. 

1889— r lacob Walter Xewburgh ....H. M. C. Pa., '87. 

1889— p. 1907 -J. H. Hanmer MiddLtown ...E. M. C. N. Y., '83; Health Of- 
ficer, i898-'o8. 

1889 — p. 1907. .David II. Sprague. . .Middlctown and 

Central Valley.Univ. N. Y., '86: Mem. O. C. M. 
S. ; Mem. O. C. M. A. 

1889— r. 1899.. -Wm. G. Birdsall Cornwall X. Y. H., '88; Mem. H. M. S. D. 

O. & U. 

1890— r. 1891...I". S. Cole Xewburgh ....P. & S. X. Y., '90; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1890— r. 1894... E. \V. Hitchcock Goshen X. Y. H. M. C, '90; ex-Health 

Officer. 

1890— d. 1895.. E. H. Borst Xewburgh ....P. & S. X. Y., '90: Mem. O. C. 

M. S.; Mem. N. B. M. S. ; Vis- 
iting Surg. St. Luke's Hosp. 

1890— r. 1902... G. H. Brown Highland Falls.P. & S. N. Y., '89: Mem. N. B. 

M. S. and O. C. M. S. 

1890— r. 1906... II. Martyn Brace. ... Port Jervis . . . P. & S. X. Y., '81. 

1890 — r. 1890. . . X'athan B. Van 

Ettcn Port Jervis . . . B. H. M. C, '90. 

1890 — r T. C. Vandeveer Monroe L. I. C. H., '90. 

1890— r. 1903... William Evans Westtown P. & S. N. Y., 'go: Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and O. C. M. A. 

1890— d. 1907.. Louis R. Pierce X'ewburgh L. T. C. H.. '89: Mem. O. C. M. 

S.: Mem. O. C. M. .A..: Mem. 
N. B. M. S. ; Sec. and Pres. id., 
'00: Visiting Obst. St. Luke's 
Mospl. : died Dec, 1907. 

ifjqo— r F. A. Carpenter Slate Hill Eel. Univ. Cinn.. '89. 

i.Sqo— r \ndrew T. Carpenter.Slatc Hill E. M. C. X. Y.. '86. 

1890 — p. 1907.. Robert Kearns Montgomery ..P. & S. X. Y., '88. 

1890— r. 1897... George Allen Middletown ...II. M. C. Pa.. 77: ist Asst. Supt. 

State Hosp. 

ifV)i— r. 1893. .. Edward F. Smith. .. .Goshen B. H. M. C. ^ 

1891 — p. 1907.. '^. L. Sweeney X^'wburgh ....Univ. N. Y.. '90. 

i8gr_p. 1907. .Thos. L. Gilson Middletown ...L. T. C. H.. 'or: Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : Health Officer. '93. 

i8g,_p. T907..T. D. Brownell Walden L. T. C. H., 'or; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : Mem. N. B. M. S. : ex- 
Health Officer. 

T891 — p. 1907.. Wm. E. Reed Wa<bington- 

vMle X. Y. H. M. C. '84: Mem. II. M. 

'^ D. O. &• U. : Pres., '07. 

T891— p. 1007.. E. .\. Xugcnt Unionville . . . . B. H. M. C, 'or: >rcm. O. C. M. 

< ->..'! O C M. A. 

1892— r. 1902... Chas. W. Banks Port Tervis ...B. TI. >T. G. 'on; Mem. O. C. M. 

*=;. : Health Officer, i89.=;-'96 and 

I OCT -'02. 



592 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Years of 
Practice. 



Name. 



Aledical College or Society 
Granting Diploma ; Memberships 
Location. in Comity Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



1892 — r. 1907... Chas. E. Skinner Port Jervis 



1892— r. 1894.. 
1892 — p. 1907. 
1892 — p. 1907. 



1893— r. 1895.. 

1893— r. 1895- • 

1895— r. 1897.. 

1893— p. 1907- 

1893— p. 1907- 



1893— P- 1907. 

1893— p. 1907. 

1893— p. 1907- 

1893— p. 1907- 

1893— p. 1907- 

1893— p. 1907- 

1893— p. 1907- 



1894 — r. 1896.. 
1894 — r. 1899.. 

1894 — r 

1894— p. 1907- 



1894 — P- 1907- 

1894 — P- 1907. 

1894 — P- 1907. 

1894— p. 1907. 

1894 — p. 1907. 

1894 — P- 1907. 

1894 — P- 1907- 



. Mary Beattie Newburgh . 

Chas. P. Smith Chester 

M. C. Ashley Middletown 

Jas. E. Spiegel Middletown 

Josiah M. Ward Goshen 

. Wm. E. Sebring Searsville . , 

Thos. K. Burke Newburgh . 

Chas. E. Townsend. .Newburgh . 



. Robt. A. Taylor Port Jervis ... 

.W. S. Russell Highland Mills 

. M. H. Dubois Washington- 

ville 

.J. S. Cummins Warwick 

. E. O. Mitchell Newburgh 

.Clara Barrus Middletown ... 

. Andrew V. Jova Newburgh . . . . 

.Mortimer W. Shaw. .Middletown ... 

.H. B. Masten Chester 

.Walter S. Elliott Port Jervis ... 

. D. B. Hardenburgh. .Middletown ... 

.Chas. H. Hall Monroe 

.C. Willis Many Florida 

. F. M. Phillips Newburgh 

.Chas. N. Knapp Port Jervis ... 

.Geo. F. Pitts Warwick 

.Edward F. Brooks. . .Newburgh 

.John E. Leemon Middletown ... 



B. H. M. C, 92; Mem. O. C. M. 
S. ; Health Officer, i893-'95 and 
'96-'97. 

L. I. C. H., 92 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

H. M. C. Pa., '92; Mem. H. M. S. 
D. O. & U. ; former Asst. and 
since '02 Supt. State Hospital. 

Univ. Buffalo. 

B. H. M. C; ex-Health Officer. 

A. M. C, '93 ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 
Niagara Univ., '91. 

B. H. M. C, '92; Mem. O. C. M. 
S. and Pres., '03 ; Mem. O. C. 
M. A.; Mem. N. B. M. S. and 
Sec'jr, '95 ; Visiting Surg. St. 
Luke's Hospital. 

B. H. AL C, '93; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and O. C. M. A. 
Univ. N. Y., '93; Mem. O. C. 

M. A. 

B. H. M. C, '93; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
H. M. C. Chic, '91 ; Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U. 
Harvard Univ., '92. 
Univ. Bost. (H.), '88; Woman 

Phys. State Hosp. ; Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U. 
P. & S. N. Y., ;84 ; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and Pres. id., '99; Mem. N. 

B. M. S. and Pres. id., '00; Vis- 

itine Phvs. St. Luke's Hospl. 
L. I. C. H., '92; Mem. O. C. M. S. 
P. & S. N. Y., '94. 
P. & S. Bait, '78. 
P. & S. N. Y., '91; Mem. O. C. 

i\L S. and Pres. id., '02; Visit- 
ing Phys. Thrall Hosp. 
P. & S. Bait., '91; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
L. L C. H., '94 ; Mem: O. C. M. S. 
Univ. N. Y., '94. 
B. H. M. C, '94; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Health Officer, 1902 to '03. 
Univ. N. Y., '77 \ Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
Univ. N. Y., '94; Mem. O. C. M. 

S.; Mem. N. B. M. S. 
Univ. N. Y., '94. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE LUL X TV. 593 

Medical CulliRf ur Society 
Years of Granting Diploma ; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1894 — p. 1907.. Arthur P. PoweIson..Middletown and 

Walden X. Y. H. M. C, '94; Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U.; Asst. Phys. 

State Hosp., '96-'oi. 
1894— P- 1907 . . R. L. Gcocli Goshen X. Y. H. M. C, 94 ; Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U. 

1894— p. 1907.. Henry Wilson Xewburgh R. C P. & S. Eng., '79. 

1895— d. T899.. James \Vood Xewburgh B. H. M. C, '91; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. : Mem. N. B. M. S. Died in 

service U. S. A., Cuba, '99. 
1895— r. 1897... A. F. Hardlicka Middletown ...E. M. C N. Y. ; Asst. Phys. State 

Hosp. 
1895— p. 1907.. Hilton J. Shelley Middletown ...E. I. Lines: Univ. N. Y., '89; 

Mem. O. C AL S. 

1895— p. 1907- C. I. Redfield Middletown ...Univ. Pa., '94; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

' and Pres. id., '04; Mem. O. C. 

M. A. ; ex-Sec. N. Y. State Med. 

Assn.; Health Officer, 1898. 
1S95— P- 1907- -William J. Carr Xewburgh . . . . B. H. M. C. ; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Treas. id. ; Mem. O. C. M. 
: A. ; Mem. X. B. M. S. and Pres. 

id., '06: Health Officer City 

Xewburgh, '97-'04 ; Ass. Visiting 

Surg. St. Luke's Hosp. 

1895— p. 1907.. E. J. Leahy Port Jervis ...Queen's Col. Ontario, '93. 

1895— p. 1907. .Ly Sander M. Jones. . Port Jervis . . . Medico-Chir. Phila., "93; Health 

Officer, '97 to '01. 
1895— p. 1907. .Raphael F. Medrick.. Port Jervis ...Univ. Pa.. '95; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. ; Health Officer, 1903 to 1907. 

1^5— P- 1907 •• H. E. Wise Turners and 

Tuxedo Park. Univ. X. Y.. '95; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and O. C. M. A. 
1895— p. 1907. .Isabelle M. Wilson. .Middletown ...X. Y. M. C. for W., 94; Mem. 

]{. M. C. D. O. & U. 
1895— p. 1907.. W. H. Snyder Xewburgh ....X. Y. H. M. C. '9^ : Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U. : Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and O. C M. A.: also X. B. 

M. S. : Asst. Visiting Phys. St. 

Luke's Hosp. : Health Officer 

Citv X'^ewburgh. 
1895— p. 1907- ■ E. M. Shultz Middletown ... X. Y. H. M. C X. Y., '9^ ; Mem. 

H. M. S. D. O. & U. 
,895— p. 1907.. Fred A. Hadlev Walden P. & S. Bait.. '95; Mem. X. B. M. 

S. and O. C. M. S. 
1895— p. 1907.. W. H. F. Burke Middletown ...B. H. M. C, '82: Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
1895— p. 1907.. Warren Worcester.. .Middletown ...P. & S. Bait.; also D.D.S., '88; 
\ ?\Iem. O. C. M. S. Practices 

Dentistry. 
iSf/)— r. 1807.. .Jnliu^ A. Winter ....Port Jervis ...T. T. C. H. 



594 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Medical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Location. Name. in County Medical Societies- 

Public Service, etc. 



i8q6— p. IQ07.. William Hollinger ..Newburgh ....Univ. N. Y., '92; Mem. O. C. M. 
^ ^. S. and N. B. M. S. 

1896— r Norman W. Currie. .Searsville Univ. N. Y. ; Mem, O. C. M. S. 

1896— r. 1899. . . E. M. Devol Goshen Univ. N. Y., '96. 

1896— p. 1907.. I. H. Lent Middletown ...A. M. C, '74; Mem. O. C. M. S.; 

Cons. Ophth. Thrall Hosp. 

1896— p. 1907.. E. D. WoodhuU Monroe D. M. C, '95; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and Pres. id.; Mem. O. C. M. 
> A. and Pres., '04. 

1896— r. 1907... D. E. Francisco Middletown ...N. Y. H. M. C, '96; Asst. Phys. 

State Hosp. 

1896— r Mary G. Cummins . . . Goshen H. M. C. N. Y., '96. 

1896 — r. 1907. .. Frank A. Augur Newburgh and 

Searsville ...P. & S. Bait, '86. 

1897 — r. 1898. . . Geo. B. Brown East Colden- 

ham B. H. M. C, '97; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1897—0. 1907.. F. W. Gerecke Newburgh B. H. M. C, '97; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1897— p. 1907 . . L. J. Merritt Pine Bush and 

Mavbrook ...Univ. Md., '97; Mem. O. C. M. A. 
and O. C. M. S. 

1897— p. 1907.. Ira C. Whitehead... Walden B. M. C. Mass., '55; Health Of- 

j ficer since '03. 

1897 — p. 1907.. Mary Ella Dunning. .Newburgh W. M. C. Phil., '96; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and O. C. M. A. 

1897— p. 1907.. M. A. Stivers Middletown ...P. & S. N. Y., '94; Mem. O. C. 

■ M. S.; Visiting Phys. Thrall 
Hosp. 

1897 — p. 1907.. H. J. Powelson Middletown ...H. M. C. Phila., '94. 

1897 — r Clarence Klar Florida H. M. C. Phila., '96. 

1897— r. 1905... Edward A. Everitt.. .Middletown ...N. Y. H. AL C, '97; 2d Asst. 

Supt. State Hosp. 
^[897— r. 1899... Clarence A. Potter. .Middletown ...N. Y. H. M. C, '97; Junior Phys. 

State Hosp. 

1897 — r. 1900. ..Harry P. Dawe Chester Univ. N. Y., '03. 

:[898— r. 1900. . . H. S. Cooley Newburgh . . . . B. H. M. C, "98. 

1898 — r. 1904. ..Geo. A. H. Smith East Colden- 

ham L. L C. H., 98 ; Mem. N. B. M. S. 

1898— p. 1907.. H. A. Waldron Newburgh ....A. M. C, 'jj; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and O. C. M. A.; Mem. N. B. 
M. S.; Pres,, '04. 

1898 — p. 1907. . H. S. Trigg Cornwall Univ. Vt., '81. 

1898— p. 1907.. W. L. Dunning Newburgh B. H. M. C, '92; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and N. B. M. S. 
1898— p. 1907.. Robt. C. Woodman.. Middletown ...H. M. C. Phila., '95; ist Asst. 

Supt. State Hospl. ; Mem. H. 
M. S. D. O. & U. 

i8q8— p. 1907.. A. H. Bavard Cornwall A. M. C, '89: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and N. B. M. S. 




J. B. Hulett. M.D. 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 595 

Medical College or Society 
Years of (irantiiiR Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in Count}- Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1898 — r Edward H. Sharp — Central Valley. Univ. Buffalo, '98. 

1899— r. 1902... M. V. Wilkie Deerpark P. & S. X. Y., '94. 

1899— p. 1907.. Albert W. Preston. .Middletown ...P. & S. X. Y., 96; Mem. O. C. M. 

S. and O. C. M. A. 

1899 — r. 1902. . . I'rtie W. Banks Port Jervis ...Cornell Univ., '99. 

1899— r W. R. Tubbs... Port Jervis . . . H. M. C. Phila. 

1899 — p. 1907. .Lawrence G. Distler. Middletown ...I'.. H. 'SI. C, '09: Mem. O. C. M. 

.\. and Sec. id.: Mem. O. C. 
-M. S. 

1899— p. 1907.. Chas. \V. Dennis Goshen R. M. C. "83: ^^em. O. C. M. S. 

and Sec. id.; Consl. Phys. 
Thrall Hosp. 

1899 — p. 1907.. H. T. Kurtz Highland Falls. Cornell Univ. 

1899 — r. 1905. ..Reeve Turner Middletown ...X. Y. H. M. C, '99; Asst. Phys. 

State Hosp., '99-'o5. 

1900 — r B. V. E. Dolph Port Jervis ...Syracuse Univ., '00. 

1900-1907 Hiram D. Walker. . .Xewhurs^h Univ. Buffalo. '64; Mem. N. B. 

M. S. Discovered that earth- 
worms convey the parasite of 
"gapes" to fowls. 

1900 — p. 1907.. F. W. Seward, Jr Goshen X. Y. H. M. C, '98: Mem. H. M. 

S. D. O. & U. ; Asst. Phys. In- 
terpincs. 

1900 — r. 1902. .. Emory G. Drake. .. .Cornwall L. T. C. H. 

1900 — p. 1907.. David H. Chandler. .Cornwall X. "S". H. M. C. 92; Mem. H. >L 

C. D. O. & U. 

1900 — r. 1903. ..C. A. Canfield Middletown ...Univ. X. Y.. '86. 

1900 — r. 1906... J. .\ustin Kelly Chester L. T. C. H., 95: >rem. O. C. M.S. 

1901 — r. 1905. ..E. R. Smitli Washington- 

ville L. T. C. H.. '01. 

1901 — r. 1906. — H. A. Ferguson Central Valley. Univ. X. Y. Prop. Falkirk Sani- 
tarium, 'o4-'o6. 

1901— p. 1907.. Geo. \V. Blanchard..Hioidand Falls.M. S .M., '9s: Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and X. B. M. S. ; Phys. to Con- 
vent. 

1901 — p. 1907. .Mcrritt L Beers Middletown ...X. Y. H. M. C. 'or; Mem. O. C 

M. A. and O. C. M. S. 

I90t— p. 1907.. Julia F. Fish Midflletown ...Pulte Med. Col., 'or; Interne 

State Hosp. 

1902 — p. 1907.. George E. Brewster. .Middletown ...X. Y. H. M. C, '00; 2d Asst. 

Supt. State Hospl. ; Mem. H. 
M. S. D. O. & U. and O. C. 

^r. s. 

1902 — r. 1904. ..Fred L Savage Chester B. H. M. C. "70. 

1902 — p. 1907. .Elizabeth J. Jaeger. .Cornwall W. M. C. Phil., 02. 

1002— p. 1907.. Henry L, Winter. .. .Cornwall Univ. X. Y., 92; Mem. X. B, M 

S. and Pros. id. ; Mem. O. C 

M. A. and O. C. ^f. S. ; Cons. 

Xeurol. St. Luke's Hospl.. Xew- 

burgh. 



596 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Aledical College or Society 
Years of Granting Diploma: Memberships 

Practice. Name. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 



1902 — p. 1907.. Thos. D. McMena- 

min Highland Falls. Cornell Univ., '01; Mem. O. C. 

M._ S. 

1902 — r. 1907... Francis H. Dreyer.. .Searsville X. Y. H. jNI. C, '94. 

1902 — p. 1907.. Albert Brinkman ...Central Valley 

and Brook- 
lyn Univ. X. Y., '83. 

iqo^ — r. IQ07... Aaron D. Davidow. .Florida P. & S. Chicago, '94; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

jqo:!— p. 1907..F. P. Howser Otisville B. U. M. C, 91; Mem. O. C. 

^ M. S. 

,go3— p. 1907.. Roy E. Mitchell Middletown ...Univ. Mum. (H.), 01; .\sst. 

Phys. State Hospl. ; Mem. n. 

M. S. D. O. & U. ; Mem. O. C 

M. A. and O. C. M. S. 

1903— p. 1907.. Max H. Skou Slate Hill X. Y. Eel., '01. 

IQ04— p. 1907.. Geo. O. Pobe Port Jervis ...L. I. C. H., 01; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

IQ04— p. 1907. .Frank E. Gessner. ...Port Jervis . . . B. H. M. C, 03; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

jgo4 — p. 1907.. Palmer R. Bowdish.. Cornwall A. M. C, "04. 

1904— r. i9o6...Henrv F. Parker Newburgh J. M. C, "83. 

iQ04_p 1907.. E. C. Thompson Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '01; Mem. O. C. 

M. A. and N. B. M. S. ; Sec. 

id. ; Asst. Visiting Surg. St. 

Luke's Hosp. 

1904 — p. 1907. Percv E. Banks East Colden- 

ham L. I. C. H., 04 ; Mem. X. B. M. S. 

1904— r A. S. Moore Middletown ...Univ. Mich. (H.). "oi ; Asst. 

Phys. State Hospl. 

igo4 — r Leroy James Smith.. Turners U. & B. H. M. C, '05. 

jQOC — p 1907... \. Judson Benedict. .Newburgh Univ. Buffalo; Mem. O. C. M. S. 

and O. C. M. A. : Mem. N. B. 

M. S. : Visiting Rhin. and Otol. 

St. Luke's Hospl. 

igo: — p. 1907.. Elijah Osterhout Newburgh Svracuse Univ., '96: Mem. O. C. 

'M. S. and O. C. M. A.; Mem. 

N. B. M. S. 
igo5— p 1907.. W. B. Andrews Newburgh P. & S. N. Y., '03; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. and N. B. M. S. 
1905 — p. 1907.. W. W. Davis Chester Syracuse Univ., '03; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
1905— p. 1907.. John L Cotter Campbell Hall. A. M. C, '04; Mem. O. C M. S. 

and N. B. M. S. 
1905 — p. 1907.. Jesse D. I\Iars Florida Univ. Mich., '04; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 
1905 — p. 1907.. F. W. H. Massey. .. .Union ville ....Univ. N. Y., '84. 

1905 — r. i907...LeRoy J. Smith Turners Univ. & B. H. M. C, '04. 

1905 — p. 1907.. Nelson W. Thomp- 
son Middletown ...Univ. Mich. (H.), '05; Interne 

State Hospl. 



Mi£L)lLAL I1IST(JR\' Ul' (JRAXGE LUl N lA' 



597 



Medical C(jllcgc or Society 
Years of ( i;;.i:tiii,t; Diploma; Memberships 

Practice. Xame. Location. in County Medical Societies — 

Public Service, etc. 

1905— p. 1907.. H. V. Bingham Middletown ...X. V. H. M. C, '05; Junior Ass. 

Phys. State Hospl. 
1906 — p. 1907.. Carlos F. ]\IacDon- 

ald Central Valley 

a n d X e w 

York City ...B. H. M. C, '69^ Propr. and 

Phys. in charge The Dr. !Mac- 

Donald House; also X. Y. C. 
1906 — p. 1907. . Lillian Morgan Middletown ...X. Y. ^L C. & H. tor W., '06; ex- 

Sui)t. Thrall Hosp., '07. 

1906 — p. 1907.. Fred B. Colby Highland Falls. I). ^I. C, "06. 

1906 — p. 1907. .Clarence J. Slocum. .Central V^illey.A. M. C, "97: Supt. of The Dr. 

Mac Donald House. 
1906— p. 1907.. Geo. W. Sliirk Cornwall R. M. C, '97; Mem. X. B. M. S. 

and O. C. M. S. 
T906 — p. 1907.. Henry B. Ballon Middletown ...Univ. Mich. (H.), '05; Interne 

State Hospl. 

1906 — p. 1907.. Benj. Ver Xooy Middletown ...Univ. & B. H. M. C, '96. 

1906— p. 1907.. Robt. Cordncr Middletown ...P. & S. X. Y., '99; Mem. O. C. 

M. S. 

1907 — p. 1907.. H. G. Hubbell Cornwall L. L C. H., "06. 

1907 — 11. 1907. .Talcott O. Vanamec. Xcwbura;h ....P. & S. X. Y., '04: Mem. O. C. 

^L S.^ 

1907 — ]). 1907.. B. F. Seaman X'ewlnirgh \. M. C. '05. 

TO07 — p. 1007. . Burke Hamilton . . . .Goshen Syracuse Univ.. "05. 



i:XI'LAXA'ITOX OF ABBRFVTATIOXS. 



Blank space — Information could not be ascertained. 

D. — Died in Orange County. 

Hon. — Honorary. 

Id. — Tile same. 

Inc. — Incorporator. 

Lie. — Licentiate of Mrdii-.il Society naiiKMi. 

Mem. — Member. 

Pres. — President. 

P. — Practicing at the time named. 

R. — Removed from the county. 

Ret. — Retired. 

.\. M. C. — Albany Medical College (Union L'niv.). 

B. H. M. C— I'.ellevue Hospital Medical College ( Con>olidateil with L'niv. N. Y, 

•98). 
1:. M. C— Berkshire Medical Clkge (Ma>>. ). 

B. M. S. — Botanical Medical Society (X. \.). 

C. M. C— Castlelon Medical Colleiie (\'t.1 ( I-'.\tinct iSirtil. 



598 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

C. H. M. C. — Cleveland Homeopathic Medical College. 
Cornell Univ. — Cornell University, Medical Dept. (N. Y. C). 

D. M. C— Dartmouth Medical College (N. H.). 

E. Al. C. N. Y.— Eclectic Medical College of New York City. 

G. M. C. — Geneva Medical College, N. Y. ^ 

Harvard Univ. — Harvard University, Medical Dept. (Boston). * 

Hy. T. C. N. Y. — Hygiene-Therapeutic College, X. Y. City. | 

H. M. C. — Hahnemann Medical College (Phila. or Chicago). I 

H. M. S. D. O. & U.^Homeopathic ^Medical Society of Dutchess, Orange and Ulster < 

Counties. 
J. M. C— Jefiferson Medical College (Phila.). , 

L. I. C. H. — Long Island College Hospital (Brooklvn). » 

M. M. C— Middlebury Medical College (Vt.j. (Extinct 1856.) | 

Met. M. C. Ec. — Metropolitan Medical College, Eclectic (Chicago). (Extinct 1862.) j 

M. S. M. — Medical School of Maine (Bowdoin). 

M. S. S. N. Y.— Medical Society of State of New York. j 

M. S. C. N. Y. — Medical Society of City of New York. 

M. S. D. C. — Medical Society of Dutchess County. ' 

]\I. S. U. C. — Medical Society of Ulster County. | 

M. S. H. C. — Medical Society of Herkimer County. 
M. S. M. C. — Medical Society of Montgomery County. 

N. Y. H. M. C. — New York Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital. ', 

N. Y. C. & H. for W. — New. York College and Hospital for Women (Homeo- 
pathic ) . 
Niagara Univ. — Niagara University — Medical Dept. (Buffalo). 
N. Y. H. — New York Hospital. 
N. B. M. S.— Newburgh Bay I^Iedical Society. 

N. E. M. S. — Newburgh Eclectic Medical Society. (Extinct.) j 

O. C. M. A. — Orange County Medical Association. ( Extinct.) ! 

O. C. M. S. — Orange County Medical Society. ( 

O. C. H. M. S. — Orange County Homeopathic Medical Society. (Extinct.) I 

O. H. M. S. — Oneida Homeopathic Medical Society. j 

P. & S. N. Y. — College of Physicians and Surgeons N. Y. (Columbia Univ.). 
P. & S. W. D. N. Y. — College of Physicians and Surgeons, Western District N. Y. 
P. C. M.— Philadelphia College of Medicine. (Extinct 1859.) 

P. U. M.— Philadelphia University of Medicine. (Extinct 1880.) , 

P. t*' S. Bait. — College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore. 

R. C. P. S. Eng.^Roval College of Physicians and Surgeons (England). ■« 

R. AI. C— Rush Medical College (Chicago). J 

Rutgers — Rutgers Medical College, N. Y. C. (Extinct 1830.) ■' 

St. T. M. C. & H. Lon. — St. Thomas' Medical College and Hospital (London, Eng.). 
Syracuse Univ. — Syracuse University, Medical Dept. ] 

T. M. C. — Trinity College, Aledical Dept. (Dublin, Ireland). j 

T. S. M. S. — Tri- States Aledical Society of New York, New Jersey and Pennsyl- ( 

vania. t 

Univ. Pa. — LJniversity of Pennsylvania. Medical Dept. (Phila.). 1 

Univ. Mich. — University of Michigan, Medical Dept. (Ann Arbor). (Both Schools.) j 

Univ. Vt. — University of Vermont, Medical Dept. i 

Univ. Buffalo — University of Buffalo. Medical Dept. 

Univ. W. — University of Wooster, Ohio. (E.xtinct 1870.) \ 

Univ. Md. — University of Alaryland, Baltimore. ] 

Univ. Minn. — University of Alinnesota. (Both Schools.) ! 

Univ. N. Y.— University of New York. Aled. Dept. (Consolidated with B. H. M. C.) ' 

Univ. & B. H. M. C— University and Bellevue Hospital Medical College. I 

Univ. Glas. — University of Glasgow, Med. Dept. (Scotland). 



MEDICAL HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY. 599 

U. S. M. C. — United States Medical College, New York City (Eclectic). (Extinct 

1882.) 
V. M. C. — Vermont i\ledical College. 

W. M. C. X. Y. I. — Woman's Medical College of the N. Y. Infirmary. 
\V. M. C. Pa.— Woman's Medical College of Pa. (Phila.). (Extinct 1861.) 
Yale — Yale University, Medical Dept. (New Haven). 



6oo THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXXIV. 

THE SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COUNTY. 

Bv John M. Dolph. 

THE eastern part of the State of New York, including all those 
portions which were settled in the seventeenth century or in the 
early part of the eighteenth, have this common feature in their 
■educational history. The\- all show three periods of development, sepa- 
rate and distinct from each other, and these periods are characterized, 
largely, by the initiative under which the schools were organized and 
Tnaintained. 

The first of these periods, which we may call the colonial period, 
reaches from the first settlement of the country down to the time of the 
Revolutionary War. During this time, about seventy-five years, whatever 
schools there were in Orange County, were organized and supported 
entirely by the settlers in the different neighborhoods, for the instruction 
■of their own children. 

There were no large villages in Orange County at that time. The 
•communities were purely agricultural, with small hamlets scattered here 
and there, such as are found in agricultural districts to-day, and the 
educational advantages were very limited. This period culminated in the 
struggle for independence, during which even these limited advantages 
were almost entirely swept away. 

During the war of the Revolution, the settled portions of the .State were 
overrun by armed bands again and again. The valley of the Hudson was 
harried by the contending armies, back and forth for years, and, even 
where there were no armies, the virulence of the feeling which existed 
between the patriots and the tories, was such that there was little more 
safety for life and property in those localities than there was at the very 
seat of war. 

LInder these circumstances, the schools were generally closed and the 
generation which grew up during the Revolution was largely without 
regular instruction. 

Toward the end of the war, when actual hostilities had largely ceased, 




John M. Dolph. 



SCHOOLS OF ORAXr.E CUlXTV. 6oi 

there ua- a great awakeiiiiiij; throughout the State to the nece»ity 
for more and belter schools than had ever existed heretofore. Miu- 
ghng with those who had enjoyed l)etter educational advantages, in the 
camp and mi the field, had taught the pioneers the value of education, and 
they determined to make it iKJssible for their children to become better 
e(|ui[)ped. educationally, than they had been. 

Private academies, for classical training, were established in the small 
towns and villages and a new period, which we may call the period of 
the private schools, began. 

In response to this sentiment in favor of higher education, the Legisla- 
ture passed the L'niversity law in 1784, establishing- the University of the 
State of Xew York and giving the authority and the aid of the State to 
the academies which had already been established and encouraging the 
establishment of others. The object of this movement by the Legislature. 
as defined in the act establishing the L'niversity. was "to encourage and 
promote education in advance of the common, elementary branches." 

It is a characteristic feature of the thought and feeling of this period 
that the State should give its aid and authority to private institutions for 
secondary mstruction long years before it recognized in any way, its duty 
to the common school and elementary instruction. 

Soon the private academies became so numerous that the opportunity 
for higher education reached to every part of the State. These schools 
did a grand work. For three-quarters of a century they opened up oppor- 
tunities for the ambitious lx)ys and girls whose parents were able to pay 
for their tuition. 

Then, a new idea ap])eared in educational matters — the idea that the 
child of the ])oor man has as much right to the opportunity for educatioii 
as the child of the rich, and that it is the duty of the State to provide thi^ 
opportunity for rich and poor alike. So the [leriod of the free schools 
followed that of the private academies. 

THE COLOXIAF- PERIOD. 

The first settlements in what is now Orange County were made not far 
from the same time in both the eastern and western extremities. The 
countv then included what is now Rockland County, and was bounded on 
the north by the line separating the counties of C)range and Ulster. This 
line ran from the mouth of Murderer's Creek (now Moodna) "westward 



6o2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

into ihe woods as far as the Dt^laware River." These settlements were 
made previous to T/OO, but the time is not absohitely certain with respect 
to either of them. 

In the western part of the county, in what is now the town of Deer- 
park, the first settlers were Dutch and Huguenot families, who came from 
Kingston and New Paltz. In the eastern part the settlers came up the 
Hudson River and consisted almost entirely of English speaking people 
from New York and the Long Island towns. In fact, so close was the 
association with New \'ork, that for some years the New York reports 
included Orange and oin- county had no independent county government. 

In 1693, according to the report of Governor Fletcher, made by Mat- 
thew Clarkson, secretary of the province, there were in "Orange County 
not above twenty families, for the present under the care of New York." 

In 1698 there were reported to Governor Bellomont about thirty fami- 
lies and 140 children in Orange. 

These children were scattered over a wide district, in pioneer homes, 
wdiere luxuries were unknown and where even the necessaries of life were 
difificult of attainment. There were no schools for their instruction at 
this time, nor for a number of years afterward, but it is evident that many 
of them at least did secure the elements of an education, either from their 
parents or from some other source, for we lind them later, in the Dutch 
and Huguenot settlements at any rate, as the men of affairs, prominent 
in the church and in the community, able to read and write and to trans- 
act business in a business-like manner. 

By 1723 a second generation had grown up and new settlers had come 
into the county. In that year 543 children are reported. By this time 
the pioneers had overcome the greater difficulties of the early settlement. 
Their farms yielded abundant supplies and there was opportunity to 
make provision for the instruction of their children. That this oppor- 
tunity was made use of and that some provision was made, in most parts 
of the settlements, for the instruction of the boys and girls, there is little 
reason to doubt. 

The young people of this generation learned ''to read and write and cast 
accounts," at an}^ rate. There w^ere few, if any, schoolhouses, and tradi- 
tion has it that the teachers, like the tailors and the shoemakers, went 
about from house to house, giving instruction in the three R's. 

At this time no text-books had been published in America and books 



SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COUNTY. 603 

(.•f all kind.s were very scarce in the frontier settlements, so that the few 
l)(joks attainable were quite generally provided by the teacher as the tools 
of his profession. The hornbook was used for teaching beginners. This 
was a Hal piece of wood with a handle. On the flat part of this there was 
fastened a piece of horn, scraped thin to make it transparent. A strip of 
paper on which the lesson was written or printed, was placed between the 
horn and the wood. These lessons, protected by the horn, would last a 
long time and could be used by many different pupils. The hornbook was 
used for teaching- the letters, some of the combinations of vowels and con- 
-onants and either the Lord's Prayer or some other verses of easy reading. 
A copy of the Bible was often the only printed book in the school and 
was used as a reading book. 

'J"he material for the instruction in arithmetic, in language and the 
more difficult words in spelling were contained in the teacher's note-book, 
which he had carefully prepared, under the direction of some other 
teacher, similarly equipped. These note-books contained the rules and 
tables in arithmetic, many problems, lists of words for spelling and .<i€lec- 
lions for memorizing. In fact, the teacher's note-b<')ok was his tool-chest, 
and its size and completeness were his recommendations. The posses- 
sion of a Bible, a psalm book, a copy of Dillingham's arithmetic or some 
other English work, and a few books of general literature were sufficient 
10 mark the pioneer pedagogue as a man of great distinction in his pro- 
fession. 

On the hornbook the letters of the alphabet were usually followed by 
the character &. to which were added the Latin words per se and the 
English word and, making &■ her se and. Many of the teachers knew no 
Latin and condensed this into "Ampersand," and this word ha-^ comr down 
to us meaningless, except as we know its origin. 

When the pupils had learned to use the quill pen, which the teacher 
fashioned for them with his penknife, they were provided with a few 
sheets of paper, bound together in strong covers, and they proceeded to 
make, more or less carefully, a note-book like the teacher's. Some of these 
note-books, still preserved, show the character of the work done in these 
early schools. Besides the matters enumerated above some have riddles 
and anecdotes, evidently intended as practice in language. One which I 
have seen, written bv a voung ladv. has the following exercise for punctu- 
ation : 



6o4 THE COUNTY OF ORAXGE. 

"There is a lad}- in this land 
Hath twenty nails upon each hand 
Five and twenty on hands and feet 
And this is true without deceit.'" 

Much attention was paid to penmanship, and the copies prepared by 
the teacher were often as perfect as the engraved copies of the modern 
copy-book. These copies were kept by the pupil and practiced with 
painstaking care. A reproduction of a copy written bv Joseph Dolph. 
with a quill pen of his own make is given to show the skill in lettering 
with which some of these old schoolmasters prepared their copies. 



• "9*m^\ in'i'-^^mi I will ■! ■ iiLpiiiawi i miw^^— 

'i\ lKx^tfani)huimt)|.H]nf0ttitJimi)t- 






it would be of great niterest it wc could know more ol Uk^c pioneers 
of the teacher's profession and their work. Jhit there are few reconls 
of them left. They were generally men. in the early days always men, 
and probablv few of them possessed much learning beyond the rudiments 
which they taught. 

There was no opportunity for higher studies and the few young men 
who desired to enter college had to find a tutor, usually a clergyman, who 
could give him instruction in the preparatory studies. 

\A'hen the first schoolhouse in Orange County was built ] do not know. 
It is possible that there was a building used for this purpose on the Ouas- 
saick, now Newburgh, during the occupancy of the Palatinate colony, pre- 
vious to 1730. It is certain that a building for school purposes was erected 
there soon after 1752, although it is not possible to determine when thi-^ 
school was opened. There is reason to suppose that a teacher was in- 
stalled soon after the transfer of the Glebe lands to Alexander Colden 
and Richard Atherton "as trustees thereof, for the sole use and behoof of 
a minister of the Church of England, as bv law established, and a school- 



SCHOOLS Ol" OK.WCl-: LOLXTV. 605. 

iii;i>U'r. to have tlic care of S(iul> and tlic instruclion of the chihh'cn of the 
iKisj^hhonn^- iiihahitants." This transfer was made in 1752. 

The land known as the (ilcbc was part uf a j^rant of 2190 acres on the 
west side of tiie 1 lud^on River, "he^inning on tlie north side of Ouassaic 
Creek and extending up the Hudson 219 chains and into the woods lOO 
cliains." made for the benefit of a colony of Lutheran, refugees from 
the I'alatinate of the Khine. Iliey Iiad crossed over to England and 
Oueen Anne directed thai this grant l)e made for them, b'rom this tract 
500 acres were set apart, "according to the queen's pleasure," for the 
^i!])l)ort oi their minister and 100 acres for the schoolmaster's lot. Al- 
though the Oueens interest had been manifested in 1708, the patent 
was not issued until 1719, and then the land soon passed into other 
liands. 

After the transfer of the Glebe lands in 1752 as mentioned above, a 
house was built for the schoolmaster, "with a school-room in the rear." 
Little is known of this school. Kutlenljer, in his hi^torv of Orange 
County, gives the names of some of the teachers who were in charge of 
it at difterent times before the Revolution, as follows: Lewis Donveur. 
in 1768; Joseph I'enney. in 1769; Thomas Gregory, in 1773. In 1774 John 
.\athan Hutchinson became the teacher and continued in the school until 
>liortly before his death, which occurred in 1782. 

I here were other schools in various ])arts of the coimtv. previou-^ to 
the Revolution. ( )ne James Carjjenter. a teacher at or near (ioshcn. is 
mentioned in certain records in 1762. 

In the town of Deerpark. as it is now constituted, there were at least 
two school buildings which were erected before the war. One of these 
was located about a mile from the boundary of the citv of I'ort fervis. 
on the east side of the .Xeversink River, and the other where the village 
of Cuddebackville now stands. In this latter building Thomas Kvte 
taught for some time. In 1775 he married Lea Keator and remove<l from 
the valley to the town of Wantage, .Sussex County, Xew Jerse\-, where 
he became a prosperous farmer and where some of his descendants still re- 
main. In 1776 Thomas White, an Knglishman, was emploved as teacher 
in the same di>trict. He came, with hi^ wife KHzabeth. and lived at the 
home of Kzcchiel ( uimaer near the Xeversink River. The -chool was also 
conducted in one of the rooms of the Gumaer house. Later, when the 
Vouse was reconstructed as a fort, for the better ])rotection of the people 



6o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the neighborhood, and several famiHes had gathered there, the school 
was continued in the fort. Mr. White remained throughout the entire 
period of the war, and the children who were so fortunate as to be his 
pupils, enjoyed advantages which very few could have at that time. He 
was a man of some literary attainments, small in stature, but quick and 
active in body and mind. 

Mr. Peter E. Gumaer (1770 to 1869) who was one of his pupils, says 
of him, in his history of Deerpark : "I conclude that Mr. White had 
been taught in one of the best of the common schools of England, and 
in a very perfect manner so far as he had progressed. He was a very 
eloquent reader and could perform the same with an air suitable to the 
nature of the subject on which the reading treated. I have always con- 
sidered him as the equal of the best readers I have ever heard." 

Commenting on the advantages which Mr. White gave his pupils and 
the value of his services to the communit3% Mr. Gumaer says, "This man's 
services have been a greater benefit to the third generation of the descen- 
dants of this neighborhood than those of any other individual, in conse- 
quence of which he ought to be held in remembrance by our descen- 
dants and be incorporated in our history, as the first important originator 
of education among us." 

Mr. White spent his old age on a farm in the town of Wallkill and is 
buried in the churchyard of the Presbyterian church at Otisville. In 
his will he left a sum of money from the proceeds of which there should 
be paid $10 each year, to the minister of each of four dififerent 
churches, for preaching a special sermon, to be known as The White 
Sermon. The four churches benefited are the Dutch Reformeii church 
of Port Jervis, the Congregational church of Middletown, and the Episco- 
pal and Presbyterian churches of Goshen. 

The school on the east side of the Neversink River, near Port Jervis, 
was in session at the time of Brant's raid on Tuesday, July 20. 1779. 
The Indians and Tories under Thayandanega, or, as the whites called 
him, Joseph Brant, came down the Delaware valley and separated 
into two divisions. One party followed the river and the other crossed 
the point of land between the two rivers, keeping near the base of the 
mountain and crossed the Neversink near the old Indian burying ground. 
The object of the raid, as stated by Brant in his report to the commanding 
officer, was to secure booty, especially beef cattle. But it would appear 



.slHuuLS of orange county. 607 

•from the method of attack that there was another object, tliat of capturing 
or kilhng Major Decker. 

The attack was made .sinuihaiieuu>l\- uijon the iiome of Major Decker 
and upon the farms four miles down the river across the State hne, in 
New Jersey. The men of the Major's family were away attending a 
funeral and the house, although it was surrounded by a stockade, was 
easily taken and burned. It is probable that the most of the men were at- 
tending the funeral when the attack was made. This funeral, or at least 
the burial, was held at the meeting house of the Dutch Reformed church, 
which stood on East Main street, near the culvert over which the Erie 
Railroad crossed that street. This also was burned later in the same 
raid. One of these bands came upon the school house with the school 
in session. The teacher, Jeremiah Van Auken, grandson of James 
\'an Auken, who was the tirst magistrate of the Minisink region, was 
killed and scalped and the children scattered. According to the deposi- 
tion of Mehary Owen, one of the Tories who accompanied Brant on this 
raid, that chieftain had issued strict orders that no women nor children 
should be injured. This deposition was taken by Henry VVisner, Esq., 
at Goshen, and, while there is little dependence to be put upon the word 
of such a renegade, there is no proof that any of the children were 
Jiarmed. 

The story so often told and sometimes discredited, that iirant himself 
came upon the party that had killed Van Auken, and put paint upon the 
clothing of the children to protect them, is too well authenticated to 
be rejected. It is more than tradition. 

There are persons still living who have heard the story told by those 
who were there, on that day. Among others, Margaret Decker, daughter 
of Major Johannes Decker, horn in 1770, was there at school that day. 
She afterward married P»enjamin Carpenter and left many descendants. 
She told the story many times to children and grandchildren, substantially 
as it has been told by the people of the valley since 1779. Several of 
these grandchildren are still living and agree in all the main points of 
the story as she told it to them. This is only one of many cases where 
the story is a family tradition. 

Peter E. Gumaer was a lad nine years old, at the time this occurred. 
He was a neighbor and playfellow of those children in the (^ther district. 
Avho were in school that day. He grew up with them and knew them 



6o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

intimately all their lives, for he outlived them all, dying beyond the mid- 
dle of his ninety-ninth year. In his account of Brant's raid, given with 
slight alterations in Eager's History of Orange County, he tells the story 
substantially as it is told by the descendants of these children. The addi- 
tion of a brush and the color of the paint are touches not found in the orig- 
inal story. 

This sketch of the schools in colonial times is fragmentary and unsatis- 
factory, but, there is so little that has been preserved concerning them, 
that no account can be other than fragmentary. 

THE PERIOD OF THE PRIVATE ACADEMIES. 

The movement for the establishment of schools of higher grade began 
with the people themselves. They knew what they wanted and pro- 
ceeded tO' obtain it in the most direct way. The method was much the 
same all over the State. The farmers and other well-to-do people of a 
considerable section subscribed the money necessary to put up a building 
and to provide the furniture and equipment needed. Then, when the 
building was ready for occupancy, it was leased to some teacher, whose 
compensation was the fees for tuition, paid by the students who attended. 
More than 300 of these institutions were established in the State. 

In this movement for improved schools, the county of Orange was one 
of the first in the State to act. There were two other schools of this type 
which were incorporated before The Farmers' Hall Academy in Goshen, 
but the incorporation was not until several years after these schools had 
been in operation. The Clinton Academy at Easthampton and the Eras- 
mus Hall Academy in Brooklyn, were both chartered by the Board of 
Regents in 1787, while the Goshen school was not chartered until April 
first, 1790. 

The building for the Farmers' Hall was erected in 1773 and the school 
was maintained as a school for instruction in academic subjects during 
the Revolution, with some interruptions. 

To this school, in 1781, there came a man who was to do more for 
the cause of education in this county than any who had preceded him. 
Noah Webster had graduated from Yale in 1778 and had begun the study 
of law at Hartford. The invasion of New York from the north, by Bur- 
goyne, called for the services of every able bodied man, and young Web- 



SCHOOL:^ ui' URANGE COUXTY. 609 

■^tcr luarclK'd to ilu- valley ni the- Mohawk, as a iirivalc in his father's com- 
pany of Connecticut militia. After the campaign was over, he returned to 
the study of law and was admitted to the bar in Hartford in 1781. 
Insteail of waiting at Hartford for a practice, he decided to enter the 
profession of teaching and probably came to Goshen in the fall of tlie 
same year. 

The following letter of introduction, written by Henry Wisncr, Esq., 
a magistrate of Goshen, would seem to indicate that Mr. Webster was not 
a new comer in Goshen at that time and he had probably completed his 
first year in the schor)! when it was written: 

Goshen, X. V.. August 26th, 1782. 
Sir: 

The bearer, Mr. Xoah Webster, has taught a grammar school for some time 
past, in this place, much to the satisfaction of his employers. 

He is now doing some business in the literary way, which, in the opinion of good 
judges, will be of great service to posterity. He. being a stranger in Xew Jersey, 
may stand in need of the assistance of some gentlemen with whom you are ac- 
quainted. He is a young gentleman whose moral as well as political character is 
such a? will render him worthy of your notice. 

Any favor which you may do him will be serving the public and accepted as a 
favor done your friend and very humble servant, 

Henry Wisner. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

During the preceding year. Prof. Webster had prepared the manuscript 
of the first part of his "Grammatical Institute of the English Language," 
the first text-book for the use of schools published in this country. This 
first part was the Webster Speller, not only the first school book published 
in this country, but also the most popular one. 

^Ir. Webster's object in leaving Goshen at this time, was to show these 
manuscripts to people acquainted with the educational situation through- 
out the cr)nntr\- and to ^rct their opniions on the probable demand for the 
work. 

lie visited I'hiladelphia and met a nuniher of the members of Congress, 
among whom was James Madison, afterward president of the United 
States. Mr. Madison was himself, a thorough linguist and deeply inter- 
ested in the subject of schools. He also showed much interest in Mr. 
Webster and his proposed work. From Philadelphia. Mr. Webster went 
to Princeton and showed his work to the Rev. S. S. Smith, then a profes- 
sor and afterward president of Princeton College. Everywhere the pro- 



6io THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ject was enthusiastically received and the young author returned to 
Goshen, greatly encouraged to complete his series of texts and to pub- 
lish it. 

As we have already stated, no text books had been published in America. 
Moreover, at this time a widespread awakening to the importance of edu- 
cation was manifest throughout the country and the demand for books 
suitable for the instruction of the children, both in the elementary schools 
and in the academies was great. Accordingly, Prof. Webster returned 
to Goshen, continued his work there another year, during which he re- 
vised and completed his manuscripts, and in 1783, returned to Hartford 
and began their publication. The Grammatical Institution of the English 
Language was published in three volumes. The first was the speller, the 
second the grammar, and the third, the reader. 

They seem poor and printed with wretched type, when compared with 
the workmanship of modern text-books, but these little volumes, produced 
by an Orange County teacher, while teaching in its earliest academy, were 
most enthusiastically received and the demand for them taxed the capacity 
of the publishers to the fullest extent. 

The speller, the first part published, was an immediate success. In fifty 
years, about twenty-five million copies were sold, and for a part of 
this tune the sales exceeded a million copies a year. The royalty on this 
book was one cent a copy, and, for many years this royalty yielded the 
author a very comfortable income. The other parts of the work never had 
so large a demand as the speller, but the reception accorded them and the 
demand for them which followed, induced the young author to devote his 
entire time to authorship, so that his two years in the Farmers' Hall 
Academ\ , at Goshen, comprised his entire work as a teacher. 

What other teachers conducted this school before the date of its incor- 
poration under the university law, is not definitely known. The charter 
was issued April ist "in the fourteenth year of American independence," 
or 1790. The school, however, had been in operation at least sixteen 
years, before this date, and ten years before the university law was passed. 

The first principal of the school, after its incorporation was Benjamin 
Carpenter, who remained only one year, and then removed to the Mini- 
sink valley where he established a ferry over the Delaware and gave his 
name to the village of Carpenter's Point. A Mr. Minor succeeded him 
and he in turn, was followed by John K. JoHne, who was said to have 



SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COL'NT\'. 6ii 

been a soldier of furiune, ami, as such, had visited the Spanish Main and. 
several of the Central and South American Slates. He was not a young 
man at the time of assuming- the principalship and tradition tells many 
stories of his eccentricities. He had charge of the school for several years 
and when he retired from the principalship, he remained in Goshen, living 
at one of the hotels until the time of his death. By a benevolent fiction he 
was supposed to deliver a course of lectures each year. The tickets were 
purchased by those who had been his pupils and by others who were 
benevolently inclined, and the proceeds were generally sufficient to defrav 
his expenses, but few of the lectures were flelivered, and these to 
very small audiences. Occasionally he woidd fill an engagement to teach 
for a few weeks, away from his beloved Goshen, but he could not be per- 
suaded to stay away long. He taught at different times, in the Minisink 
valley, in what is now the town of Deerpark, but tor shcjrt [)eriods onlv. 
He was erratic, leaving without notice, and returning when he pleased, 
and always going back to Goshen when he had earned money enough to 
relieve his present necessities. 

There he would sit in his chair, on the porch of the hotel, always 
ready to tell of the many and varied experiences of his life to any who 
cared to listen. 

One dav he ilid not respond to the call of the gong which announced 
that dinner was ready, and they found him, sitting in his chair, dead. 
He had ilicl without a struggle and imnoticed. sitting in his accustomed 
place. 

Some time previous to 1820, the l'"emale Academy was established and 
became a part of the institution, controlled by the same board of trus- 
tees as the l"armer>' Hall. William Ewen was the first j^rincipal in this 
department. Among the many teachers who had charge of this school 
during the earlier halt of the nineteenth centur\- were: Xathan Stark. 
Horace Sweezy. \ ictor M. W'atkins, Rev. P>. ^^ Mor>e. Havid E. I'owler, 
Stephen D. Rross and Nathaniel W'ebl). 

The last mentioned. Nathaniel \\\])1). became ])rincipal of l)ot!i de- 
partments about 1833. Mr. Webb's influence, nor onl\- in this school. Inn 
also in the educational interests of the entire cnnity. was such that he 
is W(jrth\- of more than a cin'sorv notice in an\- accoinit of educational 
matters in this county. 

He wa- a gradnatv of I'ln'on ('olU-^r and h.ad oanght ~-nutv of the 



6i2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

enthusiasm of Dr. Nott in the cause of education. He had prepared 
for the ministry, but, on the completion of his studies at Union, he found 
his health so impaired that he had to give up work and spend some 
time in the South, recovering his lost vitality. He never became robust, 
but enjoyed a fair degree of health and was an indefatigable worker. 

After leaving the principalship of Farmers' Hall, Mr. Webb estab- 
lished a boarding school for young ladies at Goshen, which had, for 
many years, a wide reputation and patronage. It was noted for its thor- 
oughness, its high moral tone, and for the real culture of its graduates. 
This school, which was later known as the Goshen Female Seminary, 
under the efficient management of Professor Webb, became one of the 
best schools of its kind in the State, and sent out many cultured women 
into the homes and schools of this section. 

In connection with his school work, Mr. W>bb was also one of the 
proprietors and editorial writers of the Democrat and IVIiig, a local paper 
published in Goshen, and continued his connection with that paper until 
the time of his death, which occurred in 1855. As an editorial writer for 
a political paper, he was so fair and impartial that he frequently became 
the trusted friend and adviser of both sides of a political controversy and 
his judgment had great weight on all political questions. As a teacher; 
as a man of affairs in both the social and political world ; as a Christian 
gentleman, interested in every good work in the community in which he 
lived and as an exemplar of true living and Christian manhood, he was 
a worthy example of what the teacher should be in any community. 

Various other teachers as principals and instructors carried on the work 
of this school until well on in the second half of the nineteenth century, 
when, like most of the other private academies, it was replaced by the 
public school. 

Whatever the facts may be concerning the priority of the establishment 
of Clinton Academy and the Farmers' Hall, there seems to be no doubt 
that the Montgomery Academy, another Orange County institution, in- 
corporated in 1792, was the fourth of these schools in the State. 

The progressive character of the people of our county is shown by 
this fact, that two of the first four academies of the State should have 
been founded by them. The subscription list for the Montgomery Aca- 
demy is dated in 1787 and was probably circulated and signed at that 
time. The village of Montgomery was only a small hamlet in a farming 



SCHOOLS OF ORAXGE COL'XTV. 613 

coinmuiiity. The people were, not wealthy, but they were in earnest in 
their determination to secure for their children the advantages of a good 
school. 

Two hundred and seventy-seven names appear on the list, almost all 
of them heads of families, residing within eight or ten miles of the vil- 
lage. , The amounts were small individually, but the sum ol)tained was 
sufficient for the modest beginning which they were to make. The trustees 
.appointed by the subscribers, to take charge of the undertaking, were 
thirteen in number and were generally the most prominent and intelligent 
men of the section. 

The story of how tliese farmers helped themselves to what they wanted 
in school accommodations is told by both Eager and Ruttenber in their 
histories of Orange County. This story illustrates so well the method of 
the founding of these schools in rural communities throughout the State 
that 1 quote from Ruttenber the story, entire : 

"The trustees purchased a frame, already put up, several miles distant, 
as they could get it for some small sum, made a frolic to which the farmers 
came with their teams and carted it down to the village. This was but 
the work of a day, in these patriotic and freewill limes. So, at very little 
expense, the buikling was entirely put up and finished. 

The teacher they wished to employ (the Rev. Alexander Miller, of New 
Jersey;, was married, had a family and a horse and could not come 
unless the family and the horse could be accommodated. So, the trustees 
redoubled their exertions, built a kitchen adjoining the academy, put up 
a stable and permitted the Reverend Mr. Miller to live on the ground 
Hoor. They tendered him £80 for the first year, and, after that, all he 
could make. This otTer was accepted and the Reverend Mr. Miller be- 
came the first principal of the new institution. The tuition fees paid by 
the pupils varied from £2 to £5 a year, according to the subjects studied." 
The pound in New York currency was $2.50. 

The old building was used about twenty years and was then replaced 
by a substantial brick building, in which the old academy maintained its 
existence for many years, after most of the private schools had been 
absorbed by the public school system. In 1891. after more than a hun- 
dred years of e.xistence as a private school, it became the academic <ie- 
partment of the Montgomery public schools. 

'Hie Xewburgh Acadenn wa> projected by the Reverend Mr. Spierin. 



6i4 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

pastor of the Episcopal church. After some delay a building was erected 
and a school opened "for the instruction of youth in the Greek and Latin 
languages and in other branches of literature." The peculiar relation of 
this school to the Church of England and its control by the trustees of 
the glebe, seem to have been a source of trouble. In 1804, a public 
meeting of the inhabitants of the original patent was held and nine trustees 
were elected "to take charge of the school in the academy.'' The new 
trustees evidently did take charge, for the school was incorporated under 
the University of the State of New York in 1806 as "The Newburgh 
Academy." This school had a long and successful career. Many of its 
teachers were men of learning and ability and the school enjoyed a repu- 
tation second to none in this section of the State. It is impossible to give 
its full history or to name all of its teachers. Mr. Ruttenber mentions 
Samuel Nicholson as principal in 1799, James Larrimore in 1802 and a 
long line of successors. The academy continued its work as a private 
school until the special act establishing the free schools of Newburgh 
was passed in 1852, when it became a part of the public school system of 
the village. 

The \Vashington Academx'. of Florida, had its inception in a meeting 
of the inhabitants of that village held on February 14th, 1809. The meet- 
ing was enthusiastic and decided to erect a school building and establish 
a school "for the instruction of the young." 

A two-story brick building was erected, but it was not conducted as 
a private academy long. When, in response to the law of 1812, the towns 
were divided into school districts, in 181 3, the building became the school 
house of District No. 15, of the town of Warwick. 

Samuel S. Seward was one of the first movers for the establishment 
of this school and was a member of its first board of trustees. His son, 
W'illiam H. Seward, afterward governor of the State of New York, 
United States Senator and Secretary of State under President Lincoln, 
was one of its early pupils. 

Mr. Seward was never satisfied with the fate of the Washington 
Academy and later gave a site and erected a building for a private school 
which was known as the S. S. Seward Institute. 

He left $20,000 in his will for a permanent endowment of this school. 
For nearly half a century it was maintained as a high class boarding 
school. The endowment and the active interest of the Seward family 



SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COl'NTY. 615 

kept ii in opcraiion long after most of the schools of its kind had been 
closed by the competition of the public school. But in 1891, it was turned 
over to the board of education of tlic villaj^e of Florida and it has, 
since that time, been the academic department of the Florida public 
schools. 

The \\ allk'll Academy, ■Middletown, like a number of other places 
along the line of the Erie Railroad, owes its initial development to that 
road. In 1840 it was a small village. The people were alive to the inter- 
ests of their children, however, and in 1841, they organized a company 
with 115 stockholders, for the purpose of establishing an academy to pro- 
vide the children of the village with better opportunities for education 
than could be had in the district school. The result of this movement 
was the building of a school house and the establishment of the Wallkill 
Academy. 

The Reverend Fhineas Robinson was the first teacher, and the school 
took high rank as a classical or grammar school from the first. 

He was succeeded by Patrick jNIcGregor, who was principal for five 
years. Henry Freeman was in charge for a like period, and the Reverend 
P. Teller Babbitt was in charge for a year and half. Then D. Kerr Bull 
became principal and continued in charge of the academy until it became 
a part of the public school system of the village of Middletown. at its or- 
ganization under special act of the legislature in 1867. 

The C liesler Academy was chartered by the regents of the university 
on February 27th. 1844. The first principal was William Bross, who was 
assisted by his brother, Stephen D. Bross, mentioned above as one of the 
principals of F'armers' Hall Academy at Goshen. 

William Bross prepared for college at Mil ford. Pa., and graduated from 
Williams College in 1838. He taught in several places before going to 
Chester, and, in 1848, he went to Chicago and engaged in newspaper work. 
For a number of years, he was president of the Chicago Tribune Company 
and he was lieutenant-governor of the State of Illinois from 1865 ^^ 
1869. 

The Reverend Phineas Robinson, who was the first principal of Wall- 
kill .Academy at Middletown, was in charge of this school for eight years, 
and Edward Orton, who w-as later a professor in the Ohio State Univer- 
■^ity, was principal for six years. Like the others, the Chester Academy 
became, later, a part of the public school system, and the old academv 



6i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

building was used for public scliool purposes until it was burned in 1905. 
A new building has been erected to take its place and has been in use 
since September, 1907. 

The Warwick Institute was organized in 1852. The building was 
erected in the spring of 1853 ^^^ the school opened the same year. D. F. 
Drew was engaged as principal but left during the first year, and was suc- 
ceeded by William A. Carter. The institute and its property were turned 
over to the board of education in 1868, that board agreeing to forever 
maintain a school for instruction in the higher studies. 

The West Point Military Academy. — This school, while in the county, 
is not of it. It is the United States government school for training officers 
for the command of its armies. 

The Military Academy is located on a government reservation at West 
Point, one of the most picturesque and beautiful spots on the Hudson. 

The establishment of such a school was recommended by Washington 
in his last message to Congress and it is known that even from the time 
of the Revolution, West Point had been looked upon by him as a most 
suitable place for its location. 

The recommendation of Washington was acted upon and some pro- 
vision made for the instruction of cadets, but it was not until after the war 
of 1812 had shown the necessity for such training, that the military 
academy was fully established. 

From that time to the present it has grown in importance and efficiency. 
Many millions of dollars have been spent in utilizing the natural advan- 
tages of the reservation and in providing the equipment needed. The 
reservation contains nearly two hundred buildings of various kinds, and 
its attractiveness on account of its natural scenery, its buildings and its 
well-kept lawns, make it a popular place for tourists. 

The academies which I have mentioned, with the exception of the 
military academy, which is brought in here simply because of its location, 
were of a semi-public character. While not maintained by taxation, they 
were organized bv popular movements and existed only for the benefit 
of the people. 

There have been many other schools in the county, which were entirely 
private in character. Many of these have been important factors in the 
progress of education in our county, and have done much to uphold a high 
standard of school work, but we shall be able to mention onlv those which 



SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COUNTY. 617 

now exist and wliicli liold cliarter relations with the educational system 
of the State. 

THE I'EKIODOF TllL FREE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

There had been elementary schools in most of the scattered c*jiiiiiiuni- 
ties of the county before the Revolution, as we have seen, and they con- 
tinued after that war, increasing in numbers and in efficiency. The aca- 
<^lemics provided better teachers for those schools, and they also stimu- 
lated the children in them to prepare themselves for the higher studies 
of the academies. They were public schools also, but they were entirely 
dependent upon local initiative and supported entirely by the people of 
the neighborhoods in which they were maintained. The .State had shown 
its interest in secondary education liy the establishment of the university, 
in 1784. by chartering the academies and by grants of money in aid of 
these schools, but it was not until 1795 that it showed any interest in the 
common schools. 

In that year, acting on the recommendation of Governor Clinton, the 
legislature appropriated the sum of £20,000 ($50,000) a year, for the 
succeeding five years, "for the encouragement of the common 
schools." 

The act provided, also, for the election of two commissioners of schools, 
in each town, of the counties of the State, to supervise the schools of the 
town and to make arrangements for the proper distribution of this grant. 
The chaotic condition of the schools, with no system of records and ac- 
count^ ; and, in some instances, the local pride and resentment, occasioned 
by this State interference in what was considered an entireh' local institu- 
tion, rendered the just apportionment of this fund difficidt, and, after 
three years it was abandoned. 

In 1805 the State began the accumulation of a fund, the interest of 
which should be used to aid the public schools. This fund, to which 
additions are made from year to year, now amounts to considerably over 
$4,000,000. and the United States deposit fund, an overflow of the treas- 
ury of the United States, distributed to the States in 1836-7, which has 
been reserved for school purposes, amounts to a like sum. By the laws 
of 1812. the State definitely assmned control of the public schools. During 
the succeeding year. 1813, under the provisions of this act. the townships, 
in all the counties of the State, were divided into school districts and pub- 



6i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lie schools were established, supported partly by State aid and the balance 
made up by a rate bill, an amount assessed upon the parents of the chil- 
dren attending-, proportioned upon the number of days they were m 
attendance. 

The districts, as formed in Orange County, in 1813, have not greatly 
changed since that date. The rate bill was continued as the method of 
school support until the passage of the Free School Act, in 1853, and, in 
many places it was continued until 1867 when it was finally abolished and 
the schools, supported entirely by public funds, became free to the chil- 
dren of rich and poor alike. 

The supervision of the public schools by township commissioners, under 
the law of 1795, and abandoned in most of the towns in 1798, was restored 
by the law of 181 2, and thereafter, until 1844, what supervision of the 
schools there was, in the various towns, was vested in three commission- 
ers and three inspectors. In 1844, the supervision of the schools was 
vested in a town superintendent of schools and so continued until the 
office of school commissioner in the assembly districts, was created in 
1856. Since that time, the work of inspection and supervision has been 
performed by these officers. 

The commissioners of the two assembly districts of Orange County, 
since 1856, have been in the first assembly district, George K. Smith, 
David A. Morrison, Charles N. Gedney, Jonathan Silliman. James M. 
Moneli, Charles Rivenburg and Gecrge W. Flood. In the second assembly 
district. George N. Green, Harvey H. Clark, John J. Barr. Benjamin F. 
Hill, John W. Slauson, Asa Morehouse, Oliver N. Goldsmith, William 
H. Shaw, Ira L. Case, Willard M. Clark, William P. Kaufmarm. 

Since the operation of the free school act began, the educational 
progress of the county has been continuous.- The enrollment has in- 
creased with the population. The average daily attendance has increased 
more rapidly than the enrollment, and the efficiency of the schools, as in- 
dicated by the number of the institutions which are doing academic or 
high school work together with the number of pupils of high school 
grade, shows the most marked advancement. The number of such schools 
in our county has increased from half a dozen to twentv-two and the 
percentage of high school pupils to the enrollment has increased from less 
than one per cent, to about eight per cent. 

To demonstrate more clearly this progress of the schools. I have pre- 



SCHOOLS OF ORANGE COUNT V. 619 

pareil a table showing the population, enrollment, average attendance and 
high school pupils for each decade of the free schools. 

Takle Showing Proorkss of the Schools hv Decades. 

Population 

Enrollment 

Average attendance . . 
Jn high schools 



1860 


1870 


1^80 


1890 


1900 


1006 


63,812 


80,002 


88,220 


97.859 


103,859 


108,267 


12,750 


18,210 


19,015 


17,955 


18,302 


18.193 


Xo data 


8.396 


10.262 


10,963 


12,868 


13,617 


Xo data 


129 


298 


320 


843 


1,369 



The schools doing high school work in K)o6 were the following: 

Principal. No. of H. S. 
Pupils. 

Xevvburgh High School William H. Doty 412 

Middletown High School James F. Tuthill 179 

Port Jervis Higii School Charles A. Benedict 235 

Walden High School A. H. Courtenav 61 

Highland Falls High School S. H. Mcllroy 60 

Warwick Institute High School Frank M. Edson 56 

Chester High School Frank J. Squires 52 

Cornwall-on-the-Hudson High School E. Everitt Cortright 45 

Cjoshen High School Montgomery C. Smith 44 

S. S. Seward Institute, Florida Levi R. Tubbs 40 

Cornwall High School Herman C. Woodworth . . 30 

Montgomery High School F. W. Whitney 25 

Monroe Union School Orville Eichenberg 24 

Central Valley Union School T. L. McKnight 7 

Ami the following private sciiools : 

Principal. No. of H. S, 
Pupils. 
X. "N". Militarj- Academy, Cornwall-on-the- 
Hudson Sebastian C. Jones 67 

( iarr Institute, Goshen Rose Sanders 27 

Ursuline Academic School, Middletown Motlur M. Lucy 17 

St. Mary's Academy, Xcwhurgh 11 

The three cities, Newburgh. Middletown and Port Jervis, with 4O per 
cent, of the populatiim nf ihe cf'un.ty. furnished 52 per cent, of the aver- 
age attendance an<l nearly 65 per cent, of the high school pupils. The 
school systems C)f these cities are well organized and the schools are thor- 
oughly graded, and rank high among the ■schools of the State. 

The Ni£WHik(;H Sctiooi.s. — The school system oi the city v\ Xewburgh 
was established in 1852 by si)ecial act of the legislature, before the general 
free >«clu>i)l law was passed. At that time, sixteen teacher^ were employed 



620 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. • 

and about 500 pupils were enrolled. By 1865, when Newburgh became 
a city, and had a population of 13,905, the average attendance had in- 
creased to nearly 1,200, and thirty-one teachers were employed. Since 
that time, the growth in population has been gradual and the schools 
have more than kept pace with that growth. 

New buildings have been erected from time to time to provide room 
for the constantly increasing enrollment, until there are now seven build- 
ings with sittings for more than 4,000 pupils. These buildings are all 
fully equipped with the modern improvements and all the appliances 
needed for the most efficient school work. 

There are 109 teachers employed and the enrollment for 1906 was 4,230. 

The city is doing more in the line of manual training than is done in 
any other part of the county, A five years' course is given the boys who 
reach the higher grammar grades and the girls, from the third to the 
sixth year, are taught to sew. 

The following superintendents have had charge of the schools of the 
city since 1852 : 

" Nathaniel Jones 1852-57 

Hugh Banks 1857-59 

Dr. R. V. K. Alontfort 1859-63 

E. M. Ruttenber 1863-64 

Hiram A. Jones 1864-72 

Dr. R. V. K. Montfort 1872-83 

John Miller 1883-87 

Dr. R. V. K. Montfort 1887-1900 

James !M. Crane 1900 

The Middletown. Schools. — The school system of the city of Mid- 
dletown was organized under a special act of the legislature passed in 
1867. At that time, about 500 pupils were enrolled in all the schools. 
The schools have grown with the growth of the city, making necessary 
the erection of new buildings at frequent intervals. 

There are now eight school buildings, all built of brick, well distributed 
for the convenience of the pupils attending and excellently adapted to 
the needs of the city. The new high school building is the finest and most 
costly school building in the county. Sixty-two teachers were employed 
in 1906, and the number of pupils enrolled was 2,557. 

The following named gentlemen have been the superintendents of the 
schools since their organization : 



SCHOOLS OF ORAXGE COUNTY. 621 

A. v. X. Powelson 1867-69 

A. II. l-"arnliam 1869-70 

Hiram Warren 1870-74 

Hcnrv R. San ford i874-8«; 

Gcorec T. Cluirch 1885-86 

A. B. Willmr 1886-91 

James v. Tntliill 1801 

The Middletuwn schools have a repuiaiion for excellenl work and the 
school rooms, especially those in the new high school, are models of con- 
venience and furnishing. 

Tjiii L'uKi Ji:k\is Schuuls. — The village of Port Jervis came into being 
soon after the completion of the Delaware and Hudson Canal and took 
its name from that of the engineer in charge of that work. 

It was only a small hamlet, however, until the building of the Erie 
Railroad, near the middle of the last century. In 1850, there were only 
270 children of school age in the district. The coming of the railroad 
caused a raj^id increase in population and by 1853, the date of the free 
school act, the number had increased to 562. It was not until 1862 that 
the district was organized under the general law as Union Free School 
District Number One of the town of Deerpark. By T.%r). tlie nnml)er of 
children of school age had increased to 1,816. 

The high school was organized in 1863, with David Deatty as teaclier. 
This school was admitted under the Regents in 1867. There are fnrty- 
nine teachers employed and an enrollment of over 2,000 pupils. 

There are six buildings used for school purposes, three of them sub- 
stantial brick buildings, constructed within the past few years. A very 
noticeable feature of the schools in Port Jervis is the large enrollment 
in projx>rtion to the population. More than 20 per cent, of the entire popu- 
lation was registered in the public schools, and more than one-ninth of this 
registration was in the high school in 1906. 

The superintendents of the schools, in Port Jervis. since their organi- 
zation in 1862. have been: 

K. W. Manning i.^ti_ ii^-i 

David Bcatty ■ 1863-65 

Isaac M. Wellington 1865-69 

I-'(l\vard A. Kingslev 1869-70 

.•\. R. Wilbur " 1870-83 

F. W. Best •. 1883-84 

J. M. Dolph 1884 



622 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



By the courtesy of School Commissioners George W. Flood, of the 
First Assembly District and William P. Kaufmann of the Second, and 
of the Superintendents of schools in Newburgh and Middletown, I am 
permitted to present the principal facts of the school reports for the year 
1907. 

Abstract of School Reports for 1907. 



'/. 


J 





ti 


1 


u 




'oc 






<u 




Ml 














3 


H 


^^P ^ 


"o 


<6 


W « 
(U 0^ 


^ 


u 


^ tj 




<u c 


300 


' ' 


•_ -^ 


z. •— 


iz: 


bcjS 




... 


^ 






a - 


r- *—■ ^ 


3 


•^ 




.h 



> 


i<^ 


■Ji 


:z 


U 


[2. 


< 


K 


7 


no 


5.773 


4,257 


3,291 


$ioi,577-97 


8 


64 


2.648 


2,440 


1,962 


65,457-29 


10 


16 


463 


503 


299 


8,188.70 


~ 


26 


1,014 


971 


704 


23,54176 


T r 


13 


-^76 


305 


230 


4,98317 


6 


/ 


^49 


230 


'45 


3,368.36 


3 


19 


843 


730 


593 


17,666.24 


^ 


U 


491 


515 


360 


10,653.14 


13 


34 


1,337 


1,304 


852 


24,59310 


13 


19 


753 


724 


447 


12,228.41 


8 


II 


421 


352 


189 


4,911.79 


5 


14 


461 


461 


365 


19,549.67 


14 


60 


2,358 


2,369 


1,754 


45,55398 


II 


20 


701 


691 


463 


14,847.64 


/ 


"■ 


148 


^73 


79 


2,717-39 


8 


10 


262 


335 


185 


5. 181.39 


^ 


6 


2^0 


250 


120 


2,952.37 


6 


16 


618 


615 


416 


17,140.34 


18 


18 


498 


511 


300 


7,175-70 


10 


10 


276 


299 


171 


4.204.28 


18 


36 


1,336 


1,374 


950 


28,387-84 


5 


9 
■ 539 


314 


300 


221 
14,086 


6,618.42 


98 


21.490 


19,707 


$431,499-39 



Newburgh City 

Middletown City 

Blooming Grove Town . 

Cornwall 

Crawford 

Hamptonburgh 

Highland 

IMonroe 

]\Iontgomery '" 

Newburgh " 

New Windsor " . 

Chester " . 

Deerpark " 

Goshen '' 

Greenville " 

Minisink " 

Mount Hope " 

Tuxedo " 

Wallkill •' . 

Wawayanda " 

Norwich 

Woodburv '" . 




Rev. Francis Washburn. 



CHURCHES OF ORANGE COLXTV. <>2.^ 

CHAPTER XXX\ . 

THE CHURCHES OF ORAXGE COUNTY. 

Uv Re\". Fkaxcis Wasiii^kx. 

THE prevailing religion of Orange County is still nominally Chris- 
tian, differentiated in forms of worship and principles of faith. 
As yet few representatives of other religions have formed any 
settlement within its boundaries. 

The organized relrgious bodies are numerous and strong, exercising 
still against many adverse agencies a controlling influence over the lives 
of the people. Those first established in the county in the Colonial epoch 
still maintain the predominancy they then secured. Although the 
confessions of faith of some of them have been modified somewhat, yet 
they all with a few minor exceptions hold to the creeds Apostolic and 
Nicene. With more general diffusion of education amongst the peo])lc 
has come to prevail a iiiore genial and less dogmatic form of enuncia- 
ting the great truths of the Gospel of Christ. The churches or associa- 
tions of religious people are becoming more conservative of all that is 
good and wholesome for human beings both here and hereafter. 

Faith in the parental love of God the Father, and brotherly love of 
Christ are being taught by the Church of Christ as the mother of the 
world's children and the bride of Christ, whose spirit is .more and more 
the atmosphere of a heavenly home for us all. The ministry of the 
church is coming to be a ministry over us everywhere in all places and at 
all times. She is extending her work of sponsorship into every sphere 
of human activity. And the time seems to be rapidly approaching when 
she will guard us all from the cradle to the grave from every agency of 
ill that would deprive us of the love and approbation of God. 

The different religious bodies bearing the name of Christian are all 
seeking the good of humankind, animated by the same spirit which actu- 
ated the Christ when He went to Golgotha and when He ascended ai 
Olivet. They are agreed in their aim and are united in their sym])athy. 
They work in agreement and will not contend with each other. Christian 
charity to-day is prevailing to the elimination of denominati(^nal ])ride. 



624 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The Christians of Orange County are becoming assimilated to the 
spirit of those on whom the Holy Ghost fell in the day of Pentecost. 
For years since the earliest settlement of this country they have been 
known as Presbyterians, Lutherans, Reformed Dutch, Episcopalians, Ro- 
man Catholics, Baptists, Methodists, Quakers, etc., and are still connected 
with organizations bearing these names, but they are coming to bear in 
their membership the same characteristic devotion to humanity and God. 
We cannot be to-day what our ancestors were who came from Europe. 
They were unaware of a vast deal we know. Their knowledge of the 
world and its peoples was infinitely little, ours is infinitely large. They 
came and settled here amid dense forests and interpreted God's word by 
and through their limited experience, but God's word to them was a 
sealed book ; they could not interpret it at all. They came from different 
countries of Western Europe, and brought with them their theories re- 
ligious and secular. The Dutch came to the mouth of a great stream 
that ran north, and settled on an island, and called their settlement New 
Amsterdam. Some of them sailed up this great river, now known as the 
Hudson, and established homes in the neighborhood of the present city 
of Kingston, at the confluence of two streams, known to us as the Wall- 
kill and Rondout. Their expression of the Christian religion exists in 
their descendants to-day as the Reformed, known to me in my boyhood 
as the Dutch Reformed. The churches of this denomination in Orange 
County owe their origin to the missionary zeal of Rev. Petrus' Vas and 
the Rev. George W. Marcius, pastors of the church at Kingston. The 
Montgomery Reformed Church was first organized as the German Re- 
formed Church of the Wallkill in 1782. The JVarzvick Church was or- 
ganized October 24, 1694, at Orangetown. In 1764 its congregation 
united with the Presbyterians, and remained thus united until 1803, when 
the congregation determined that as the deed of the property was to the 
Presbyterians it should continue to be held by them as trustees, while the 
Reformed Dutch Consistory should control the spiritual interests. At 
the Dresent time there are ten churches of this tvpe in the cotmty. as 
follows : 

Location. Pastor. Membership. 

Newburgh A. T. Brook 308 

Walden W. W. Schomp 420 

Montgomery Peter Crispell 312 

Port Jervis, ist Willard Conger 418 

Port Jervis, 2nd J. B. Appel 99 



CHURCHES OF ORANGE COUNTY. 625 

Minisink Vacant 60 

Warwick Faber Knox 347 

Pine Bush H. K. Post 169 

Cuddebackville W. \V. VVliitncy 70 

Unionville Vacant 20 



Total 2,223 

There are hundreds if not diousands of people living in this county 
to-day, who do not understand why there are so many Christian societies 
bearing different names and worshiping apart. There are aknost as many, 
in all probability who are ignorant of the doctrines wherein they differ 
from other Christian bodies. 

The last generation arriving at adult age has heard so infrequently doc- 
trinal and controversial preaching as to know not why they are of one 
denomination rather than another. On this line the men who established 
Presbyterian bodies in this county, away back in the seventeenth and 
• eighteenth centuries, were well informed. 

The differences between the Presbyterians of the various schools are 
equally beyond the knowledge of the great majority. I am not going 
to attempt to enlighten myself or my readers by any research of old 
pamphlets, etc., of the Presbyterian denomination. Life is too short and 
the matter too immaterial to the issue in which we are interested. 

In 1752, says Ruttenber, the Associate Presbytery of Scotland sent the 
Rev. John Culbertson to America, who organized in the Wallkill valley 
a praying society in 1753, which eventually became the Refortned Presby- 
terian Church at Coldenham. 

In i8i()<)r 1817 a ijraying society established in Newburgh became the 
first Presbyterian Church there. 

In 1765 the Associated Reformed Church of Little Britain and Neely- 
lown began their corporate existence. 

In 183 1 the (irahani Cluirch of Crawford, organized in 1800, united 
with the church at Hamptonburgh. 

The first Associate Reformed Church of Newburgh. was organized in 
^7<^7. and the Union Associate Reformed in 1837. 

The Presbyterian Church at Goshen was the first of this denomination 
established in Orange County. Its first edifice stood at the site now occu- 
pied by the Court House. 

The secontl Presbxtcrian Church was that at Goodwill. It wa'= orig- 



626 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



inally established for the use of immigrants principally from County 
Londonderry, Ireland. Its first pastor was Rev. John Houston. Out of 
this organization rose not less than five others, namely : Neelytown, Hamp- 
tonburgh, Hopewell, Graham, Berea and Montgomery. Its first house 
of worship is said to have been erected in 1735. 

The third Presbyterian Church of Cornwall at Bethlehem, was organ- 
ized in 1730. From it sprang into existence the tirsr Presbyterian Church 
of Newburgh, and the first of New Windsor (now defunct). 
• The following statement was prepared by the Rev. Charles O. Hammer : 

Pastors. 
Churches. 

Amity R. H. Craig, LL.D 

Denton J. L. Harrington 

Chester R. H. McCready, Ph.D.. 

Goshen F. S. Haines 

Montgomery T. D. Elder 

Port Jervis Vacant 

Scotchtown " 

Goodwill J. H. Thompson 

Ramapo R. B. Marble 

Hopewell J. S. E. Erskine 

Westtown F. H. Bisbee 

Middletown, ist W. R. Ferris 

Monroe Vacant 

Suffern Pastor Elect 

Hamptonbufgh W. B. Johnson 

R.idgebury F. A. Gates 

Washingtonville J. A. McCallum 

Florida Vacant 

Centerville " 

Circleville " 

Middletown, 2nd Pastor Elect 

Mt. Hope Vacant 

Otisvillc " 

Slate Hill " 

Calvary, N. B. City J. Searles 

First, " " " Vacant 

Union, " " " S. K. Piercy 

Grand St.," " " R. H. Barr 

Bethlehem STy Mills I. Maxwell 

Cornwall H. R. Fraser 

Little Britain J. S. King 

Highland Falls A. R. Barron 

Canterburj' Supplied 

6,134 6,259 $99,715-52 



Membership. 


Money 


1902. 


1906. 


Raised. 


92 


102 


$1,086.80 


45 


32 


725-60 


284 


278 


3,378.56 


63.0 


393 


7,792.92 


186 


205 


4,416.72 


419 


335 


3,635.86 


126 


119 


1,156.70 


143 


152 


1,811.48 


320 


304 


5,674.00 


142 


128 


1,136.32 


160 


169 


1,638.72 


465 


465 


7,328.00 


III 


114 


1,870.00 




166 


2,225.40 


127 


162 


2,085.32 


82 


86 


1,381.24 


126 


146 


2,102.44 


155 


170 


2,699.00 


43 


40 


412.00 


105 


118 


1,137-44 


400 


486 


6,408.72 


29 


26 


290.24 


114 


109 


1,010.24 




44 


786.96 


282 


284 


10,849.50 


506 


490 


9,700.50 


400 


400 


7,04463 


174 


196 


2,274.25 


185 


201 


2,035.58 


129 


130 


1,817.25 


113 


135 


1,880.25 


41 


73 


1,922.88 



Churches 

Vacant 

Membership increase, 



23 



1902-1906 125 



CHURCHES OF UKAXCE COl'XT^'. 627 

Rcfoniicd Presbyterian, 'i'lic Ivcfornied l*resl)ylerian> are liic ccck-- 
siastical dcscciidaiils of the Covenanters of Scotland. In the latter half 
of the eighteenth century some of them who had come to Orange County, 
organized as a church society in Coldenham, and called as pastor, Rev. 
Dr. Alexander AIcLeod, who afterward hecamc famous as a ]jreacher in 
New York City. For five years, from 1812, Rev. James ]\Iulligan was 
pastor, and he was followed by the eloquent J. R. Williams, who deliv- 
ered the- famous address at Goshen when the bones of the patriots who 
fell in the battle of jNIinisink were buried. The present pastor is Rev. 
Thomas Patton. 

A society of Reformed Presbyterians was formed in Newburgh in 
1802. and services were held for a time at the residence of James Clarke. 
This was a part of the Coldenham congregation until 1824, when it was 
organized as a separate society and called for its first pastor Rev. J. R. 
Johnston, who afterward joined the Prcsbytcri'au Church. The present 
pastor, Rev. J. W. V. Carlisle, is the successor of his father, who died in 
1887. 

December 12, 1854, a second Reformed Presbyterian society was organ- 
ized in Newburgh. which is known as the Westminster Church. It has 
had but one pastor. Rev. J. R. Thompson, whose ministrations in Decem- 
ber, 1907. had extended through the long period of fifty-two years. He 
has said of his church : "The motto of Harvard College is 'Pro Christo 
et Ecclesia' ; but that of Reformed Presbyterians is, -Pro Christo et Ec- 
clesia et Patria.' Their aim is to Christianize the National government 
as well as the church." 

The Protestant Episcopal Church. This branch of the Church Catholic 
now represented in Orange County is shown by the followin.g statistical 
report. A brief general history of the Protestant Episcopal Church may 
be appreciated. Prior and up to the war of Independence, there were sev- 
eral plact"^ in the county where worship was maintained by the Church of 
England Society, for the propagation of the gospel in foreign parts, 
namely, at Xcwburgh on the glebe, granted to them by King George; at 
St. David's in the vicinity of the present village of Wa<=hing(onvillc. and at 
St. Andrews west of Newburgh some twelve miles. 

The success of the colonists in the above war took these and other 
churches from the jurisdiction of the Church of England. To meet the 
new situation measures were immediately taken by the ordained clerg}' of 



628 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ihe colonies, who had accepted the results of the Revolutionary War for 
the restoration of the government and worship of that church. The 
church in the United States was without a head, that is to say without a 
Bishop. Those who constituted it could not continue without such. All 
English Bishops were so sworn to the Crown of England that they were 
unable to act in an independent state such as this. No priest could be 
elevated to the office of Bishop in England without subscribing to the fol- 
lowing article, i. c. That the King's Majesty under God is the only Su- 
preme Governor of this realm and of all other of His Highness's domin- 
ions and countries as well as in all spiritual or ecclesiastical things or 
causes as temporal. In the American church no ordination or confirma- 
tions could take place. In 1780 a conference of the clergy and laity assem- 
bled at the call of the Rev. Dr. William Smith, president of ^^'ashington 
College. The purpose was to unite the separated parts into a body corpo- 
rate. A second conference was called in 1783. There were present at this 
eighteen clergymen. 

When the Revolutionary War closed there were in Connecticut forty 
Episcopal congregations, fourteen clergymen and forty thousand mem- 
bers, ten of the fourteen met at Woodbury in Litchfield County, and chose 
two men either of whom they thought would be suitable for the ofiice of 
Bishop, namely, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Leaming, and Samuel Seabury. 
Dr. Seabury accepted, went to England and laid before the Bishop his 
credentials submitting to him the fact which in the judgment of the Con- 
necticut people made the appointment of an American Bishop an immedi- 
ate necessity. In case of failiive in England he was to go to Scotland and 
endeavor to secure consecration of the non-juring Bishops. To these 
Bishops Seabury v/as finally compelled to resort for consecration. In a 
private chapel of a modest house in Aberdine he was consecrated by 
Robert Kilgour, Arthur Petrie and John Skinner. He came home to 
America the first Bisliop of the church here. 

In May. 1784, at a meeting held in New Brunswick, N. Y., by the man- 
agers of the society for the relief of the widows and orphans of clergy- 
men the general condition of the church came up for discussion, the result 
of which was a call for a conference of churchmen from all the States 
to be held in October. It met. There were present delegates from Penn- 
sylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland. Virginia and Con- 
necticut. A call was issued summoning the churches in the several States 



CHURCHES OF ORAXGE COUXTV. 629 

to <;eiid (lelegfates to a constitutional coUNcntiuii. This was held in Philadel- 
phia on St, jVIichael's Day in 1785, with the following result: A consti- 
tution for the church. Having made it they proceeded to consider the 
Episcopate: they drew up an address to the Archliishop and Bishops of 
England. Upon the receipt of the answer they met in October, 1786, for 
its consideration. In reply they informed the English Bishops that tiie 
Nicene and Apostles' Creeds were retained and that in fact the English 
prayer book was kept intact. 'i"he\' then called the roll of States present 
to ascertain if any had chosen men for Bishops. New York delegates pre- 
sented the name of Dr. Provoost. Pennsylvania presented the name of 
White, ^Maryland had already chosen Dr. Smith. White and Provoost 
'.vent to I'.ngland and were consecrated in Lambeth Chapel, hebruary 
4, 17S6. On their return 10 this country they were met by the Bishop 
of Connecticut and with him consulted on terms of union. The result of 
their deliberation was the adoption of resolutions which it was thought 
would harmonize both sides. In these resolutions they recognized the 
valitlit}' of Seabury's consecration and that together with Provoost and 
White they had all the power which belongs to the Episcopal ofihce limited 
only bv such canons or laws as the entire church of the United States 
might fix. They then adjourned to meet again in Connecticut in convention 
of the whole church. When the constitution w'as altered, the Bishops be- 
came a separate house, the other house was to be composed of representa- 
tives, lay and clerical (not Bishops). They also revised the English prayer 
book to make it harmonize with the government of these States. These 
things being satisfactorily adjusted the organization of the Protestant 
Episcopal church of the L'nited States of North America became an estab- 
lished fact. 

The Protestant l-^piscopal churches of this section, with those of other 
sections of New York State, first came under_ the superintendence of 
Bishop Samuel Provoost, Rector' of Trinity Parish in the city of New- 
York: at which time, St. Andrezvs Parish, Walden, then in Ulster 
County and St. Geor^^e's, Newburgh, were the only ones surviving the 
ravages of the Revolutionary period. These churches with St. Daind's 
had been organized under an act of incorporation granted by King George 
the Third, dated July 2.'?, 1770. at which time the Rev. John Sayre 
was in charge of missionary work at Newburgh and parts adjacent. 

There do not appear to have been any Episcopal duties performed in 
either Ulster or Orange Counties until 1700, from the time of the super- 



630 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

intendency of Bishop Provoost when Rev. George H. Spierin became the 
minister and schoohnaster of St. George's Glebe School and Church in 
Newburgh and the rector of St. Andreivs, Walden. There is no record 
of any visitations of the parishes by Provoost. 

In 1804 when Rev. Frederick Van Horn was rector of St. Andrew's, it 
and St. George's were members of the Diocesan convention. Bishop 
Moore was then in charge of the diocese. During his Episcopate St. 
James's Church., Goshen, was received into union with the convention, 
]8o8, and CJirist's Church, Warwick, 1804. Although there are no records 
of any Episcopal visitations in this section of the State there probably were 
such. February, 1816, Bishop Moore died, and was succeeded by Bishop 
John Henry Hobart, who became the third Bishop of New York. Trinity 
Church, from which the bishops were selected down to the time of Bishop 
Horatio Potter, furnished not only the Bishops but the financial means for 
the maintenance of church work throughout the whole country. The 
Episcopal Church in the United States, when Dr. Hobart assumed Epis- 
copal jurisdiction, was apparently dying. He revived hope in the hearts 
of its adherents. With him the church began to live and grow. He estab- 
lished a Churchman's magazine in New York, provided for a learned 
clergy by establishing a college at Geneva, did much for the endowment 
of the college in New York and was also the real founder of the Theo- 
logical Seminary there. It was while he was bishop that the Rev. John 
Brown became rector of St. George's Parish, Newburgh ( 1816) and St. 
Thomas's, New Windsor, 1818. 

The original diocese of New York is now divided into five. The names 
of successful Bishops of New York from Hobart's time to this are Right 
Rev. Treadwell Onderdonk, Avho was consecrated in 1830; Bishop Wain- 
wright. Bishop Horatio Potter, Bishop Henry C. Potter and Bishop Greer. 
In 1838 the diocese of western New York was created. Grace Church, 
Middletown, was organized under (Jnderdonk's Episcopate. During which 
also the Rev. Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright was consecrated to perform 
the Episcopal duties in the diocese provisionally. Bishop Wainwright 
died on the feast of St. Matthew, Thursday. September 21st, 1854. in the 
sixty-third year of his age. Dr. Horatio Potter became Bishop, Novem- 
ber 22, 1854, and served provisionally until the death of Bishop Onderdonk 
in 1861, and wholly from that time imtil the twelfth day of September, 
1883, when he withdrew, having faithfully served the church as Bishop 



CIllRCHES OF ORANGE COUNTY. 631 

of New York for twenty-nine years. His Episcopate was the most suc- 
cessful and satisfactory from the beginning-; liobart's was brilhant, 
but his was masterful and complete. He was a great man, master of 
himself and others. He ruled with case and equity the variant elements 
that composed the ministry and membership of the church. With clear 
perception of character he indulged idiosyncrasies in men whom he saw 
were sincere and earnest. A perfect gentleman, a true Christian, a sound 
churchman, unobtrusive and inotifcnsive. He handed the administration 
of the church to his successor affluent and strong, socially, spiritually, in- 
tellectually and financially. He was succeeded by his nephew, the Right 
Rev. Henry C. Potter. When he resigned his diocese there were in Orange 
County the following flouri.shing parishes : St. Gcori^e's, Newburgh ; St. 
Piiiirs. Newburgh; .S7. John's, Canterbury; St. faincs's, Goshen; Grace 
Church, Middletown ; St. Andretv's Walden; St. John's, Arden ; St. 
George's Mission, Newburgli ; Grace Church, Monroe. Under the jircsent 
administration of his successor the grow'th of the church in this county 
has been continuous since 1004, being greatly aided 1)y the Right Rev. 
David Hummel Greer. D.D.. LU.D.. Dishop coadjutor. Orange County is 
united for missionary work with Sullivan County and Ulster County 
under the Rev. W. R. Thomas, l^.D , Rector of Highland Falls, .\rch- 
Deacon. 

Tllli: PROTESTANT ICriSCOPAl. cnrKciii:s. 

Grace Church, Monroe. ^Minister in charge, J. H. McGinnis, D.D. Num- 
ber of communicants in 1905, fifty-six. Income, 1905. between five and six 
hundred dollars. 

St. Paul's Church, Chester. Rector. J. FI. Mcliinnis, D.D. Income, 
1905, $901 -39- Number of communicants in i<S99, thirty-three. 

St. Daniel's Church. pre-Revolutionary, near Washingtonville, (ex- 
tinct). 

Christ's Church, Warwick. Rev. W. M. Pickslay, Rector. This parisli 
was admitted into union with convention, in 1866. Number of comnnmi- 
cants in 1905, 130. Income, i<P5, $4,305.47. 

St. Mary's Church. Tuxedo. Rev. Wm. iMtz.Simons. Rector. Number 
of communicants in 1905, 242. Income, 1905, $18,654. 2^. 

St. John's Church. Arden, N. "S'. Rev. J. H. McGinni-^. Minister. Re- 
ceived into iniion with convention, in i8f)8. In the }ear of 1885 communi- 
cant^, fifty-seven, in 1905, forty. Income, 1905, Si ,16-. 25. 



632 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

St. Johns Church, Canterbury. Rev. W. W. Page, D.D., Rector. Or- 
ganized, 1858, church edifices erected and opened for divine service, ad- 
vent, 1859. A rectory was given to the parish by Miss E. C. Purdy in 
1876. Number of communicants in 1858, three, in 1863, thirty-three, in 
1879, fifty-nine, in 1885, 104, in 1905, 200. Income, 1905, $1,559. 

Holy Innocents, Highland Falls, Rev. W. R. Thomas, D.D. Receipts 
for 1905, $2,387. Communicants, 112. 

Si. Ihunias's Chv.rcii, New Windsor. Rev. Creighton Spensor. Or- 
ganized, April 8, 1 81 8. Church built in 1848. Number of communicants 
in 1905, thirty-three. Receipts, $1,441.71. 

St. Andrew's Church, Walden. Rev, Thomas G. Losee, Rector. Pres- 
ent number of communicants over 142. Incorporated in 1770, escaped 
dissolution during the Revolution. 

Good Slicphcrd, (^ireenwood Lake. Rev. VV. R. Thomas, D.D. In 1905 
number of communicants, forty. Receipts, 1905, $1,902.80. 

Good Shepherd Church, Newburgh. Rector, Rev. J. M. Chew. Organ- 
ized in 1872. Number of communicants, 1905, 813. Rev. Francis Wash- 
burn. Receipts, 1905, about $4,000, 

St. Paul's Church, Newburgh. Organized i860. Rev. James Calhoun 
Elliott, Rector. Number of communicants, 1905, 193. Receipts, 1905, 
$6,671.76. 

St. George's Church, Newburgh. Rev. John Huske, Rector. Incor- 
porated by Royal charter, July 30, 1770. Present church built 1819. 
Number of communicants, 1905, 558. Receipts between seven and eight 
thousand dollars. 

St. Agnes' s Chapel, Balmville. Rev. Frederick Everet Whitney, minister 
in charge. Built by Mr. and Mrs. Whitney, and maintained by gifts from 
the communicants and members of the congregation. Number of com- 
municants, itp5, fifty-eight. 

St. Andrew's Chapel, Montgomery. T. G. Losee, Rector. Number of 
communicants, 1905, twenty-nine. 

St. James's Church, Goshen. Parish organized June 25, 1803. Church 
built about 1804, and rebuilt, 1852. Rector. Rev. George William Dum- 
bell, D.D. In 1812, there were six communicants, and in 1905, 222. In- 
come about $4,000. It appears front the records that there was an Episco- 
pal Church before the Revolution, at Decker's Corners. In 1843, the Rev. 
W. W. Page, of Goshen, preached occasionally at Middletown. 



CHURCHES OF ORANGE COl'XTV. 633 

Cracc Church. ^Middletowii. Rector, Rev. I", j. Simthcrs, Jr. Parish 
orgfanized. l-'ebriiary 8. 1845. Church buih. 1847. Xuniber of communi- 
cants in 1885, 272. in 1905, 350. Income between seven and eight thou- 
sand dollars. 

Grace Church, Port Jervis. Rector, Rev. L'riah Symonds. Income in 
1905, between eight and nine hundred dollars. Parish organized in 1854. 
First church built in 1856, and the present edifice in 1870. Xumber of 
comnnmicants in 1871. twenty-seven, in 1905, 117. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOP.XL CHURCHES. 

The Rev. George W. Grinton, secretary of the New York Confer- 
ence, reports that there are at present thirty-six churches of this 
denomination in Orange County, with a total membership of 5,900. De- 
tailed reference to each appears in the various town histories of this pub- 
lication. 

Methodism began its existence on this continent and in this county, con- 
temporaneously with the Republic of the United States, John Wesley, 
the founder of it. began his zealous propaganda in England, among the 
unchurched masses, in the year 1739, the year that Whitefield began his 
second tour of America. Independent of any effort of his, the first 
society of Methodists was formed in the city of New York by some of the 
GeriMrm Palatines from Ireland. At the conference held by Wesley, at 
London, in 1770, two letters were received from New York reporting a 
society there of about one hundred members and a chapel. 

In 1784 Wesley appointed Cooke superintendent of the Methodist 
societies in the United States, giving the following reasons for doing so — 
"that as the Revolution had separated the United States from the mother 
country and the Episcopal establishment was utterly abolished in the 
States it became his duty as providently at the head of the Methodist 
societies to obey their demand and furnish them the means of Grace." 
"Recognized as their founder by the American Methodists; required by 
them to provide for their new necessities, and unable to induce the English 
prelates to do so, he ordained Cooke that he might go to America and 
ordain preachers." Cooke arrived in America and "ordained" Francis 
Ashbur}- first, as a presbyter and finally as a superintendent. Says 
Stevens, the Methodist historian : "The Colonial English Church being 



634 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

dissolved by the Revolution, its fragments were yet floating as had been 
the Methodist societies amid the stirring tide of events. When Ashbury 
began his superintendency there was small membership and but a few 
itinerant preachers. When he died there were seven hundred itinerants, 
2,000 local preachers and 240,000 lay members. 

The first services held in this country by a Methodist itinerant, Mr. 
Cooper, was held in the house of Colonel Daniel McCauley at Warwick in 
1706. I'he second at that of Mrs. A. Smith, a sister of the colonel, situated 
at Middlehope. Mr. Cooper also visited John Woolsey near Milton. Six 
weeks later, accompanied by a Mr. John McCloskey, John Cooper passed 
through the same section, going as far north as New Paltz, holding ser- 
vices at the homes of Hendrick Deyo and Andries DuBois. 

In \'j'&y Ezekiel Cooper visited the town of Newburgh and held relig- 
ious services at Samuel Fowler's in Middlehope, where he established a 
preaching station which remained such until 181 3. 

In 1788 the Methodist Conference established the Flanders circuit, 
which embraced a portion of this county, and put James O. Cooper in 
charge, with Jesse Lee, Orin Hutchins and John Lee as assistants. 

In 1789 the circuit of Newburgh was created, with James D. Cromwell 
as presiding elder, and Nathaniel B. Mills and Andrew Humphrey as 
preachers. The following classis composed the circuit : 

Samuel h^owler, Middlehope ; Munson Wards, Fostertown ; Jacob Day- 
tons. Lattingtoun ; Mr. Schultz, Dolsentovvn ; Mr. Warwick, Warwick; 
Lufif Smith, Marlborough ; Daniel Stephens, in the Clove ; Richard Gar- 
rison, in the Clove ; Elnathan Foster, Newburgh ; Daniel Holmes, Middle- 
hope ; Samuel Wyatts, Keytown ; Winslow Allison, Pochunk; John Elli- 
sons, New Windsor ; Daniel Ostrander, Plattekill ; Samuel Ketcham, 
Sugar Loaf. 

The first class to be organized (1807) as a church was the one at 
Vail's Gate under the name of the Union M. E. ChurcJi of Neiv Windsor. 
In 1 8 19 the Newburgh circuit was divided and another circuit created, 
including the societies at Bethel, Bloomingburgh, Middletown, Mont- 
gomery, Walden, Burlingham, Sam's Point and Walker \''alley. 

In 1837 Sugar Loaf circuit came into existence. This embraced Sugar 
Loaf, Florida, Ellenville, Bellevale, Chester. Monroe, Oxford, Satterly- 
tov(m. Washingtonville, Blagg's Corner. Highland Mills, Little Long Pond 
and Greenwood Lake. 



CHURCHES OF OK. WOE COUXTY. 635 

THE BAPTIST CHURCHES. 

The Bai)tist dcnoniinalion. we arc informed by Ur. A. R Fuller of the 
First Baptist Church, Xcwburgh. X. Y.. has at the present time, March, 
1907, eleven churches. CJne in C'ornwall, Unionville. Port Jervis, War- 
wick. Walden, Maybrook. two in Middletown and three in Xewburgh. It 
has church property v^alued at $162,500. 

The first minister of this i)ersuasion to preach its tenets in the county 
was Air. Halstead, pastor of a society at Fishkill, Dutchess County. April 
24. 1790, a society was organized in Xewburgh. In 1806 another society 
erected a place of worship at Luptondale, and established a burying 
ground. 

The Baptist congregation at Warwick originated with the settlers from 
Connecticut. These organized what has since been known as the Old 
School Baptist Body. The first place of worship was erected on what is 
now the junction of the road leading from the village of W^arwick. and 
the road leading from the Welling schoolhouse to Bellevale. In 1809 and 
1810 the society bought land in Warwick, and erected the building which 
it now occupies. 

THE H'THER.AX CHURCHES. 

The Lutheran churches are St. Peters, Port Jervis, and St. Paul's, 
Xewburgh. This society was founded by the immigrants from die Pala- 
tine, who were sent here in the reign of Queen Anne. 

THE UXITARIXX CHURCH. 

A Unitarian church, named the Church of Our Father, was organ- 
ized at Fishkill-on-the-Hudson in 1847, at a private residence. The first 
meetings were held at the DeWitt homestead, and afterward in the jjublic 
hall of the village. The congregation included men and women of culture, 
public si)irit and unquestioned high character. It was ministered to by 
such men of repute for ability and piety as Revs. William II. Channing, 
Edward Turner. V . .\. Farley and FT. W. Bellows among others. Oc- 
casional services were held at Low Point. Channingvillc and other points 
in the neighborhood of Fishkill for eight years. About 1855. ""^ conse- 
quence of the increasing attendance from Xewburgh. the church wa^ re- 



■636 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

organized in that city, where services were held in the court house and 
the UniversaHst church, and there was preaching by some of the ablest 
ministers of the denomination. There were so many accessions to the 
church that in 1869 a committee was chosen to consider the subject of 
building a house of worship. This consisted of William W. Carson, John 
Heron, George Lamey, Benjamin Dumville, George H. Southard, J. N. 
Dichey, George W. Peters and William Stocker. Warren Delano was 
afterwards added, and made chairman. The deliberations and resulting 
efforts brought about the erection of the present building at a cost of 
$16,000, and it was consecrated in 1870. The first pastor was Rev. F. W. 
Holland, and the present pastor is Rev. Alson FI. Robinson. 

THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH IN ORANGE. 

The first Catholic missions in Orange County seem to have been estab- 
lished in 1817 and 1818. The Rev. Dr. French came m 1817, and the Rev. 
Father Langdill arrived about a year later. 

The first Catholic church. St. Patrick's, was organized at Newburgh in 
1826, and the parochial school in connection with that church was started 
soon afterward. 

The introduction of Roman Catholicism in this State during the colonial 
period is fraught with much interest. The history of these initial efforts 
covers the incidents of the French and Indian wars, beginning in 1687 
and terminating in the French domination of Canada. Even as far back 
as 1608, the work was begun among some of the northern Indian tribes. 
But the conversion of the Six Nations met with little success until after 
the accession of James II to the English throne. He instructed the 
province governors to aid the French missionaries and grant them every 
facility in the prosecution of their work. 

But these privileges were also used to advance their national cause 
among the Iroquois, and the King was compelled to modify his zeal for 
the propagation of the Catholic faith, which he professed. 

This policy of the English government was entirely changed, however, 
on the accession of William and Mary. Trade with the Indians had been 
seriously affected by the influence of these French priests, and the alliance 
between the English and the Iroquois was greatly weakened in conse- 
quence. Even the toleration of Catholicism was now forbidden ; not from 



CHURCHES OF ORANGE COUNTY. O37 

any hostility to the faitli in itself, but for political reasons which affected 
the nation and its interests. Severe measures of repression were adopted. 
Catholic priests who came into the provinces voluntarily were subject to 
the death penalty. 

This practically was the state of affairs until after the breaking out of 
the Revolutionary War. Then, by the terms of the tirst State constitution, 
freedom of opinion was permitted to all who subscribed to the oath of 
allegiance. When Ireland was appealed to for aid in the war, and the 
subsequent assistance of Catholic France was asked, the prejudices of the 
people were materially affected. This made it possible to engraft upon the 
federal constitution of 1787 the full and complete equality of all religious 
faiths. This of course opened the door to Catholicism, and yet the church 
authorities seem to have made little effort to extend their faith until after 
the Irish rebellion of 1798. Then the Catholic immigrants began to ar- 
rive in America. 

The first priest stationed in New York City was the Rev. Charles 
W^halen. an Irish Franciscan, who had been a chaplain in the French 
fleet. He settled here after the war, and his brother. Dr. Joseph Whalen, 
purchased a plot of land from the Schuyler patent in Montgomery in 
Xpril. 1788. The Rev. Luke Concanen was the first Bishop of New York, 
but he died before entering upon his duties. The Rev. John Conelly, his 
successor, was consecrated in 1814. And the first thing he did was to 
establish missions in the Hudson River valley. He is said to have sought 
"to prevent the children of Catholics conforming to the persuasions of 
iheir neighbors." 



'638 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXXVI. 

ORANGE COUNTY AGRICULTURE. 

By David A. Morrison. 

THE success and well-being of the American farmer is always a 
matter of vital concern to the entire country. The agricultural 
interest of any country, any State, or any county, being the funda- 
mental condition upon which all other branches of human effort are based 
and must depend, is therefore of paramount concern to all classes. 

In the county of Orange in 1899 the figures of the national census show 
there were 1 0^584 acres devoted to corn, which yielded 589,730 bushels 
of this cereal that year. Two thousand eight hundred and forty-four 
acres were sown to wheat and 42,430 bushels were gathered. The acreage 
of rye was 4,-453, and the total yield was 79,980 bushels. Oats were grown 
upon 5,156 acres and the product was 126,540 bushels. One thousand 
three hundred and eighty-three acres were in buckwheat, and the pancake 
crop that year was 23,640 bushels. 1 

The decrease in the rural population of Orange County homes is smaller j 
than most other counties of the State, and the depreciation of farm lands | 
is not so apparent. In fact the general property valuation of the county ! 
seems to be increasing something like two and one-half million dollars per 1 
year, being rated at $43,804,861.40 for 1907. | 

The population of the county, according to the State enumeration of j 
1905, was 107,267. This was an increase over the report of the national j 
census for 1900 of 3,408. Oi this number, 41,014 lived in the cities of i 
Newburgh and Middletown. In iSSo the county ranked eleventh in the 1 
State for population, ninth in the value of its farms, and third in the value ! 
of its farm buiUlings. It was second in the yield of hay, sect^nd also in \ 
corn, and third in wheat and potatoes. In the dairy department it stood [ 
right at the head, being first in cows and also in the average yield per ! 
cow. Even in its production of wool the county had fourth place. j 

Samuel W. Eager, the early and conscientious historian of Orange | 
County, speaking of the agricultural aspect of the county in 1847, says : 

"The soil is above medium character for all agricultural purposes, and j 



ORAXr.E COL'XTV AGKICL'LTURE. 63«j 

wliilf the agriculiurc vi the ctjunty i> alxne nicdiucril}, the soil may be 
considered worn out and exhausted, as respects growing large or profitable 
crjps (if wheat, without nianuring too expensivel} . That article must be 
purchased of the western farmer, who yet drives his ploughshare through 
a .-irung and virgin soil. That this crop must be abandoned for the pres- 
ent, and the land employed to raise grass, or other grains, is a dictate of 
common sense, and we trust our farmers are wise enough lo see it, and 
not struggle in an uneciual contest against the easy culture and large crops 
of the West." 

While this advice was doubtless justified, statistics show it was not fol- 
lowed. The wheat crop of 1874 was greater than that of 1840, and the 
yield per acre was better imder the improved culture. No attempt is 
made to compete w ith the vast wheat fields of the far West in the produc- 
tion of this great staple grain, which in fact is only grown to a very lim- 
ited extent in this county to-day. 

Small fruits, peaches, apples and other orchard fruits are extensively 
grown in some parts of the county, especially in the upper river section, 
about Xewburgh and Cornwall. The peach industry began in the New- 
burgh district about 1880, and in the Pine Island section about 1895, and 
for a time some fine crops were gathered when the winters were not too 
severe. But of late the orchards are less promising because of the devas- 
tations of the San Jose scale, which, together with the severe winters, 
make peach growing a precarious business in this section. Tlie leaf curl 
and peach yellows are other discouraging features, and it takes an intelli- 
gent and industrious grower to succeed in the business. He must spray 
ard spray, and also dig the borers from the base of the tree trunks dili- 
gently. 

Among the largest peach growers in the Warwick. New Mil ford and 
Pine Island districts are E. G. Stiebeling, 6,000 trees; J. B. Rhodes, 4.000; 
J. R. Feagles, 4.000; Plarvey Vail, 6,000; E. D. Waterbury, 3,000; J. C. 
Drew. 2.000; G. W. Hyatt. 6,000; W. S. Layton. 4.000; Henry Demorest, 
4.000: P.arry Walch. 3,000; Henry Patton, 2.000: Thomas Willing, 2.000; 
H. F. Wheeler. 2.000; Knapp & Husted. 1.500; George Benedict, i.ooo: 
J. E. Sanford. 2.0C0. Florida District: J. O. Gable, 3.000; H. D. Jessup, 
3.000: Charles Jessup, 3.000: John Houston. 2.000: E. Lovett. 2,000. 
Chester District : E. N. Demorest. 2.000. The largest fruit growers in 
the Middlehope section are E. D. Barns. Nathaniel Barns. Nat. C. Barns. 



640 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

John W. Bingham, W. J. Fowler, V. J. Kohl and many others. Barnyard 
manure, muriate of potash and ground bone are the fertilizers used. It is 
found by these growers that the peach can only be grown upon high, dry 
land with profit. The flavor of the fruit produced here is like that of the 
lower Ulster and northern Orange section, of high quality, and it brings 
the best price. 

Red raspberries and strawberries were very successfully grown in 
diflerent parts of the county some years ago, especially about Cornwall 
and Newburgh, and the northern river section. And both these popular 
fruits are still produced to a large extent. Among these small fruit en- 
thusiasts there were the late Rev. E. P. Roe and N. P. Willis, of Cornwall. 
North of Newburgh was the home of Andrew J. Downing and Charles 
Downing, his brother, whose standard work on "The Fruits and Fruit 
Trees of America" has been the recognized authority upon nomenclature 
and description of fruits in America, ever since it was written. 

THE ORANGE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. 

This society is one of the oldest and best known organizations in the 
county. It had its beginning at a meeting of citizens called pursuant to 
law by Lebbeus L. Vail, county clerk, to organize a county agricultural 
society, and held in the Old Stone Court Flouse at Goshen, .September 
II, 1S41. Of the persons who attended that meeting the names of the 
following have been rescued from oblivion : John Caldwell, Jesse Bull, 
Nicholas Dederer, Blooming Grove; William Sayer, Cornwall; Alexander 
Thompson, Crawford; Aaron Van Duzer, Charles Monell, John Wilson, 
Hezekiah H. Strong, Phineas Rumsey, James W. Carpenter, Goshen; 
Hamilton Morrison, Samuel Wait, Jr., John Wait. Gideon Pelton, John 
A. Smith, Montgomery; Frederic J. Betts, Charles Downing, Henry Rob- 
inson, Newburgh ; Leonard Lee, John R. Caldwell, New Windsor ; 
WilHam Hurtin, Israel H. Wickham. Wallkill ; Jeffrey Wisner, Warwick. 

At that meeting a constitution and by-laws were adopted, and at the 
adjourned meeting, held at the same place, October 13, 1841, the organiza- 
tion of the society was completed by the election of the following officers: 
President, John Caldwell, Blooming Grove. Vice-presidents, Captain 
Henry Robinson, Newburgh; John R. Caldwell, New Windsor; William 
Sayer, Cornwall; Jeffrey Wisner, Warwick; Lewis H. Roe, Alonroe ; 



ORANGE COUNTY A(1RICULTURE. 641 

Unlet Clark, Minisink : janics D. Hull. Hamptonburgh ; Richard Sears, 
Goshen; Gideon Pelton, jNIontgomery ; David C. Bull, Crawford; William 
Hurtin; Wallkill; William S. Little, Mount Hope; Thomas V^an Etten, 
Deer Park. Recording- secretary. John Wilson, Goshen. Corresponding 
secretary, Joseph W. Gott, Goshen. Treasurer, Charles Monell. Goshen. 
Executive committee. Frederic J. Retts, Samuel Wait, Jr., Leonard Lee. 
Phineas Rumsey. Alexander Thompson, Charles Dill, Thomas W. 
P>radner. 

( )f the officers then (.U cted not one survives. So long has been the time 
that has passed, and so many and so great the changes that have taken 
place since its organization, that the management of the society is now in 
the hands of men, few of whom knew any of its founders. Although they 
were ])rominent men. well-known in their day and generation, even their 
names are not familiar to a majority of its members to-dav. 

The first fair was held at Goshen, November 17, 1841 ; and although it 
was very late in the season, and there had been but little time for prepara- 
tion, it gave such general satisfaction that the success of the society was 
assured. The cattle, sheep and swine were shown on the grounds adjacent 
to the Presbyterian church ; the horses were exhibited on ALiin street, 
and the other exhibits in the Old court house. Ninety-seven premiums 
were awarded amounting to $210, besides twenty-one agricultural peri- 
odicals. 

The second fair was held at Goshen, October 12. 1S42. The premiums 
offered amounted to S333. exclusive of thirt\-five agricultural books and 
papers, distributed as follows: Farms, S45 . cattle. $113: horses, S38 ; 
sheep, $31 ; swine, $8; butter, $44; agricultural products, $54. The county 
newspapers of that time said "The exhibition was in the highest degree 
creditable to the agricultural interests of the county. The people assem- 
bled in thousands to witness the exhibition, and thronged the streets in 
numbers e(|ualed on but few occasions before. The exhibition of domestic 
manufactures graced the interior of the new court house." 

The third fair was held ( )ctober 4. 1843. I'ive thousand persons were 
estimated to have been in attendance. ( )ne hundred and thirteen premi- 
ums were awarded amounting to $;^2^. besides twenty-eight publications. 
The following extract from the annual report of the president. Hon. 
I'rederic J. Retts, is a reminder of changed conditions: "About thirty 
samples of butter were exhibited, and the comnu'ttee of judges announcea 



642 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

that twenty-six of the specimens they beheved could not be beat in the 
world. In superlatives there is no comparative degree, and it is difficult 
to say, therefore, who stands first in such a category. Our wives and our 
daughters are our dairy-women, and while they so ably sustain the agri- 
cultural reputation of the county, Old Orange need have no fears for her 
rank as a farming- county." 

In 1846 the society for the first time held its fair on two days. In that 
year the first plowing match took place and was an interesting- feature of 
the exhibition. Each competitor was required to plow one-fourth of an 
acre in seventy-five minutes, including- two rests of five minutes each. 

At the annual meeting in 1847, n'ainly through the efforts of the New- 
burgh members, the constitution of the society was so amended that the 
annual fair was thereafter to be held at Goshen every alternate year and 
the rest of the time at other places. 

In 1848 it was held at Newburgh. The mechanical display was made 
on the porch of the court house, the grain and vegetables in the main 
hall, the fruit and domestic manufactures in the court room and within 
the railing, the horses were shown on Liberty street, and the cattle on a 
lot west of it. The plowing match took place on the fann of Captain Rob- 
inson. County Judge A. M. Sherman was one of the competitors — he 
held his own plow, performed his work in the shortest time, and received 
one of the premiums. 

in 1850 the fair was held at Montgomery. The articles were exhibited 
imder a tent, the cattle were loose in an adjoining field, the horses were 
shown on Union street ; 95 were awarded in premiums on cattle, $57 on 
horses, $60 on sheep and swine, $14 on butter and $27 on plowing. 

At Middletown in 1852, the fair grounds were located in the eastern 
part of the village and were known as the Ogden Track. At the sugges- 
tion of Colonel Israel H. Wickham (then president), the society had pur- 
chased a large tent, in which all articles were exhibited. Nearly all the 
cattle were tied to posts, and the horses for the first time were exhibited 
on a track. 

The fourteenth fair was held at Chester. 

The second fair held at Newburgh, October 8 and 9, 1856, was a great 
success. The society's tent was erected on grounds attached to Washing- 
ton's Headquarters, north of which were posts with ties for cattle and 
pens for other animals, the adjacent lot on the south was used for loose 



ORAXGE COUNTY AGRICLT/n'RI-:. 643 

cattle. Arraiiiixn It'll t^ were made with llic trustees of the village, and 
with the uvvners of property on South W'ilham, Liberty and other streets, 
for the exchi-ive use of portions of these streets for the exhibition of 
horses. J he plownig match and a trial of plows took place a short dis- 
tance south of Headquarters. Special attractions were for the first time 
provided — there was a parade of the entire fire department of the village 
and a boat race under the auspices of the Xewburgh Regatta Association. 

In 1858 the second fair at Montgomery was said to have been one of 
the best then held in the county. One hundred and ninety-seven premiums 
were awarded. 

In i860 the fair was again held at Middletown. The published accounts 
rtproent it to have been still more successful than it had been eight years 
before. 

During these first twenty years of the society's existence it was cus- 
tomary for the executive committee to meet at an early day, fix a date for 
the fiiii, ])repare a premium list, select judges, and have all published 
gratuitously in the newspapers of the county. These earh' fairs w'ere 
generally satisfactory. The grounds not bemg inclosed, no admission fee 
was charged. Articles were exhibited in public halls until 1850. and after 
that in a tent. The expenses were light, the premiums few and i)ayment 
was obtained from membership fees and the State appropriation, supple- 
mented by private contributions procured by personal importunity. 

.\t the annual meeting in i8^)i the executive committee was empowered 
to raise b\- stock subscription a sum of money sufficient to purchase or 
lease suitable grounds, and to erect buildings and fences thereon — the 
grounds t(i be in the vicinity of Cioshen. The CDmmittee leased the 
ground^ known as the ( ioshen Driving I'ark. and issued certificates of 
stock, in shares of $25 each, bearing interest at the rate of ten per cent, 
per annum. The nuinht.r nf shares was fixed at ioo, and no person was 
permitted to subscribe for more than one share. .Ml the stock was 
promptly taken, and the building (Agricultural Hal!) occupied by the 
society from 1862 to 1874. During this period the interests (^f the turf 
were predominant and not entirely regarded as creditable exhibitions of 
the products of the farm, the workshop, or the home. 

In i8^/t the society was reorganized and inoorporaied 1 lavmg failed 
to secure a renewal t^f the lease for the grounds, it was determined that 
the fair buildiu"- should be -old at auction, and on the 20th of December 



644 ' THE COUNTY OF ORAiNGE. 

it was sold for .$300. The proceeds of the sale were in part applied to the 
payment of debts, the balance was divided pro rata among the stock- 
holders, who, as an element of the society, then ceased to exist. 

In 1874 the society was therefore composed only of members. It was 
without grounds. It was out of funds and cut of debt — having neither 
assets nor liabilities. Its exhibitions held many years at Goshen, the resi- 
dents of that village had tired of them, and the people in other sections 
of the county took but little interest in them. Several of its leading man- 
agers were so absorbed in horse trotting that other departments had been 
neglected. The number of entries had been reduced to less than 400. 
The attendance of visitors was comparatively small, and the membership 
had dwindled to about seventy. 

Under these discouraging circimistances, such of the officers as con- 
tinued to take an interest in the society accepted the invitation of citizens 
of Montgomery to hold the thirty-fourth fair in that village. The result 
fully vindicated the wisdom of their action. More than 1,000 entiies were 
made. Many new members were enrolled, prominent among whom was 
the Rev. L. L. Comfort, whose influence and example did much to elevate 
it from Ihe condition into which it irad fallen. The fairs continued to be 
held at Montgomery for four years, during which time the treasury was 
replenished and a surplus fund formed which in 1887 amounted to about 
$8,000. 

The memorable fair in 1878, held at Washington ville, was the beginning 
of a new era. For the first time in twenty years no trotting or racing 
was seen on the grounds. It was in all respects a legitimate and successful 
exhibition, and was only excelled by that of the following year, held at the 
same place, when nearly 2,600 entries were made, and 800 premiums, 
amoimting to more than $1,500, awarded. During these two years the 
Orange County fair was raised to the high plane that it has since occupied. 

At Warwick in i8<So and 1881 the excellence of its exhibitions were 
fully mamtained. The additions then made to the society's membership 
rolls, and to its council board, were of great value, and were largely 
instrumental in securing tlie successes of subsequent vears. 

In 1882 the fair was located at Middletown, where it remained three 
years, exceeding in magnitude of display all former ones. The record of 
over 1,100 membership fees received, and of 379 entries of horses the 
third vear, have not since been broken. 



ORANGE COUNTY AGRICULTURE. 645 

The status of the society not being in harmony with the articles of 
association, at tlie annual meeting- ni 1884. new articles of association 
were adopted and signed, and a new certificate of incorporation and 
reorganization filed with the secretary of state and with the county 
clerk. 

i'iie next three fairs held at Newburgh witnessed such exhibitions of 
the residts of industry and bkill as had never before been seen in this 
county. The visit of Governor Hill in 1887, was the first time the society 
bad been honored with the presence of the chief executive of the State 
on its fair grounds. 

In 1888 and 1889 the fairs were held at Goshen. The number of 
entries was fully up to the average of recent fairs, while the quality of the 
exhibits in several departments had never been better. At the first of 
these fairs the society was honored with an address by the Hon. Norman 
J. Coleman. United States Commissioner of Agriculture. 

The semi-centennial fair at Port Jervis in 1890, and that of 1891, were 
in all respect.^, verv successful. In the latter year the whole number of 
entries was 5,i-20. nearly 700 more than at any former fair. In the 
domestic department nearly 1,200 entries were made, evincing in many 
way> woman's inventive genius and patient industry. The exhibition of 
articles of historic interest has never been equaled in this county. 

The society's second visit to Warwick was in 1892 and 1893. The 
])resence of Governor Flower, with the 5th and 10th Separate Companies 
i>f Newburgh as his military escort, was a noteworthy event. 

The fairs of 1894, 1895 and 1896, held at Newburgh, are said to have 
been the greatest the Society has ever held. The number of entries in 
certain classes will give some idea of its magnitude. Cattle,, 272 entries ; 
horse>, 116; poultry, 1,502; bench shows. 208: mechanical, 238; grain 
and vegetables, 849; fruit, 1,144; flowers, 204; culinary, 310; domestic 
990; miscellaneous. 223. Total in all classes, 6.084. The exhibition of 
school work not entered for competition was a revelation to thousands of 
visitors of the work now being done by the pupils of public, private and 
parochial schools. 

After the fair of 1896, the managers of the society being unable to 
obtain a satisfactory lease of the grounds for a term of vears, purchased 
the Campbell Track Grounds at ^liddletown. April t6, 1807. These 
LTvounds are well adapted to fair purpo'^^es. and when contemplated im- 



646 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



provements are made they will compare favorably, in convenience and 
beauty, with any fair grounds in the State. 

The last eleven fairs have been held on these grounds. They are events 
of such recent occurrence that historic interest does not yet attach to them. 
It may, however, be well to say that these eleven exhibitions have been 
in magnitude and excellence highly creditable to the society. 

The society occupies a prominent place in the front rank of the agri- 
cultural societies of the State. Organized to promote agriculture, horti- 
culture, the mechanic and household arts, it has not lost sight of these 
objects. During the sixty-eight years of its existence, in times of pros- 
perity and seasons of adversity, in peace and in war. it has never failed to 
hold its annual fair. It is a societ\' whose reputation is unblemished, 
whose honor is bright, whose record is clean ; a society that has not sacri- 
ficed right for expediency nor won temporary success at the expense of 
principle ; a society that has never repudiated its debts but has honorably 
discharged all its obligations ; a society that has always paid its premiums 
in full and never paid them pro rata ; a society whose fair grounds have 
not been noisy with the voices of fakirs, defiled with the devices of gamb- 
lers nor desecrated by immoral shows, but have been consecrated to legiti- 
mate exhibitions ; a society whose management during the years that are 
gone has been such that no rival society (town or district) has ever been 
organized within the limits of the county, to sap the sources of its pros- 
perity, limit the sphere of its operations, or lessen the extent of its influ- 
ence — a fact without a parallel in the State. 

Presidents, Secretaries and Treasurers of The Orange County 
Agricultural Society from 1841 to igo8. 

Presidents. 



John Caldwell, Blooming Grove.1841 
Frederic J. Betts, Newburgh. . 1842- 1846 
William Murray, Jr., Goshen. 1847 
Henry Robinson, Newburgh. . 1848 
Robert Denniston, Bloooming 

Grove 1849 

Allen M. Sherman, Newburgh. 185c 
Edward. L. Welling, Warwick. 1851 
Israel H. Wickham, Wallkill. . 1852 

John J. Heard, Goshen 1853 

Seely C. Roe, Chester 1854 

John H. Morris, Goshen 1855 

Henry Robinson, Newburgh... 1856 
Seely C. Roe, Chester 1857 



Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 
gomery 1858 

Alden Goldsmith, Blooming 

Grove 1859 

William H. Houston, War- 
wick i860 

James S. Hopkins, Hampton- 
burgh 1861 

Alfred B. Post, Goshen 1862 

Thomas Edsall, Goshen 1863 

Alanson Gillespie, Goshen 1864 

Charles M. Shons, Blooming 
Grove 1865 



ORANGE COUNTY ACiRICULTURK. 



647 



licc-Prcsidoits. 
One from each town 1841-1861 Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 



gomery 



,1862-1865 



Corresponding Secretaries. 

Samuel Wait, Jr., Montgom- William F. Sharpc, Goshen. .. 1850 

ery 1841 Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 
Joseph W. Gott, Goshen 1841-1847 gomery 1851- 1857 

Daniel D. Boice, Newburgh. . 1848 David A. Morrison, Mont- 
Benjamin F. Dunning, Goshen. 1849 gomery 1858-1865 



Treasurers. 



Charles Monell, Goshen 1841 

Charles Downing, Newburgh.. 1842- 1846 

John J. Heard, Goshen 1847 

Charles Downing, Newburgh. .1848 
Benjamin F. Duryea, Goshen. 1849 
Charles Downing, Newburgh.. 1850 
David F. Gedney, Goshen 1851 



William M. Graham, Goshen.. 1852 
William M. Beakes, Goshen.. 1853 

George W. Roe, Chester 1854 

William M. Sayer, Goshen 1855-1859 

Archibald L. Beyea, Goshen., i860 
William !M. Sayer, Goshen. ... 1861-1865 



Reorganization — 1866. 



Presidents. 



Ellis A. Post, Goshen 1866- 1872 

Alden Goldsmith, Blooming 

Grove 1873 

Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 
gomery 1874 



Alden Goldsmith, Blooming 

Grove 1875-1877 

Rev. L. L. Comfort, Mont- 
gomery 1878 

Hon. A. Dennison, Blooming 
Grove 1879-1908 



Vice-Presidents. 



Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 
gomery 1866-1873 

Alfred B. Post, Goshen 1870-1874 

Hamilton Morrison, Mont- 
gomery 1875-1881 

Virgil Thompson, Wallkill. .. .1875-1881 
Aug. Denniston, Blooming 

Grove 1877-1878 

Henry C Weir, Chester 1879-1884 

W. Egbert Arnout, Wawa- 
yanda 1880 



Grinnell Burt, Warwick 1880-1882 

Henry E. Alvord, Cornwall... 1884 
Moses D. Stivers, Wallkill. ... 1881-1888 
Lawson Valentine, Cornwall. .1887-1888 
Benjamin C. Sears, Blooming 

Grove 1889-1901 

William D. Barns, Newburgh. 1889- 1898 
Edward A. Brown, Middle- 
town 1899-1908 



Secretaries. 



iJavid A. Morrison. Mont- 
gomery 1866 

Roswell C. Golcman, Goshen. 1867 



George W. Millspaugh, Goshen. 1868 
David A. Morrison, Mont- 
gomery 1869-1908 



648 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Treasurers. 



George W. Greene, Goshen. . . .1866-1867 
Jason W. Corwin, Goshen. .. .1S68- 1876 
Benjamin B. Johnston, Mont- 
gomery 1877-1880 

Samuel S. Van Saun, War- 
wick 1881-1882 



William B. Royce, Wallkill. . .1882-1892 
Samuel S. Van Saun, War- 
wick 1893-1894 

Harry M. Waring, Newburgh.1895-1897 
Henry M. Howell, Middle- 
town 1898- 1908 



Directors. 



Alden Goldsmith 1866- 

J ames S. Hopkins 1866- 

Charles B. Seely 1866- 

Virgil Thompson 1866- 

Nathaniel Van Sickle 1866- 

William H. Ward 1866- 

Alfred B. Post 1868 

Charles M. Thompson 1869- 

William H. Houston 1869- 

John S. Edsall 1871- 

Virgil Thompson 1872- 

Alfred Wells 1873- 

Daniel M. Wade 1874- 

Alfred B. Post 1874- 

Augustus Denniston 1875- 

Ebenezer Van Alst 1875- 

Rev. L. L. Comfort 1876- 

John C. Shaf er 1877- 

Benjamin C. Sears 1878- 

William H. Hallock 1878- 

Daniel Smith 1879- 

Pierson E. Sanford 1880- 

J. Edward Wells 1880- 

W. Egbert Arnout 1882- 

Leander Clark, Jr 1883- 

Horace McBride 1883- 

Henry M. Howell 1883- 

Joseph Van Cleft 1885- 

Daniel S. Waring 1885- 

John M. Burt 1886- 

Charles E. Johnson 1889- 

E. G. Fowler 1890- 

Samuel B. Hill 1890- 



873 
867 

872 



870 

874 
871 
873 
874 
875 
876 
878 
877 
892 
877 
879 
888 
908 



905 



893 
897 



Theodore Moore 1891-1896 

Edward B. Sanford 1891-1895 

William H. Nearpass 1893-1895 

Joseph S. Dunning 1893-1895 

Edwin T. Skidmore 1894-1896 

Sidney H. Sanford 1896-1905 

Edwin L. Requa 1896- 1897 

C. Emmet Crawford 1896 

E. G. Eowler 1896-1898 

George A. Swayze 1897- 1900 

Horace D. Thompson 1897-1905 

Emmet E. Wood 1898 

Oscar W. ]\Iapes 1898 

William H. Clark 1898-1903 

Charles Mapes 1899-190S 

Samuel D. Roberson 1899-1901 

V. Edgar Hill 1899-1908 

W. A. Lawrence 1899-1908 

Joel W. Houston 1900-1908 

Charles L. Elwood 1900-1902 

John I. Bradley 1901-1908 

William B. Royce 1901-1908 

Leander Clark, Jr 1902-1906 

W. G. Davis 1903-1905 

William H. Nearpass 1903-1908 

William C. Hart 1904-1908 

W. O. Minturn 1904-1908 

John W. Sanford 1906- 1908 

Rev. Andrew Schriver 1906-1908 

Dr. M. A. Stivers 1906-1908 

Howard D. Seely T906-T908 

A. F. Storey 1907-1908 



Wallkill Valley Farmers' Assocl\tion. — The following brief 
sketch was furnished by Mr. William C. Hart, Secretary of the Associa- 
tion. In 1889, the late Chaiincey A. Reed stiggested to the writer the ad- 
visability of the farmers of the Wallkill valley uniting- in an effort to 
secure the appointment of a Farmers' Institute, to be held under the 
auspices of the New York State Department of Farmers' Institutes. An 
hour later, in consultation with Nicholas J. Fowler, it was decided to in- 



ORANGE COUNTY AGRICULTURE. 649 

vite representative agriculturists to meet at his office on the evening of 
November 11, at which time a local society would be formed. The result 
of this meeting was highly satisfactory. William C. Weller was appomted 
chairman, William C. Hart, secretary, and Nicholas J. Fowler, treasurer, 
with committees on tinance, music, adilresses, etc. On November 25, at 
an adjourned meeting, the executive committee reported an enrollment 
of one hundred and sixty-eight members, with liberal responses in con- 
tributions to defray expenses. 

The Institute held at Scofield Hall, December 19, 20 and 21, proved suc- 
cessful beyond the anticipation of its promoters and immediately suggested 
the desirability of forming a permanent organization. The idea was 
greatly strengthened on February 10 at Coldenham, N. Y., when Mr. 
George T. Powell, of Ghent, N. Y., gave a stirring address on the impor- 
tance of carrying forward the movement, which appealed strongly to all. 
Thus started the movement which has resulted in the present organization 
— an association that has done more to unfold the beauty and charm of 
the Wallkill Valley and spread its fair name to remote localities than all 
efforts put forth by similar attempts in this direction. 

OBJECTS OF ORGANIZATION. 

The realization of the inestimable majesty; the unspeakable goodness 
of God as revealed in this marvelous valley, thus indirectly leading the 
thought of humanity into the valleys and rivers of life eternal. 

The attainment of knowledge which comes of well ordered discussion. 
Increased skill in the methods of labor. 

The mutual improvement of its members by disseminating reliable and 
valuable information tending to promote the best interests of the Wallkill 
valley. 

Such advantages as may be derived through associated effort to pro- 
mote a higher degree of excellence in farm, garden and agricultural 
affairs generally. The introduction and testing of flow^ers. shrubs, forest 
and ornamental trees. 

It is the primary object of the Society to awaken interest in and promote 
the progress of that noblest of all human callings, agriculture, and it is 
the policy of the board of managers to interest all in its annual outing — 
not onlv as an exhiliition of the prosperity and progress of the farm- 



650 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ing section, of the grrowths of field and orchard and garden, of intelhgent 
competition in stock-breeding and dairy interests, but as a demonstration 
of the pubHc spirit. intelHgence and prosperity of the entire productive 
and business community. 

THE OUTING DAYS AND OLD HOME WEEK. 

As the society grew and prospered it was decided to estabhsh a social 
side to the many interests represented. Arrangements were made with 
much enthusiasm on the part of its membership to hold beneath the open 
sky an outing that -would have a tendency to attract the farming com- 
munity with their guests and friends that might prove advantageous to all. 

MEMORIAL DAYS — DATES AND LOCATIONS OF THE OUTINGS OF THE ASSOCIATION. 

1893 — August 2S, at Woodlav/n Farm 

1894 — August 15, at Borden's Home Farm. 

1895 — August 21, at Woodlawn Farm. 

1896 — August 13, at Woodlawn Farm. 

1897 — August 26, at Woodlawn Farm, Walden. 

1898 — August 10, at Scofield's Grove, Walden. 

1899 — August 9, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1900 — August 8, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1901 — August 14, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1902 — August 13, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1903 — August 12 and 13, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1904 — August i~ and 18, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1905 — August 16 and 17, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1906 — August 15, 16 and 17, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

1907 — August 14 and 15, at Gillespie's Grove and Walden Driving Park. 

Highly artistic booklets have been issued since 1894, under the super- 
vision of William C. Hart. The fifteen volumes are classified as follows: 

1894 — Borden's Home Farm. 1904 — Gems from the Hudson. Famous 

1895 — Historical. Horses of Orange Countj*. 

1896— Tributary Streams of the Wallkill. 1905 — The Hudson and Wallkill Rivers. 

1897 — Indian Localities and Hostilities. City of Middletown. In Art and 

1898— Battle of Minisink. Story. 

1899 — Churches of the Wallkill Valley. 1906 — Lake Mohonk, profusely illus- 

1900 — Beautiful Landscape Views. trated. Orange Blossoms and 

1901— The Wallkill Valley at Gettys- guests at Gettysburgh. Walden 

burgh, Orange County Agricul- in Profile. The Catskills and 

tural Society, Mountain Drives Queenly Hudson, 

of Mohonk. 1907 — Wallkill Valley Farmers' Asso- 

1902 — Through the Valley of the Wall- ciation. Lake Mohonk Snow- 
kill, profusely illustrated. bound. 

1903 — Companion Volume of 1902. 1908 — The Hudson River. 



ORANGE CUL'XTV AGRICULTURE. 



o^i 



Officers, 1889- 1907. 
President. I'lcc-Prcsident. Secretary. 
j889_W. C. Wclkr, Cliairnian. W. C. Hart. 

1900 — W. C. W'eller. j. K. Brown. " 



Treasurer. Superintendent. 
X. J. Fowler. ]. \V. Decker. 



1891— 
1892— 

1893- 

1894— J. B. Haddeii. 



R. B. Crowcll. 
Ci. \V. Folsom. 
J. D. Mould. 
I. P. Covert. 
H. N. Smith. 



\V. H. Gillespie-. 
W. C Hart. 



C. R. Fowler. 
A. S. Embler. 
A. J. Fowler. 



1895- 

1896— 

1897- 

1898— 

1899 — " " " " " " " " S. H. Knapp. 

1900 — I. W. Decker. " " " " " " " " 

1901 — " " " " " " " 

1902— F. B. Walker. W. H. Dunn. 

1903 — L. M. Borden. J. W. Decker. '' " " " " " 

1904 — I. W. Decker. A. Wiley. " " " " " " 

ux)5 — " " J. K. Brown. " " " " " 

1906 — " " " " " " " " A. Wiley. 

1907— " 

THE GRANGE IN OR.VNGE COUNTY. 

This modern organization in the rural districts of New York State is 
strongly represented in this county. There are twenty-two subordinate 
Granges with a total membership of 2.470 in the county, as reported by 
delegate John Y. Gerow at the last annual session of the State Grange, 
and all are in a most prosperous condition. A Pomona Grange, which is 
the link between the subordinate granges and the State organization, was 
formed at Washingtonville, April 18, 1903, with 118 members. This 
has now about 600 members. Mr. (k-row was the chairman for three 
years and was presented with a gold badge at his resignation. Albert 
Manning is now the master. I-'ive of the subordinate granges in the 
county own their halls, three own buildings and conduct cooperative stores 
successfully. 

The first Grange organized in the county was at Unionville, June 2y, 
1901, with thirty-four charter members. It is known as the Minisink Xo. 
907. W. A. Lain was the first master. The membership has increased to 
168. Alva Case is the present master. The ^Fonroc Grange was the sec- 
ond in order of date. l)eginning December 12. i(>oi. It is Xo. 911 : there 
were only eighteen cliarter members, which was increased lo 147. George 
S. Bull was the first master and James Seaman is now at the head. 
Grange Xo. 912 started at Washingtonville. with John \Y. Gerriw as 
master. TWi< r,rangc now operates a general -tcire. Little llritain. 



652 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Grange No. 913 was next started with twenty members, Charles E. Knapp 
being the first master. This has now 115 members and WilHam D. 
Moores is the present master. The Brookside Grange No. 936, began 
November 18, 1902, with a membership of twenty-two, which has been 
increased to 173. Clarence O. Warford is the present master. The 
Mountainville Grange, No. 946, was started December 12, 1902, with 
twenty-two members. C. E. Hand is now the master. The Warwick 
Grange, No. 948, was organized January 6, 1903 with twenty-nine mem- 
bers, which has since been increased to ninety-six. C. M. Houston is the 
master, and a general feed, coal and farmers' supply store is operated. 
The Hamptonburgh Grange, No. 950, began January 7, 1903, with thirty- 
nine members, which has been increased to 115, with S. P. Watkins as 
master. The Stony Ford Grange, No. 951, was organized with twenty- 
one members, January 8, 1903, Ebenezer Bull having been the master 
from the first, the present membership being forty-five. The Goshen 
Grange, No. 975, began March 25, 1903, with nineteen members, which 
has been increased to 137. William Hughes is the master, and a general 
store is operated with an extensive trade. The Cronomer Valley Grange, 
No. 982, built a large meeting hall in 1907; Nat C. Barnes is the master. 
This Grange was organized, June 20, 1903, with twenty charter members. 
Mr. Dewitt C. Osborn was the first master. There are now 151 members. 
Grange No. 916 was organized at Montgomery, February 11, 1902, with 
thirteen charter members. George Van Alst was the first master. The 
present membership is 148, and Harry Tweddle is master. The following 
additional Granges in the county were organized in the order indicated 
by the number of each : 

983 — Present Master, G. L. Sayer, Middletown. 



984- " 


A. C. Bull, Chester. 


lOOI — " 


J. R. Feagles, Pine Island. 


1002— 


' W. E. Weller, Bloomingburg. 


1003— " 


' Frank Remey, Slate Hill. 


1005— " 


' H. T. Baker, Thompson's. 


1014 — 


W. H. Burger, Pine Bush. 


IOI8— " 


' J. W. Eaton, Westtown. 


1020 — 


J. G. Fuller, Otisville. 


1053— " 


J. 0. Goble, Florida. 



The Patrons' Fire Insurance Company of Orange and Ulster counties, 
has issued policies to the amount of $3,600,000, and it is said to have saved 
the policyholders $250,000 in the past four years. 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY 653 

CHAPTER XXWTT. 
JOURNALISM L\ ORANGE COUNTY 
By W. T. Doty, 
first appearance. 

FROM the accessible records it seems that tlie ''art preservative" 
entered Orange County by way of Goshen in 1788. It appeared 
next in Newburgh in 1895, at New Windsor in 1799, at Mont- 
gomery in 1806, New Vernon in 1833, Slate Hill in 1834. Middletown, 
in 1840, Port Jervis in 1850, Warwick in 1845, Pine Bush in 1868. Wal- 
den in 1869, Cornwall 1871, Monroe 1882, Cornwall-on-Hudson in 1888. 
Chester 1888, Highland Falls 1891, Washingtonville 1899. 

At first thought it appears more probable that Newburgh was the first 
port of entry, from the fact that tlie latter early felt the contact of the 
civilization advancing up the Hudson — {practically the only highway into 
the great unknown interior prior to, during, and immediately following 
the American Revolution; and also as, during the Revolution, Samuel 
Louden followed the retreating footsteps of the American forces from 
New York City to I-"ishkill. printing or issuing, at convenient times, the 
Nczi.' York Packet This was issued, it appears, at Fishkill. Why not in 
Newburgh. where so many great events in connection with the Revolu- 
tionary ])criod occurred? 

However. Goshen seems to have been a hamlet or village as early as 
1714, while Newburgh's first settlement was aboiu 1710. and the records 
accord to the old county seat the honor of housing the first printing office 
in Orange County. 

In 1788 David Mandeville and David M. We'^cott issued the GosJicii 
Repository. That they were men of some literary ability is surmised 
from the fact that thev were connected with the Goshen Academy — that 
ancient and honorable seat of learning — an institution of which, aNo. 
Goshen should feel a thrill of pride. 

The office of the Repository was. in 1793. near the court house. The 
Repository was sold to John G. and William Heurtin. in 1800. at which 



654 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

time its name was changed to the Oraiigc County Patriot. In 1801 
Gabriel Denton secured the interest of WilUam Heurtin, and in 1803 
Denton sold his interest to William A. Carpenter, and the name of the 
paper was changed to that of The Friend of Trnth. The year following 
it again changed owners and names, when Ward M. Gazlay became its 
publisher and it became the Orange Eagle. The next year (1805) the 
oftice was biu^ned and Mr. Gazlay removed the remains to Newburgh, 
where the paper, in union with J'he Recorder of the Times, which Mr. 
Gazlay purchased, became the Political Index, and this lived until 1829. 

According to the record the second journalistic venture in the county 
was in 1795, when the Nezvburgh Packet appeared, printed at Newburgh 
by Lucius Carey, and in 1797 it became The Mirror under David Dennis- 
ton. Denniston had purchased the paper of Carey (1797), in which year 
it was announced that the paper was printed by Philip Van Home. In 
1798 Joseph W. Barber was the printer, and he advertised, "also. Print- 
ing and Book Binding carried on by David Denniston." The Mirror was 
absorbed (1804) by the Rights of Man, and the latter by The Recorder 
of the Times in 1805. 

In 1799 we hear of the New IVhidsor Gazette, through the removal of 
a paper of that name from New Windsor to Newburgh, by Jacob Schultz. 
How long it had existed at New Windsor is now purely conjectural, but 
as most of the newspapers of that early period were sort of birds of 
passage, it is assumed that the year 1799 witnessed the Ga::ette's hatching 
at New Windsor and its fledgling tiight to Newburgh, where it became the 
Orange County Gazette. It became The Citizen when later purchased by 
David Denniston. 

The year 1799 also brougiit forth at Newburgh another publication, 
The Rights of Man, with Dr. Elias Winfield as its sponsor, for whom it 
was "printed by Benoni H. Howell." David Denniston purchased this 
paper and merged in it the Orange County Gazette. We learn that the 
Mirror of 1797 w^as absorbed by The Rights of Man in 1804, and then the 
Packet, the Mirror, and the Gazette disappear. The Mirror and the Citi- 
zen espoused the patriotic political works and probably the religious doc- 
trines of Thomas Paine, who wrote "The Crisis,'' "Common Sense," and 
""The Rights of Man." while the Gazette advocated opposite theories. The 
paper. The Rights of Man, which absorbed the Mirror and the Citizen. 
represented the Jeltersonian branch of the Republican party, while the 



JULKXALIS.M IX URAXGE COUXTV 655 

Recorder of the Times, claiming' to be Republican in politics, represented 
the Federalists and Burr, then a l'"ederalist. 

In 1803 appeared at Xewburg-h the Recorder of the Times, by Dennis 
Coles. Then at Goshen the same year, Tlie friend of Truth, under the 
management of Ward M. Gazlay, and in 1S04 at Goshen the Orange 
County Gazette, conducted by Gabriel Denton. It will be seen there were, 
within live years, two Orange County Gazettes in the county — one at New- 
burgh, one at Goshen. As the former metamorphosed itself into the 
Public Index, the Orange Telegraph, the Newhurgh Telegraph and the 
Xezeburgh Register, with short pauses between, it may be that it had 
thrown oft the first epidermis and was emerging in new form when its 
Goshen namesake burst into the sunlight. 

Montgomery was looming up from its settlement in 1721, or soon there- 
after, and in 1810 it was large enough, or felt important enough, to be- 
come incorporated as a village. But as early as 1806 the printer or pub- 
lisher saw an "aching void" in the growing hamlef, to pervade which the 
Orange County Republican was called into existence that year. It was 
'■published for the Proprietors by Cyrus Beach and Luther Pratt." Who 
the "Proprietors" were is not in evidence. 

It is worthy of record right here that this Montgomery journalistic 
venture is the only one, up to that date, that lives to-day. Through migra- 
tion and other changes this Orange County Republican ultimately became 
the Independent Republican, with a permanent abiding place in Goshen. 

That venerable editor and historian, Edward M. Ruttcnbcr, says the 
Orange County Republican was first published "at Ward's Bridge." the 
title of the first post-ofiice in -Montgomery, so called from the fact that it 
was located and kej^t at James Ward's gristmill, where he had thrown a 
bridge across the Wallkill. constituting it one of the most convenient loca- 
tions for the delivery of mail matter. 

The money to start the paper was advanced in equal shares by twenty- 
four "Patriotic citizens of this cor.nty. consisting chiefly of respectable 
farmers and mostly inhabitants of the town of Montgomery." This ex- 
cerpt is from a statement in the paper itself of the issue of June 9, 1806. 
The paper "admitted there was some honesty among Federalists." but 
wa- bitterly opposed to Dewitt Clinton. January 18, 1812, Luther Pratt. 
the publisher then, changed its name to the Independent Republican as 
more clearly indicating its jioliiical policy and view'^. Tt wa< not until 



656 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1822 that it was removed to Goshen, four years after James A. Cheevey 
became its proprietor. He was a P'renchman and a practical printer. 

In 1806 appeared another pubHcation, the Political Index, at Newburgh. 
by Ward M. Gazlay. The latter's Orange Eagle plant at Goshen was 
burned in 1805, and he had removed the remnants to Newburgh, the 
Phoenix emerging from these ashes being the Political Index. The In- 
dex is credited with having, some years later, "apparently consolidated the 
interests of the Republican party." It gave a "hearty support to the ad- 
ministration of Jefferson and Madison, and to the war of 181 2." It is 
further stated that "its political articles were mainly from the pen of 
Jonathan Fisk, one of the most able men of the period." 

In 1829 the Index passed into the ownership of Charles M. Cushman, 
who changed its name to the Orange Telegraph, and later to the New- 
burgh Telegraph. In 1839 ^r- Cushman sold it to Henry H. Van Dyck, 
who, in 1840, sold it to Elias Pitts, who, in 1850, disposed of it to Edward 
]M. R'.ittenber. The latter sold it in 1857 to Joseph Lawson, repurchased 
it in 1859, resold it in 1861 to E. W. Gray, who sold it, in 1864, to George 
M. Warren, he to Isaac V. Montanye in the same year ; he to E. M. 
Ruttenber in 1865; he to A. A. Bensel in 1867; he to J. J. McNally in 
1869, who, in 1874, sold it to Dr. Cooper, of Warwick. In 1876 E. M. 
Ruttenber again became its owner, and changed its name to the Neiv^ 
burgh Register. February 24, 1908, the publication of the Register was 
suspended. 

Here, then, appears the second paper to come down to us from that 
early period, though only after many ups and down and with kaleidoscopic 
changes of titles and owners. Mr. Ruttenber assures us that "Tlte Tele- 
graph, although Democratic at all times, opposed the Albany Regency — 
a fact which led to its purchase by H. H. Van Dyck, or rather the pur- 
chase for him. Mr. Pitts, who had been sent to take Mr. Van Dyck's 
place, very soon fell into the line of thought of his local supporters, and not 
only approved the Regency, but upheld the 'Free Soil' banner of 1848 
with marked ability. In the subsequent changes and revolutions," adds 
Mr. Ruttenber, "in politics it has maintained the Democratic faith." 

An ambitious effort appeared at Goshen in 180S when Gabriel Denton 
launched the Orange County Patriot and Spirit of Scvcnty-six. In this 
publication we recogniz? the third journalistic venture with sufficient 
tenacity of life to come down to our own day, though it, too, had to 



j( )L"k.\".\lJSM I.\ ()UA.\(il-: LUL'XTV. r,-,7 

change its title and character somewhat ere it became the present well- 
known Goshen Democrat. 

l'"rum 1808 to 1820 there seems to be a hiatus. There does not appear 
a single new journalistic venture in that time, although it was in this 
period, in 1812-13, that the Orange County Republican became the Inde- 
pendent Republican, and in 1822 was removed from Montgomery to 
Goshen. Tlie war of 1812, impending, progressing and ending, with 
war's all-demoralizing effects, may account for this cooling of the jour- 
nalistic ardor for twelve long years. 

At any rate, the next new publication to appear in the field — figuratively 
if not literally — was the Orange I-ariner, in 1820, at Goshen. Its founders, 
Williams and Farrand, were graduates, Mr. Ruttenber says, of the Albany 
Plozv-Boy publication. How long the Orange Farmer ploughed through 
the journalistic heather of ( )range County is not now known, but \xq 
never hear of it again. Mr. Ruttenber records that "Samuel Williams, 
the associate of Mr. Farrand. died at Rondout. June 16. 1878. in his 
ninetieth year — the oldest printer in the State, and lor forty years a mem- 
ber of the Baptist denomination." 

In June, 1822, John D. Spaulding began, at Newburgh, the publication 
of the Nezvburgh Gazette. This passed through many owners' hands, 
appearing in 1856, under the management of Eugene W. Gray as the 
Daily Xen's. Later it passed a somewhat checkered career in alliances 
with the Gazette, the Telegraph, the Daily Telegraph (T864). Daily 
Union, same year, the Press (1866), and the Register in 1876. 

The Rev. J. 1\. Wilson began at Xewburgh. in 1824, the publication of 
a religiouN nionthl\- of forty-eight pages, under the title of the Evangeliea! 
Witness. It was devoted to the exposition of the doctrines of the Re- 
formed Presbyterian churcli. and was continued four years, to be suc- 
ceeded ( 1828) by the Christian Statesnwji, which gave up the ghost after 
one }ear's struggle in this cruel, cold worM. 

.An anti-Jackson paper appeared in Xewl)urgh during the campaign of 
1828. It was called The Beacon. Its editor was Ju<lge William IJ. Wright. 

In 1829 the Orange Telegraph appeared at Xewburgh. It was merely 
our old friend, the f'olitical Inde.v. in a new guise, under the tutelage of 
Charles M. l"ushman. who subsec|uently named it the Xewburgh Tele- 
graph. 

A monthlv quarterlv appeared next in \ewl)urgh in Mn\-. 1832, as 



658 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Tablets of Rural Economy. John W. Knevels was the editor. The people 
then, as too often now, had no use for rural or other economy, and the 
quarterly died after a few issues. 

In 1832 appeared another publication — one that time has dealt with so 
kindly that we find it to-day brandishing, as of old, "The sword of the 
Lord and of Gideon." The Signs of the Times was started at Goshen in 
this year by Lebbeus L. Vail as an exponent or expounder of the Old 
School Baptist theology. The first numbers were printed at the office of 
the Independent Republican. Mr. Vail, though born a Congregationalist — 
his father, Isaiah Vail, being one of the founders of the present First Con- 
gregationalist church of Middletown — became an enthusiastic Old School 
Baptist through the influence of his wife, Sally, daughter of Wilmot 
Moore, and her father's family. Like most neophytes, Mr. Vail became 
very earnest, and gave freely of his purse, his time, and his energies, and 
the Signs of the Times soon became a recognized factor in Old School 
Baptist work. This publication was only one of the forms of his con- 
tributions to the cause, with no hope of material reward. Two years later 
Mr. Vail became county clerk. Recognizing in a young enthusiast in the 
Old School Baptist faith an Elijah in the cause and fit to wear the mantle, 
he was forced by civic duties to lay aside, he turned over to Elder Gilbert 
Beebe the entire plant and good will of the Signs of the Times. Mr. Beebe 
removed the office to New Vernon, then a somewhat thriving hamlet with 
a well-appointed Old School Baptist church, with store, post-office, hotel, 
blacksmith shop, and the accessories of a live community. The place is on 
the Shawangunk Kill, on the Orange and Sullivan County line, about four 
miles northwest of Middletown. Mr. Beebe removed the plant again, this 
time to Alexandria, Va., whence he returned with it to New Vernon, and 
in 1847 or 1848 removed it to Middletown, where it still oscillates, as of 
old, the sword of Gideon. Elder Beebe preached to congregations in 
Middletown, Brookfield (Slate Hill), Bloomingburg, Van Burenville or 
Wallkill, and New Vernon. He was an energetic, tireless worker, and 
built up an immense circulation for the Signs of the Times. It became a 
power in Old School Baptist faith throughout the United States, and was 
for years — and is yet — the leading publication in this faith. In the sixties 
Elder Beebe reprinted sermons and Old School Baptist verses in book 
form, taken from files of the Signs. Two volumes were printed and thev 
had great sale. The Signs of the Times, first published as a monthly, be- 



JOURXALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 659 

came a senii-nionthly, whicli it is now, witli iliirty pages and covers. It is 
one of the remarkable and quaint pulilicalions in this country to-day. Its 
contents are a study for the historian, whether of rehgious or secular 
subjects. Whatever its other merits, its very quaintness should preserve 
it from the vandalism of time, the sacrilege of events, and the blasphemy 
of environment. It stands as a monument to the enterprise, the religious 
feelings, enthusiasm, aims and forces of a period and a propagandism 
that seem slowly but surely fading into the twilight of the ages. It is now 
"Published the first and fifteenth of each month by J. E. Beebe & Co., 
Middletown. N. Y.." with Elder F. A. Chick, Hopewell, N. J., and Elder 
H. C. Ker, Middletown, as editors. 

The A'czcburgh Daily Journal was started in 1833 or 1834 by John D. 
Spalding, which he continued until 1843, when he changed the name to 
the Highlaud Courier. After his death, August 22, 1853. Mrs. Spalding, 
liis widow, published it until 1855, when she sold it to William E. Smiley. 
Edward Nixon became its {)roprictor in 1858, and Rufus A. Reed in 1859, 
who changed its name to the Hi_^hlaud Chieftain. 

The name was afterwards changed to the Xezcburi^h Daily Journal, 
which it retains to the present day. On June i, 1861, Cyrus B. Martin 
l)ecame the owner and its whole character at once radically changed for 
the better. Mr. Martin was peculiarly fitted for editorial' duties and under 
his able management tlie paper soon attained a large circulation antl 
eventually gained that high standing and wide sphere of influence, which 
under the wise control of his successors it has ever since retained. 

Mr. Martin remained the owner of the Journal until 1877. when he sol 1 
out to the Messrs. Samuel Ritchie. Lawrence C Bodine and I'rank S. 
Hull. Before the year was up, Mr. Bodine disposed of his interests to 
his partners, and those two gentlemen have managed the paper ever since, 
although their interests are mergerl in the corporation known as the Xew- 
burg Journal Company. 

The Journal is housed in a building owncfl by itself, a handsome, spa- 
cious structure, located on the corner of Smith and Third streets, where 
it maintains one of the most complete printing establishments and b(^ok 
bi"flcrv pb.nts to be found in the coimty. 

The Rcpubliean Banner existed in Montgomery in 1833 or 1834. or in 
both tiiose years, with Calvin F. S. Thomas as its publisher, but that is 
all that seems to be known about it. 



66o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

In 1834 a handsomely printed weekly appeared in the thriving locality 
of Brooklield or Slate Hill, known as the Republican Sentinel, or "the 
Farmers' Protests Against Political Speculation and Dictation." 

The writer has a few copies of the Sentinel, which show it to have been 
a highly creditable publication, in its make-up, its typographical appear- 
ance, and in its literary features. The issue for April 12, 1834, was No. 
6, of Vol. I, and it was "Printed by Tho's P. Evans for the Publisher." 
May 17 the issue was No. 10, and announced that "The Republican Sen- 
tinel is printed every Saturday by D. Yokum for the Proprietor." The 
issue for June 28 was No. 16, and contained the same announcement as 
to the printer, but in no issue does it appear who the editor or publisher 
was. The Sentinel was a five-column folio, improving typographically 
with each issue, and printed from clean-faced brevier or possibly minion 
type. When it ceased to exist no one now living seems to know. 

In 1834, in Newburgh, Wallace T. Sweet issued the National Adver- 
tiser, which was merged into the Nczvburgh Telegraph, though in what 
year is not stated. 

The Reformed Presbyterian appeared in Newburgh March i, 1836, with 
Rev. Moses Roney as editor. It was a mcnddv of thirtv-two pages. In 
1849 he removed it to Pittsburg, Pa. 

In 1840 A. A. Bensel began the publication of Middletown's first re- 
corded newspaper venture. He called it the Middlctouni Courier. It was 
a weekly paper, democratic in politics. In April. 1846, he removed the 
entire plant to Kingston, N. Y., where he started the Ulster Democrat. 

In 1845, i" Newburgh, the Rev. Davi 1 L. IVoudfit began issuing the 
Christian Instructor, a monthly of thirty-two pages. Two years later he 
sold it to the Rev. J. B. Dales, who removed it to Philadelphia. 

So far as records can be found the first publication to appear in War- 
wick was an Old School Baptist journal, the Doctrinal Advocate and 
Monitor. This was in 1845 or 1846, possibly earlier. It was published and 
probably edited by Elder Jewett. In 1846 it was merged with Elder Gil- 
bert Beebe's Signs of the Times. 

Middletown was without a paper from April to July, in 1846. At the 
latter date John S. Brown began there the publication of the Orange 
County News. It was neutral in politics, and Mr. Ruttenber says it was 
hardly deserving the name of a newspaper. It died in 1849, the material 
being purchased by Gilbert J. Beebe for his new paper. 




Q^odeAjU^MMWt^^ry^^ 



JOrKXAl.ISM IX ORAXGE COL'XTV. 66i 

In August, 1848, Gilbert J. Kcebe started in Middlclown the jniblication 
of the Banner of Liberty. It was issued montlily as a conservative journal 
— opposing- all the modem ideas of reform in politics, in religion, in laws 
and in temperance. In 1856 it became a weekly, and espoused the cause 
of the democratic party. In 1856 Mr. Beebe issued the Campaign Banner 
— a sort of auxiliary to the Banner of Liberty. Both were more or less 
pro-slavery in all their utterances; the particular limb of the democracy 
to which they clung being known as "Hunkerism" prior to the Civil War, 
as "Copperheadish" during and after the Civil War. In ante-bellum days 
both papers attained a big circulation for those times — "fully 27,000 
copies," Mr. Ruttenber says. The Banner of Liberty was taken every- 
where in the South and Southwest, and below Mason and Dixon's line it 
was all-powerful. And even north of that line there were many who 
swore by the Great Horn Spoon and the Banner of Liberty. The income 
was great, and had Mr. Beebe been as astute a business man as he was 
aggressive in polemics, he would have been numbered with the exclusive 
few of that day known as millionaires. But Gilbert Judson Beebe was a 
different type of man. Like his venerable father, he had a principle — 
right or wrong, but right as he saw it — and ])elf was powerless against 
his adamantine purposes. 

His father, Elder Gilbert Beebe, was in position to "roll in wealth." He 
liad a great income from his Signs of the Time.<!, and from liis writings 
and books ; he had the machinery of his church to manipulate for his own 
aggrandizement, if he so willed ; he was almost an idol wherever the Old 
School Baptists had an abiding ])lace in this country ; but he disdained all 
sordid allurements, and, armed with his own peculiar interpretation of 
the Scriptures, he lived frugally and pounded his theorems and theological 
dogmas for three and four straight hours every Sunday m one of his 
pulpits, and during the fortnight in tlie columns of his Signs. 

The writer of this knew him well : set type a long time in his ofKce in 
Orchard street. Middletown : fed his jiresses ; helped get out one of his 
book of songs and sermons, and always held the venerable editor-preacher 
in respect if not in absolute awe. Looking back at those days from the 
year 1908. the writer understands better the magnetism which gave Elder 
Beebe his great power among the people. 

This peculiar j)ersonality was not lost in his children. In Gilbert Judson 
Beebe — who made the Banner of Liberty the most powerfid pro-slavery 



662 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

journal for years in ante-bellum days — individuality, aggressiveness, 
polemics, even the most violent dogmatism, were constantly in evidence. 
Not only did he wield a most trenchant, bitter pen, ever dipped in the 
wormwood of invective and the gall of expletives — he was an orator as 
well ; and could work his hearers up to a pitch of frenzy or tears. The 
writer, yet in his teens, was employed on the Banner of Liberty as a 
"compositor" for a considerable time, and had much opportunity for learn- 
ing the characteristics of the man. 

The Banner of Liberty lost much of its power when the Civil War 
boomed its terrors over the land. Its circulation fell off daily, but the 
editor every week just as religiously sailed into the "Lincoln hirelings" 
with a venom that came near landing him in Fort Lafayette. The writer 
was one of those "hirelings," and, while "sticking type" in his ofiice had 
many doubtless indiscreet arguments with the aggressive editor on the 
issues of the day. Mr. Beebe seemed rather pleased, not to say amused, at 
the temerity of the boy-printer, and gave him opportunity to expound his 
"abolition heresies." 

As the Civil War went on, the paper continually lost prestige, and 
wlien the venerable editor — broken-licarted in the lost cause — died in 1872, 
the Banner of Liberty became homeless. It was bought by the Benedict 
brothers, Thomas E. and Gilbert H., and was removed to Ellenville. The 
writer's recollection is that it was later transferred to Brooklyn, L. I., 
where it ceased to exist. On this point, however, he may err ; however, it 
did not long survive its talented founder. 

Gilbert J. Beebe also, in 1848, started another paper — the Middle town 
Mercury. This paper was less virulent than his Banner of Liberty, and 
being devoted to local news, attained a considerable circulation. In i860 
Mr. Beebe sold the Mercury to James H. Norton, who had been conduct- 
ing the Tri-States Union at Port Jervis. Mr. Norton associated with him 
in this purchase a young printer and ready writer, Isaac F. Guiwits. The 
two were thoroughly practical men, and soon made their personality and 
their good taste vividly apparent in their work. The Mercury was en- 
larged, new type and machinery were installed, and it was not many 
months before the paper began to grow in circulation and in power. It 
got better and neater with each issue : its managers seemed to vie with 
each other in this work. Within five years the Middletozvn Mercury be- 
came famous for being the handsomest newspaper in the United States. 



JOI'KXALISM IX ORAXGE COl'XTV. 663 

For those clays, it was a model of beauty. What is more, it became a 
leading newspaper ; its local news was gotten up the best, much attention 
being paid to this feature — practically an innovation in journalism, strange 
as this statement may appear to newspaper men and readers to-day. Mr. 
Norton was a democrat of the pro-slavery type, and his editorial utter- 
ances during the war were often vitriolic, notwithstanding which the paper 
flourished, many paid-up republican subscribers contributing to its suc- 
cess, admiring its journalistic features while cursing its politics. In 1867 
Isaac V. Montanye purchased an interest in the paper, and in 1868 became 
sole proprietor. In 1869 S. M. Boyd became its owner. In 1873 the Mid- 
dletozi'U Mail was merged in the Mercury, when Dr. Joseph D. Friend 
and George H. Thompson became its editors and owners. Dr. Friend re- 
tired in 1874. In 1878 the Weekly Argus consolidated with the Mercury, 
which became the Mercury and Argus. In 1876 Cornelius Macardell and 
George H. Thompson became proprietors, with ]\Ir. Thompson as editor, 
who continued thus until his death in May, 1904. The Mercury and 
Argus plant remains in the IMacardell family, known as the Argus and 
Mercury Publishing Company, with Cornelius jMacardell, president ; A. B. 
Macardell, vice-president and secretary; A. E. Nickinson, treasurer and 
general manager ; A. B. Macardell, editor ; Henry P. Powers and Horace 
A. MacGowan, city editors. 

In 1849 Thomas George began in Newburgh the publication of the 
Newburgh Excelsior. E. ]\I. Ruttenber purchased this paper in May, 1851, 
and merged it with his Telegraph. 

In January, 1850, appeared the first newspaper in Port Jervis, the 
Port Jerz'is Express. This journalistic venture deserves especial notice 
from the fact that it was started by a colored man. P. H. Miller — the first 
publication of such distinction in Orange County, and possibly in the State. 
The Express was well printed, and ably edited. Init it died in October the 
same year. 

The Middletoii'u .Idrcrtiscy wa< started in Middlelown in 1850 by 
G. J. Beebe. It was a monthly advertising sheet, and lived two 
years. 

In November, 1850, Colonel Samuel Fowler — a leading citizen — started 
the Tri-States Union in Port Jervis. It was a democratic paner. with John 
I. Mumford as editor. Lucius F. ]'>arnes. a rising young lawyer of Mil- 
ford, Pa., purchased the paper and edited it until .\ugust 10, 1854, when 



664 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

he sold it to James H. Norton. The latter sold the paper in 1861, to G. 
W. Allen, of Honesdale, Pa., and Wallace W. Farnum, a deaf mute, 
of Port Jervis. The latter was a practical printer, and remained in the 
office many years. It was under Allen and Farnum that the politics of the 
paper changed from democratic to republican. In 1862 Allen's interest in 
the paper was purchased by Daniel Holbrook, a recent graduate of Har- 
vard College and fresh from the position of principal of the school at the 
House of Refuge, Randall's Island, N. Y. Mr. Holbrook made it a lively 
republican paper, ably maintaining the Union cause during the Civil War 
then waging. September 2^ , 1869, Mr. Holbrook sold the paper to Foster 
& Mitchell, of Chambersburg, Pa. In 1871 the paper was purchased by 
Charles St. John, Jr., William T. Doty, and Alfred E. Spooner. In 1872 
Mr. Spooner's interest was purchased by Erwin G. Fowler. All through 
this year the Union was one of the foremost supporters of the liberal re- 
publican movement that led to the nomination at Cincinnati of the la- 
mented Horace Greeley for President. Soon after Greeley's nomination 
the Union's proprietors issued The Wood-Chopper, a campaign paper 
wdiich was full of fire and enthusiasm, but died with the ambitions of its 
martyred presidential candidate. In January. 1873, Mr. Doty retired from 
the firm to take charge of the Gazette. Mr. Fowler retired from the paper 
later in the same year. In April, 1877, Fred R. Salmon, Mr. St. John's 
brother-in-law, young and fresh from a commercial school, entered the 
office as bookkeeper. He displayed aptitude and business qualities from 
the start — points Mr. St. John quickly recognized — and in 1884 he was 
made a member of the firm, which became St. John & Salmon, and thus 
remained until 1894, when the same members became the Tri States 
Printing Co. In May, 1895, the firm was incorporated as the Tri-States 
Publishing Co., which it remains, though on October i, 1907, Mr. Salmon 
purchased Mr. St. John's interest and became sole owner. 

In 1878 the Tri-States Union was changed from a weekly to semi- 
weekly issue, but within a year or two was changed back to the weekly 
issue, which it continues. In 1871 it was changed from a folio to a quarto, 
which it remains. 

In January. 1873, Mr. St. John started the Port Jeri'is Doilv Union. 
It was issued as a morning paper for a year or two, since which time it 
has been an afternoon paper. It has been edited successively by Ed. H. 
Mott, E. A. Brown, Henrv A. Van Fredenbere:, E. G. Fowler, Fred R. 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 665 

Salmon, Charles O. Young, James Bennet, Charles A. Starr, Merritl C. 
Speidel, and at present by \V. T. Doty. 

On November 26, 185 1, John W. llasbruuck issued at Middletown the 
first number of the weekly Whig Press. In March, 1868, Mr. Hasbrouck 
5old the plant to Moses D. Stivers. In 1870 Albert Kessinger bought a 
half interest in the paper, and the firm was Stivers & Kessinger until 
August, 1872, when the junior member died. In October, 1872, Mr. 
Stivers sold the plant to F. Stanhope Hill, who sold an interest to John 
W. Slauson, and the firm became Hill & Slauson. Mr. Hill .sold his in- 
terest to Mr. Stivers July i, 1873, and the firm became Stivers & Slauson. 
In 1880 Mr. Stivers sold his interest to Mr. Slauson, and Charles J. Boyd 
entered the firm under the firm name of Slauson & Boyd. This continued 
until February, 1906, when the whole plant was sold to the Middletown 
Times Publishing Co., and the familiar old Press lost its identity in the 
Times-Press. It seemed lamentable to see this staunch old paper die. It 
was the pet of that venerable and conscientious laborer in the literary 
field, John W. Hasbrouck, and his estimable wife. Dr. Lydia Sayer Has- 
brouck. Both labored for years, literally side by side, in the editorial room 
and in the work-shop of the establishment, and they had built up a fine 
property. Under its successive changes, in the hands of Messrs. Stivers, 
Slauson and Boyd the Press had become one of the best country news- 
papers in the State. Its plant was very valuable, with the most improved 
machinery, and the whole establishment was shrewdly managed, the 
paper ably edited, and nothing but the menace of a distinguished rival 
could ever have induced Messrs. Slauson and Boyd to consent to the dis- 
posal of so valuable a plant. 

The temperance agitation evidently struck Port Jervis heavily early in 
the fifties, for in June, 1852, J. L. Barlow and John Dow began the pub- 
lication of the Mirror of Temperance. This lived about eighteen months. 

In 1853 another temperance paper appeared in Port Jervis, when John 
Williams issued The Sentinel. It died in 1855. Mr. \\'illiams was a i)ug- 
nacious Englishman, and while his Sentinel was still on guard, he issued 
another temperance paper, in the fall of 1854. which he called The Pre- 
cursor of Temperance. 

With the demise of the latter publication and the Sentinel, in 1855. the 
starting of temperance papers in Port Jervis cca-^ed entirelv. Whether 
this was due to the complete and perpetual reclamation of the place bv the 



066 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

army of temperance agitators that swooped down upon it in the fifties, or 
to the belief that the warfare was utterly hopeless, is not certain. Any 
way, the vanquished (or conquering?) John Williams shook the dust of 
the town from his heels and tarried long enough in Middletown to start 
the Hardware man's Neivspaper, later the Iron Age, in the office of the 
Whig Press. 

In 1855 the Nezvburgh American was issued by R. P. L. Shafer. It had 
a life of only three or four weeks. 

In 1855, at the office of the JVhig Press in Middletown. John Williams, 
who had wrestled with the liquor question in Port Jervis for a few years, 
started out in a new line. He had Mr. and Mrs. Plasbrouck print for him 
a trade journal — one of the earliest ventures of this kind in "the country. 
He called it the Hardzvareman's Nezvspaper, and published it monthly. 
After three years its name was changed to the Iron Age, and it is pub- 
lished yet in New York by David ^^^illiams, son of its founder, and is one 
of the leading trade journals. 

A monthly of forty-eight pages was started in Newburgh in 1855 
by R. B. Denton. It was called the Literary Scraphook. Its life was 
short. 

If the temperance workers had abandoned the western end of the 
county as wholly reclaimed or as irreclaimable, they had an eye or two 
on the eastern end of the district, and in Alarch, 1856. Royal B. Hancock, 
"as agent for an association of gentlemen," started in Newburgh a tem- 
perance paper which he called the Nezvburgh Times. It passed into the 
hands of R. Bloomer & Son, who sold it to Alexander Wilson, he to 
Charles Blanchard, and the latter, in 1867, turned it into the Nezvburgh 
Daily Democrat. The latter failed in a few months. 

In 1856 in the Middletown Whig Press office Mr. and Mrs. Hasbrouck 
began the publication of The Sybil, a fortnightly quarto. It was edited 
by Mrs. Hasbrouck, and was a particularly bright, able, fearless publica- 
tion. It was continued eight years. 

An association of students in Domanski's school in Newburgh. in 1857 
started The Acorn, a small but pretentious monthly of a literary char- 
acter. It lived about one year. 

In the early part of the winter of 1864 Eugene W. Grav began printing 
the Daily Union at Newburgh. It was really the Daily Telegraph, which 
had been suspended for a short time. In 1866 the title of both the weekly 



JO^RXALTS^[ IX OR AXGK COUNTY. 65; 

and daily was changed to the Press. In i&xj the title of Telegraph was 
restored, and in 1876 it became the Register, whicli continued until Febru- 
ary 24, 1908, when it suspended under financial difficulties, and, as one 
paper expressed it, "Too much anti-Bryanism." 

January 27, 1866, Elder Leonard Cox, a practical printer, began print- 
ing Warwick's second paper, which he called the Warivick Advertiser. It 
was a five or six-column folio, neatl}- ])rinted, well edited and newsy. 
To-day it is one of the best edited weekly newspapers in the county. It 
is republican in politics — m fact, has practically always been so. January. 
1869, Elder Cox sold the paper to John L. Servin, and moved to \'ir- 
ginia. April, 1874, it was purchased by Daniel F. Welling. He sold it 
to Stewart & Wilson (August 5, 1876), who sold it to Stewait & Demer- 
cst. The office was burned out January 24, 1879, after wdiich it was 
published by Stewart & Co. Samuel J. Stewart was its editor until 
Hiram Tate came into possession of the property. Mr. Tate was a prac- 
tical printer, and was fresh from the office of ]\Ir. and Mrs. John W. 
Hasbrouck's Whig Press, and had good ideas of what a neat, live news- 
paper should be — as generally had the graduates of Mr. and Mrs. Has- 
brouck's school of practical journalism. It is still in Mr. Tate's pos- 
session. 

Though short-lived, a bright little specimen of ambitious young jour- 
nalism appeared in Middletown in September, 1866. It was called The 
Rising Sun, and was the first venture in this field by Stephen H. Sayer. 
a recent apprentice in the Whig Press office. The Rising Sun was a liter- 
ary effort — it might almost be claimed as one of the earliest of the amateur 
publications, except that its ambitious young editor had higher and more 
mature aims when, out of the environing nebul?e he called into existence 
his little star of hope. It was a four-column folio, printed from long 
primer and nonpareil type — the two tolerable extremes — and was listed at 
fifty cents a year. It was printed in Coe Finch's job printing office at 
Franklin square in the third floor of the building now occupied by the 
Middletown Savings Bank. Mr. Sayer announced that "The Rising Sun 
is not a local paper, but will circulate throughout Maine, Kansas, Iowa, 
etc., with as much profit to subscribers there as in the State of New 
York." The writer set type on the first issue of The Rising Sun, and had 
a sort of godfatherly interest in this promising luminary, and regrets 
that one of the too common cataclysms in the journalistic empyrean over- 



668 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

whelmed the briglit httle orb ere its rays had scintillated a single scintilla- 
tion on either rock-ribbed Maine or bleeding Kansas. 

But Mr. Sayer was not extinguished, even if the light of his little 
Rising Siiii was dimmed forever. He was ambitious, and, what is more, 
determined. When he emerged from this celestial crash, he cast his optics 
over the universe, and discovered Montgomery, and forthwith hied him 
hither, and in April, 1868, issued the first number of the Wallkill Valley 
Times, a seven or eight-column folio, of good appearance, newsy, and 
well edited. In 1869 he issued the Dollar Weekly. Both publications 
passed into the hands of Lester Winfield in 1871. 

In 1869 Mr. Sayer also started the Walden Re e order, at Waldeq. 
Chauncey B. Reed took it in 1870, and issued it as the Walden Recorder- 
Herald. Later he dropped the Recorder, and the paper has since appeared 
as the Walden Herald. 

From these ventures Mr. Sayer went to Deckertown (now Sussex), 
N. J., and started the Sussex Independent, which has always been one of 
the brightest newspapers in New Jersey. After retiring from the Inde- 
pendent, Mr. Sayer joined the Texas colony of the seventies, and spent 
some years in the Lone Star State, farming, writing, editing, and making 
himself generally useful to the inhabitants of the far-away empire of the 
southwest. He and his estimable family returned to the north in the 
eighties, and he is now living in well-earned retirement on the old farm, 
near New Vernon, surrounded by his amiable wife and remarkably bright 
children — the latter now grown to maturity as useful and honored mem- 
bers of the community. 

One of the marvels of success, for a few years, was Wood's Household 
Advocate, a monthly magazine, started in Newburgh by S. S. Wood in 
1867. Later the name was changed to Household Magazine, and it at- 
tained a circulation of 60,000 copies. It died in 1874. 

Lester Winfield started a paper at Galesville Mills, Ulster County, in 
May, 1864, which he removed to Pine Bush in September, 1868, under 
the name of the Pine Bush Weekly Casket. The same month ( September, 
1868), he continued the journey to Montgomery, and called the paper the 
Montgomery Republican. Mr. Winfield succeeded in uniting his Casket, 
his Republican and Mr. Smith's Standard into one publication. May i, 
1869, which he called the Republican and Standard, which is continued to 
this day, as the Montgomery Standard and Reporter. 



JOLKXALISM l.\ UKAXGE CULXTV. 069 

Early in 1869 A. A. Bcnsel started at Xcwinirgh the Home, I' arm and 
Orchard, an eight-page weekly. It was a bright, useful journal, devoted 
1(1 farm topics, and deserved the widest circulation, ilut it died in ilie 
-pring of 1876. 

\\)v'\\ 22, i8()9. James H. Norton, of Middle-low n. lale of the Mercury, 
an 1 William H. Xearpass, of Port Jervis, began the publication in Port 
jervis of the first tri-weekly paper in this county. It was called The 
J:i'cni)ig Gazette. It was a five-column folio, printed from new bourgeois 
type. It was newsy. Ijrighl. chatty, and entertaining from the start. 
Within a few- weeks The family Gazette appeared from the same office, 
and was issued weekly. Within a year the latter was enlarged and became 
the Port Jervis Weekly Gazette. The Evening and the Weekly Gazette 
soon attained big circulations, and have since continued to reach a large 
class of readers. Both were neutral in politics for years. Mr. Norton 
retired from the concern in 187 1. Ed. H. Mott, of Honesdale. becoming 
associated with Mr. Nearpass in the publishing and editing of the paper. 
October i, 1872, George A. Clement, a young New York lawyer, pur- 
chased the establishment, and turned it into a Republican organ, support- 
mg (general (irant in his second presidential compaign. July i, 1873. 
William T. Doty, of Port Jervis, and William R. Waller, of Monticello, 
leased the plant. Mr. Doty becoming editor and business manager, an I 
Mr. Waller taking charge of the mechanical department. In 1874. Mr. 
Clement sold the plant to Jesse M. Connor, a Port Jervis merchant, who, 
in turn, disposed of it to Hon. Charles St. John, ex-congressman from this 
district. Soon afterward Mr. St. John sold the plant to Ezra J. Horton, 
of Peekskill. and William T. Doty, and the paper became democratic. In 
1875 the co-partnership between Mr. Horton and Mr. Doty ended, Mr. 
Horton retiring, and in October, 1876, Mr. St. John again became owner 
of the plant for two issues, when he disposed of it to William H. Near- 
pa>s. The paper has since been democratic. W. T. Doty continued as 
editor for several years, being succeeded by James J. Shier, of Middle- 
town, and since his death, by Mr. Nearpass as editor. Associated with 
Mr. Nearpass in the management and ownership of the pa])er was .\hram 
Shinier, A. M. May, James J. Shier, and since the eighties the paper has 
been conducted by the Gazette Publishing Co., with W. H. Nearpass as 
president and editor, Evi Shinier as secretary and treasurer and business 
manager, with Mark \'. Richards as associate e litor. and Jame< Skel- 



6/0 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lenger as city editor. The tri-weekly edition was changed to an afternoon 
daily issue (except Sunday), and to an eight-column folio, January 
17, 1881. 

In January, 1869, Isaac F. Guiwits started the first daily newspaper in 
Middletown. It was issued at four o'clock every afternoon, except Sun- 
day, and was printed at the office of the Middletown Mercury, then 
located over what is now Hanford & Horton's news store on North street. 
It was a five-column folio, printed from brevier type, and was a model 
of neatness, sprightliness, and paid much attention to local news. Air. 
Guiwits was an elegant writer, brimful of wit — a thorough all-round 
printer and "newspaper man," an apt pupil of the master journalistic 
mind, James H. Norton, and he made the Daily Mail a bright paper. But 
it didn't pay, as a daily, and April 28, 1869, Mr. Guiwits issued the Mid- 
dletozvri Mail, a weekly publication of six columns (folio), this succeeding 
the Daily Mail. Some months later Mr. Guiwits sold the Mail plant to 
Evander B. Willis, a printer, stenographer, and reporter. A year or two 
later Dr. Joseph D. Friend became the owner of the Mail. In 1873 he 
made an arrangement by which the Alail was consolidated with the Mer- 
cury, when Dr. Friend and George H. Thompson became the proprietors 
of the combined publication. The Mail was a local newspaper, with demo- 
cratic tendencies, but it never cut much of a figure in the newspaper life 
in the county, after it ceased to be a daily, though Mr. Guiwits and Dr. 
Friend were both fine writers, and Mr. Willis was popular. Dr. Friend, 
the genial, the easy-going, the friend, has long since passed away, but his 
memory is ever green with the. few w^io yet linger — aye few — who asso- 
ciated with him in journalism in those early days. Mr. Guiwits went to 
Kansas City, and Mr. Willis to California. 

The second experiment of publishing a tri-weekly paper in Orange 
County began in the office of the Orange County Press when Stivers & 
Kessinger (Moses D. Stivers and Albert Kessinger), on May 24. 1870, 
issued the first number of the Middletown Evening Press. October 26, 
1872, the tri-weekly became a daily under the name of the Middletown 
Daily Press, and continued until merged with the Middletozvn Times in 
February, 1906, under the name of the Middletozvn Times-Press. 

The first journal to be issued at Cornwall, or Cornwall-on-the-Hudson 
was called The Cornzvall Paper, a Local Record of Things Nezv and Old. 
It was published by P. P. Hazen, of Cornwall, in conjunction with A. A. 



JOL'RXALISM IX URAXGE COUNTY. 671 

Bensel, of Xewburg-, issue No. i appearing April 15, 1871. So far as 
known no other issue of the paper ever appeared. 

May 24, 1875, Miss S. J. A. Hussey started the Conizcall Times, which, 
lived six years. 

In 1875 Isaac \\ ]\Iontanye started the Middlctoivn Argus, a weekly 
paper. It was nierged with the Mercury in 1876, and January 2j, 1876, 
the Daily Argus came forth and still does valiant service. The Daily 
.Irgus \\a< started by Cornelius Macardeil. Sr., who had money as well as 
brains, and he made the Argus and the Mercury live democratic j^apers 
George H. Thompson, who soon after leaving college became connected 
with the concern, and his ready pen and many other good newspaper 
qualities, soon won the attention of Mr. Macardeil, who installed him as 
editor, which position he retained to his death. Th.e present editor is A. 
B. Macardeil. 

An association of printers in Xewburgh in October, 1875. started the 
Daily Penny Post, as a representative of labor and union interest^;. While 
the Post was struggling for existence the Daily Mai! was started by a 
rival organization, in 1876. In June of the latter year the Post was tlis- 
continued, and having evidently accomplished its purpose, the Mail 
merged, in 1877, with the Register. 

It was in 1876 that the Newhurgh Register came into existence, with 
many vicissitudes and owners, as previously explained, but finally emerg- 
ing from the Telegraph under the able management of the lamented El- 
ward ]\I. Ruttenber. The Register later passed into the hands of Herbert 
P. Kimber & Co., who made of it a bright, newsy, democratic paper. Suc- 
ceeding Mr. Kimber as editor were John A. Mason, Francis \\'illard and 
A. L. MofTatt, the latter of whom fought the Bryan element of the demo- 
cratic party so vigorously that his retirement from the paper in 1907 was 
a matter of much rejoicing in the ranks of the reigning element of the 
party in Orange County. The recent editor of the Register was John V . 
Tucker, whose utterances were evidently more in harmony with the views 
of the democratic county committee. But the Register suspeu'^e 1 publi- 
cation February 24, 1908. 

In 1877 the Cornii'all Reflector was started by John Lee. Later H. H. 
Snelling became editor. The paper lived until the latter part of iSSr. 

In 1879 James C. Merritt started the Cornwall Mirror at Highlan 1 
Falls. In 189s it was merged witli the Comical! Local. 



672 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

On April 4, 1880, appeared in Port Jervis the first number of ihe Sun- 
day Morning Call. It was a five-column quarto, neatly printevl, ably edited, 
and destined, as its first number indicated, to make a stir in local social, 
political and religious circles. It was published by Erwin G. Fowler and 
A. L. Moffatt, with Mr. Fowler as editor. The latter was bright, witty, 
ready and fearless^ and he girded on his editorial armor and leaped into 
the arena of local polemics with an ardor and a fearlessness that, for a 
time, set the town in a furor. He attacked the validity of the bond issue 
for the Monticello railroad, and came near having the bonds repudiated 
by the people in accordance with court decisions in similar cases. His 
iconoclasm aroused the frenzy of those most exposed to his vitriolic as- 
saults, and they sought to muzzle his Call, with the result that t'le last 
issue of his fearless paper appeared in December of the same year. 

April 23, 1881, appeared in Middletown the Liberal Sentinel, an inde- 
pendent weekly quarto-, with John W. and Mrs. Lydia Hasbrouck as 
editors. The paper was never profitable to them, but it enabled these two 
benevolent people to again take up, for a time, the battle for human 
rights — a struggle in which they had practically sacrificed the bloom of 
their youth and the fruition of years. Mr. Hasbrouck has gone to his 
reward, after a life of struggle, in his own quiet, unassuming way, with 
the adverse forces of environment for the betterment of humanity. His 
noble, self-sacrificing companion through years, yet lives, a martyr to 
conventionality, a lover of the good, the pure, the true. May her declin- 
ing days be as peaceful and as beautiful as the summer flowers that shed 
their fragrance and their luster around her own beautiful habitation on 
Linden avenue's fair lawn. 

On the eighth of September. 1881, was issued at Port Jervis in the 
oftice of the Tri-States Publishing Co., the first number of the Orange 
County Farmer. It was a six-column quarto, and, as its name indicates, 
was devoted to the interests of the farmer, dairyman, and pomologist. 
The idea was one of the many conceptions of the fertile brain of Charles 
St. John, Jr., then the head of the Tri-States Publishing Co., a former 
supervisor of the town of Deer Park, a son of former Congressman 
Hon. Charles St. John, a young man who, ere he was out of his teens, was 
a leader in all the athletic sports of his native village. Port Jervis, active, 
energetic in business, and brimful of plans and ideas. He was one of 
the leaders in the county in the liberal republican movement that, in 1872. 



JOLRXALISM IX URAXGE CUL'XTV. 673 

led to the nomination of Horace Greeley for President, and made the 
Tri-Stgtcs b')iioii and the campaign publication, The IVoodcIioppcr, red- 
liol champions of the Sage of Chappacjua. In starting the Orange County 
Farmer Mr. St. John builded far better than he knew, as subsequent 
events proved. The first number was, editorially, the joint production of 
himself and his brother-in-law, hred R. Salmon, then a bookkeeper in the 
office of the Tri-States Union. Mr. Salmon had been active in the busi- 
ness department, but developed talent m connection with reportorial and 
editorial lines, and did some clever agricultural work for the first and for 
many succeeding issues of the Farmer. He was for some time known as 
managing editor of' The Farmer, though after the first issue Erwin G. 
Fowler, late of the Sunday Call, and a former editor of the Daily Union 
and of the Middletown Press, and a lover of horticultural matters, be- 
came the active editor of 'The Farmer, with jMr. Salmon as the business 
manager. Under this joint control, with more or less supervision of Mr. 
St. John, The Farmer rapidly grew in popularity, in circulation, and in 
influence. In 1890 Mr. Fowler and John J, Dillon, then connected with 
the office and now manager of the Rural New Yorker, purchased The 
Husbandman, an agricultural paper at Elmira, and both retired from 
The Farmer. Mr. Fowler's successor was William T. Doty, and Mr. Dil- 
lon's successor in the business department was William F. Wade, now of 
the Rural A'eiv Yorker. In 1894 Mr. Fowler was again on The Farmer's 
editorial staff and remainetl until 1897. when declining health forced his 
retirement — and his death in 1904 deprived the literary and agricultural 
world of one of its brightest workers, the social world of one of the most 
amiable, lovable, benevolent members, and Orange Countv's musical set 
an able leader. 

Mr. Fowler's successor on The Farmer was Henry A. Van Fredenberg, 
for years editor of the Milling World and the Lumber JJ'orld. both of 
Ikiffalo. Mr. \'an Fredenberg was born in Montagvie. X. J., was edu- 
cated in the schools of Port Jcrvis, early became a school teacher, and had 
charge of the schools at Sussex fthen Deckertown ). N. J., when he en- 
tered the editorial harness on the Sussex Indef'endent, and developed rare 
talent, which quickly secured his recognition as a writer, a paragrapher, 
reporter, and editor. When he was called to the editorial chair of the 
Orange County Farmer he had years of editorial experience, was a bo- 
tanical scholar, a marveliMis linguist, a proficient mathematician, had a rare 



674 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

knowledge of chemistry, geology and pomology, and was a careful student 
in dairy and agricultural matters generally. That The Farmer ha^ pros- 
pered beyond all expectations under his wise and able editorial manage- 
ment is not saying too much. Started as a county agricultural paper, it 
steadily grew out of its local bounds into State reputation, and then into 
national and now into international importance, with a circulation now 
(March, 1908), quoted at 25.000, with subscribers in almost every civilized 
country in the world, besides going into every State in the Union. It is 
quoted everywhere, its editorial utterances and contributions are trans- 
ferred to other tongues, and it is recognized as one of the leading dairy 
journals of the world. This marvelous growth and influence outside its 
own county led its managers to change its title in 1897, when it became 
The Nezv York Farmer, as more expressive of its character and the scope 
of its work and operations. At this time (March, 1908), Mr. Van Fre- 
denberg is still the editor, and The Fanner is now a seven-column quarto, 
issued on Wednesday of each week. 

In 1882 James J. McNally, the veteran newspaper man of Orange 
County, started at Monroe a weekly seven-column folio, the Monroe 
Herald. In 1888 he started at Goshen the Goshen Nezvs, and printed both 
papers at Goshen until the spring of 1892, when he died, and both 
publications ceased. 

In 1883 The News was started in Middletown as a Sunday paper by 
that veteran journalist, James H. Norton. Associated with him was 
Charles H. Conkling, a practical printer, and later W. T. Doty, whom Mr. 
Norton induced to take a hand in the editorial work. The Nezvs took an 
active interest in exploiting the farmer's interests during the famous 
"milk war" which waged in that year, when milk was spilled copiously in 
the Middletown streets and elsewhere, when encountered in surreptitious 
transfer to some unpopular dealer. The Nezvs was an eight-column folio, 
nicely printed, and attained a considerable circulation. Mr. Norton, and 
later Mr. Doty, retired from the concern, and the material was sold to 
Mrs. Hasbrouck, later to Lawyer Reid, who issued a few copies of TJie 
Jeifersonian, then to Isaac V. Montanye, who issued a few numbers of a 
labor paper, and finally the material was purchased by James J. McNally, 
to be merged with the Monroe Herald and the Goshen Nezvs. 

In 1885 St. John & Salmon issued at Port Jervis The Farm Guide, a 
monthly of eight, twelve and sixteen pages. It did not live long. 



JOl'RXAI.lSM IX ORAXCiE COIX'IA'. C^jc^ 

In June, 1885, George F. Ketchum started at Warwick the IVarivick 
rallcv Dispatch. It was an eight-column foho at first, and was afterward 
enlarged to a nine-column folio which it is at present. In 1889 a half 
interest in the paper was sold to I. W. Litchfield, Mr. Ketchum retaining 
control of the editorial policy. In 1894 Mr. Litchfield engaged in other 
business, Mr. Ketchum taking over his interest, which he still retains as 
sole controller of the paper and its policy. The Dispatch has always been 
democratic in its politics, and for some years has been the leading — in 
fact, the main or only — exponent of the aggressive democracy represented 
by the Bryan forces in that party. Mr. Ketchum has been for several 
years chairman of the democratic county committee, and that he has 
proven himself an able editor and sagacious, fearless leader is evidenced 
by the growth in popularity of his paper, and the endorsement in growing 
aggressiveness of his course as leader of the democracy of the county and 
chairman of the county committee. 

The Daily News was started in Xewburgh as a penny daily, in 1885, by 
William H. Keefe, who had been for many years the city editor of the 
Nezi-'burgh Daily Journal. The paper had its inception amid modest sur- 
roundings, but what its founder lacked in material resources, however, 
he made up for in aggressiveness, enterprise and versatility. The vigorous 
style of the newcomer in the journalistic field caught the ])ublic fancy at 
the very start, and the paper soon attained a large circulation and became 
a financial success. 

William H. Keefe died in February, 1901, and the business was car- 
ried on by the Xewburgh News Printng and Publishing Co., which h.ad 
been organized several years prior to his death. Mr. F. W. Wilson is its 
present able editor. 

The A'ezi's soon outgrew the meager mechanical i.'tcilities and restricted 
surroundings amid which it first saw the light, and in 1902 the plant was 
moved to its present home in the handsome building at 40 anrl 42 Grand 
street, which it purchased and remodelecl for its own purpose. The in- 
stallation of a still more modern and up-to-date eciuipment marked the 
beginning of a new era in the history of the paper, and successful as it 
had been up to that time, it has been still more so since. 

The Ncivhurgh Daily Xcws of to-day is concededly one of the leading 
newspapers of the Hudson River valley, not only in circulation, but also 
in influence. It is splendidly equipped, and is not surpa.ssed by any news- 



6/6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

paper in a city of equal size anywhere. Its plant represents a large in- 
vestment of capital and it carries on its pay-roll upwards of fifty em- 
ployees. 

The handsome building, the modernly equipped plant, the large circula- 
tion and volume of advertising all indicate that the A'czvs enjoys the sup- 
port and large patronage of the community in which it is published and to 
which it is a distinct credit. 

The Daily Evening Press was established in Newburgh in 1888, as a 
democratic organ, by James G. Dunphy. Mr. Dunphy was born in New- 
burgh, August 21, 1842, and learned his trade under the late E. M. Rut- 
tenber. For many years he conducted the Press with an ability which 
brought success and secured it a great influence throughout the county. 
After a considerable period of prosperity, however, a blight seemed to 
fall upon the printing plant, and although for some time Mr. Dunphy 
struggled bravely against ever-increasing obstacles, he was finally obliged 
to give up the losing fight, and the Press joined the large company of 
other Orange County organs which had flourished for a season and then 
passed silently from the scene. 

In 1887 St. John & Salmon started in Port Jervis a small quarto called 
Sunbeams. It was a semi-humorous publication, but the quality or 
quantity of its revelry failed somehow to attack the risibles of a 
sufficient clientele of the American public, and its weary publish- 
ers concluded to let the prosaic citizens plod on in their own dull, flat, 
Boetian way. 

In 1888 N. E. Conkling & Co. started at Chester the Orange County 
News, a weekly, six-column folio, with N. E. Conkling as editor. It was 
an independent paper, giving much attention to local news. At times the 
paper published editions for Unionville and Pine Bush. In February, 
1908, the plant was sold to J. B. Gregory, and removed to Monroe, where 
the latter started the Ramapo Valley Gazette, March, 1908. 

In April, 1888, the Cornzvall Local appeared at Cornwall-on-Hudson, 
under the management of H. A. Gates. In September. 1889, he disposed 
of the plant to C. P. Brate, of Albany, who installed his brother-in-law, 
Thomas Pendall, a practical printer and bright writer, as editor and i)ub- 
Hsher. In June, 1892, the Local came under the management of Lynn G. 
Goodenough, by whom it is still conducted. The paper was classed as in- 
dependent politically until it came into Mr. Goodenough's possession. In 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 677 

1896 he made the Local a repubhcan paper, and as Mich it became a useful 
and inlluential member of Orange County re])ubHcan newspapcrdom. 
Recently the name of the paper became the Local-Press, as more signifi- 
cant of a newspaper than the name Local. In 1895 Mr. Goodcnough pur- 
chased Mr. Merritt's right, title and good will in the Cormvall Mirror, 
and consolidated that publication with the Local. 

In 1887 the W allien Citicen came into existence. It is a six-column 
quarto, republican in politics, well edited by J. II. Reed, and is a newsy 
and meritorious publication. 

A valuable monthly publication was begun in Port Jervis in 1888, when 
Church Life was issued. It was printed under the auspices of the Re- 
formed church of that place. It usually appeared in eight pages, with two 
and three broad columns to a page. Its work was largely that of gather- 
ing up local historical matters, and one of its most valuable contributors 
was William II. Nearpass, whose penchant in that direction enabled him 
to furnish much valuable historical information that otherwise might 
have been lost to all generations. Another contributor was the Rev. S. 
W. Mills, D.D., for many years pastor of the Reformed Church of Deer 
Park. The paper was issued for about fifteen years, but why it was al- 
lowed to cease no one connected with the church seems to know. It was 
printed at the Gazette ofifice. 

The Orange County Dairyman was started at Middletown in the office 
of the Mercury and Argus, in December, 1888. The publishers were Mac- 
ardell, Thompson and Harrett (Cornelius Macardell, Sr., George H. 
Thoinpson, and Leon I5arrett. the artist). Its editor was W. C. Cairns, of 
Rockland, Sullivan County, better known as "Rusticus." The Dairyman 
was a five or six-column quarto. It never became profitable, and went out 
of existence in January, 1890. 

The only Sunday paper of the four or more started in this county that 
seemed to have vitality enough to come down to our day was the Telegram 
of Newburgh. It was started in 1889 by Edward ]\I. Ruttcnbcr. the ven- 
erable and learned printer, editor, author and historian, who lately ])assed 
to his great reward, mourned by all, and beloved and revered by those 
who knew him best. The Telegram is now published by J. \\'. F. Rutten- 
ber, son of its foimder. Though started as a Sunday paper, it is now is- 
sued on Saturday, and is known as The Keidmrgh Telegram. It is ablv 
conducted, as it always has been. A free lance in principle, it is fearless 



678 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in its assaults, and sometimes makes things very interesting for residents 
of the Hillside city and its purlieus. 

One of the publications that made a sensation at its start- 
ing, and during its entire career was a subject of wide interest, 
was called The Conglomerate. It was " started June 15, 1890, by 
patients in the State Homeopathic Hospital at Middletown. The first 
number was a four-column folio, but it soon grew to a quarto, and its cir- 
culation increased until, at its zenith, over 3,000 copies were issued. It 
circulated in all parts of America, had subscribers in New Zealand, and 
in fact in nearly every country, and its articles were copied everywhere. 
The Conglouieratc stood for reform in lunacy matters, and for this reason, 
and because of its too outspoken policy against the State's lunacy commis- 
sion, the authorites caused its suspension. It was gotten out entirely at 
the State Hospital, where a fully-equipped newspaper and job-printing 
office was established by the patients under whose tutelage it was called 
into existence. Its pages were full of bright things. Not only were its 
editorials able, but its contributions were from brilliant minds, the names 
of whose writers, for obvious reasons, are withheld. It ceased publication 
in 1897, after a brilliant career, during which it was eagerly sought, read 
with avidity, and was a force for good throughout its whole brief career. 

On the afternoon of April 29, 1881, appeared in Middletown one of 
the county's — aye, one of the State's — marvels of journalistic success 
under the title of the Middletown Daily Times. The first numbers were 
issued from the Hasbrouck printing office in the Hasbrouck block, corner 
of North and Depot streets, and was a seven-column folio. While it an- 
nounced that Lewis S. Stivers and John D. Stivers were editors and pro- 
prietors, it was understood that ex-Congressman the Hon. Moses Dunning 
Stivers, their father, stood sponsor for the publication, and this able writer 
and shrewd politician soon made his personality evident in every issue of 
the Times. Rapidly did the paper gain in circulation, in influence, and in 
popular confidence. Congressman Stivers was a man of pronounced per- 
sonality, had a way of winning friends and retaining them, and with the 
recent expiration of a successful term in Congress he was in position to 
build up a powerful country newspaper plant. And that is just what he 
did. In this work he was most ably assisted by his two sons, whose names 
appeared at the head of the editorial columns. Lewis S. Stivers was a 
practical' printer, a pressman, and a thorough, all-round mechanical ex- 



JOURXAUSM TX ORANGE COUNTY. 679 

I)ert ; youngs, with a love for tlic trade — credited In- all printers as being 
not only j^ractical but one of the most cai)al)le men in the State. His 
brother, John D. Stivers, had been his father's private secretary all throus:h 
his congressional career, hail accjuitted himself with entire credit, and 
having been "brought up" in a printing office, was well qualified to enter 
the editorial department of the establishment. As a reporter, as one ready 
and quick to grasp the importance of legitimate news, he i)roved his fitness 
for the position by keeping the Times in the lead in its local anrl general 
news departments. It was under such auspicious conditions that The 
Middlctozvn Daily l^iiiics ])resented itself to the public every afternoon in 
the week, except Sunday, and its rapid growth in favor was the fulfillment 
of the auguries of those who best knew its esteemed sponsor and its man- 
agers. Within a short time the establishment was removed to the first 
floor on the James and Henry street corner of the Casino block. Here it 
remained until it was removed to its present quarters at the corner of 
King and Center streets, in the handsome four-story brick building of its 
own, anrl known as the Times building or Stivers block. Here are fast 
prcs.<^s, three Mergenthaler linotype machines and all the necessary ac- 
coutrements to enable the management to issue one of the best daily 
newspapers in this country, outside of the larger cities. Its circulation is 
now daily considerably over 5,000 copies. The death of the Hon. M. D. 
Stivers and later of his son. Louis S. Stivers, removed two of the brightest 
members ni the ( )range Coinily newspaperdom, and necessitated reorgan- 
ization of the Times Publishing Co., which is now known as the Stivers 
Printing Company, with John D. Stivers as president and Dr. ]M. A. 
Stivers as secretary and treasurer. On February 11, 1906, the Middlciozi'n 
Daily Press merged with the Tijiics and the combination has since issued 
as the Middletozi'ii Times-Press. The editorial writer on the Times and 
Times-Press since November i. 1905. has been A. \V. Russell, who've 
bright, well-put comments are one of the features that commend this 
widely-read journal. 

The Netvs of Hii^hlaiids was startc 1 at Highland Falls in 1891. It is 
published on Saturdays by F. F. & A. G. Tripp, and is politically inde- 
pendent or neutral. 

In February. 1892. appeared in Port Jervis the Port Jerz'is Mornitii^ 
Index, the second attempt in that place to establish a morning daily. It 
was started by Isaac \'. Montanye, of Goshen, and Sherwood Rightmyer, 



68o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

his nephew ; was an eight-cokmin folio, independent, or rather neutral, in 
politics, Mr. Montanye being a democrat and Mr. Rightmyer a republi- 
can. The Index was newsy, and well edited, but ceased publication in 
August of the same year. 

Middletown seems to have been the theatre of the sensational in Orange 
County journalism. The Banner of Liberty, the Whig Press (whose ed- 
itor was once caned in the streets for a bit of facetiousness) ; tbe Sybil. 
the Mercury, the Mail, the Standard, the News, the Liberal Sentinel, the 
Labor Advocate, the Conglomerate — each had its day of riotous jest or 
caustic invective that set the town "by the ears" for a time. 

The latest one to enter this field of humor, sarcasm and expletive was 
The Forum, the first number of which was issued February 28, 1897, by 
W. T. Doty and H. W. Corey, and which, within a few weeks, expanded 
into the Middletown Sunday Forum. The first few numbers were printed 
in New York for the publishers by one of the "patent inside" concerns, 
and the warmth of its reception was such that its proprietors felt justified 
in putting in a plant of their own. The office at first was in the business 
office of the Casino building, in the second floor, but was later transferred 
to the first floor of the rear of the same building on Henry street. From 
the unique "greeting" in the first issue, the following excerpt is made as 
characteristic of the purposes, course and whole conduct of the publi- 
cation : 

"There are a number of reasons why we have concluded to publish The 
Forum. First, we want to publish it. Second, there are a number of 
people who don't want us to publish it. Third, there seems need of a pub- 
lication in this city that will call a spade a spade. Fourth, we can stop it 
when we want to. Being able to stop publishing it, if we want to, en- 
courage us in the idea of starting." 

And so it was started, and with a pace that took tbe whole county by 
storm. It was exultant, exuberant, jocular, sarcastic, hilarious, but never 
whining, simpering, brawling or lachrymose. It had features such as no 
other paper in the county had, and all these peculiarities brought it into 
wider and wider notoriety, and the editions printed almost invariably fell 
short of supplying the demand. A leading feature was the "sermons" of 
"Pastor" Corey. There was a vein of the keenest irony in them, gener- 
ally of more or less local application, and the demand for these lively 
satires extended to all classes of citizens — those the severest hit as well as 



JULKXALiSM IX ORAXGE COL'XTV. 68i 

those who, from a safe "coign of vantage," Hked to watch the unique 
assaults. Another of its pecuhar features was the holding up to ridicule 
of the driveling "items" and personals sent in by so many cross-roads 
correspondents of country papers, and wiiich were generally the clever 
work of "Deacon" Peter F. Kaufman, a local real estate man who always 
looked on the "funny side" of all events. The unfortunate and severe 
illness of Mr. Corey necessitated the abandonment of the "sermons." Tlie 
concern was sold (December, 1897 J, to Frank L. Blanchard, of Xew 
York, and later (1898) to W. T. Doty and Thomas Pendell, of Cornwall. 
The latter two ran out a daily, The Morning Forum, for some months, in 

1898. Then Mr. Pendall purchased the outjfit, and transferred it to Mas- 
sena, N. Y. During the two or three years in which The Forum lived in 
INIiddletown it "cut a wide swath," and kept the whole surrounding coun- 
try wondering "what next?" and, had it continued as it began, would have 
landed its proprietors — who were getting a pile of fun out of the pro- 
ceeding — in the ranks of the multi-millionaires or in the penitentiary. A 
unique financial feature of the experiment was the fact that the paper 
more than paid its own way from the very first issue. 

In October, 1898, S. T. Morehouse started at Cornwall-on-Hudson the 
Cornwall Courier. This was conducted by various parties, including Mr. 
Morehouse and his son, Claude, by the well-known writer Creswell 
McLaughlin, Bernard Call, Clark J. lirown, Clayton r.rown. and William 
Clark, and in 1906, ceased to exist. 

The Orange County Record was started at W'ashingtonville. May 17. 

1899, by the Hon. Isaac V. Montanye (since deceased, December 26, 
1906) and his nephew, Montanye Rightmyer. Since the death of Mr. 
Montanye. Mr. Rightmyer is the editor and publisher. The paper is de- 
voted to local news. 

In March, 1908, J. B. Gregory started at Monroe the Ramapo f 'alley 
Gazette. The plant was that of the Orange County A'eii's at Chester, the 
paper started in 1888 by X. F. C'unkling. 

MISCKI.LAXEOUS. 

In addition to the above-mentioned so-called "regular jniblications," 
there have been numerous amateur, church, society, labor, scmi-literarv. 
and other more or less sporadic productions throughout th.e county from 



682 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the time of the introduction of printing into the county at Goshen in 1788 
to the present time. 

An enterprise of importance that may be classed under this heading 
was that of the Frankhn Printing Company, starting in Middletown, in 
1879. ^t ^^'^ head of the concern were James H. Norton, Isaac F. Gui- 
wits, of Middletown and William H. Nearpass, of Port Jervis. A con- 
siderable building was erected on Mill street, Middletown, next to the 
residence of Mr. Norton, and several presses and a finely equipped print- 
ing establishment was installed, to print "patent insides." A big business 
was there built up, and continued until the purchase and absorption of the 
plant by the New York Newspaper Union, and the transfer of the same 
to that city. 

From 1884 to 1886 the United vStates Official Postal Guide for New 
York City was printed by W. H. Nearpass at the Port Jervis Gazette 
office. Anthony M. May & Co. had the contract for this work. 

About 1886-7 lawyer T. A. Reid, of Middletown, amused himself for 
a few months with a paper he called The Jcffersonian. 

.Soon after, the Rev. C'harles M. Winchester, a Free Methodist, came to 
Middletown, probably in 1879, he started a daily ])aper which he called 
The Standard or The Standard-Bearer. It was published in the interests 
of the temperance cause, and made a considerable excitement during the 
eight or ten months of its existence. 

The Pine Bush Herald is a lateral production of the Walden Herald, 
and dates from 1904, with George W. Jamison as editor. 

Tozvn Life was a weekly issued in Middletown from June, 1904, to 
January, 1905, by Nelson W. Dix. It was a humorous publication with 
illustrations by the young publisher, who has a taste and a remarkable 
aptitude for drawing and cartoon work. 

The Orange County Magazine was started in Newburgh in 1906, and 
in the same year the Goshen Independent Republican issued a side edition 
called the Chester Independent Republican, with George W. Ball as editor. 
The first number of the St. Paul's Herald was issued in August. 1S92, 
and each month thereafter for about one year. It contained eight pages, 
9 by 12 inches to a page, and a cover. The Herald was issued in the in- 
terest of St. Paul's M. E. Church, and Middletown Methodism. The 
editor and proprietor was Henry P. Powers, the present City Editor 
of the Middletown Argus, and it was ])rinted at the Times office. 



JOURNALISM IX OKAXGE CULXIV. 683 

The Worker's Advocate was started in Middlctown about 1903, and 
conducted several years by W. H. McCarter, as an independent weekly 
l)apcr. 

The Church Helper was issued under auspices of Drew AI. E. Church 
in Port Jervis, for about one year. The first number appeared in June, 
1889. It was a monthly, devoted almost exclusively to church and tem- 
perance work. 

The Parish Monthly has been issued since 1906 by sanction of the Rev. 
John J. Morris, pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in 
Port Jervis. It is a two-column folio, printed by P. J. Gaudy, Port Jer- 
vis, for .the dissemination of local church news. 

The Golden Rod is a monthly issued by Frederick Arthur Gates, M.A., 
pastor of the Ridgebury Presbyterian church, and printed at the office of 
the Middletown Times-Press. The Associate Editor is Mary C. Clark, 
with a corps of correspondents. It contains 10 pages and a cover, with 
two columns to a page, and with a subscription price of 25 cents a year. 
It has some local news and advertisements, but is devoted mainly to church 
and temperance work. It was started in Jamiary. 1907. 

AMATEUR PUHLICATIOXS. 

The county has seen the birth and death of many amateur publications. 
The first in the county, so far as now known, and believed to be one of 
the first in the whole country, was issued in Port jervis in 1862. It was 
called The Tiger. It was a diminutive production of four small pages, 
and was printed on one of the Adams Amateur presses, one of the first 
made, apd the type, furnished by the same concern, was set by the ener- 
getic young publisher, William Henry Nearpass. The Tiger was issued 
semi-occasionally, to suit the whim or convenience of the publisher, for 
two or three years. Mr. Xearpass was then a clerk in the grocery and 
dry goods store of Charles St. John, at the corner of Pike and West Main 
streets. Mr. Xearpass was then about twenty-two years of age. 

Newburgh has had many of these amateur prints, beginning in 1875. 
Among them may be mentioned the following: Union Jack, American 
Eagle, The Comet, The Indc.v, The Collector, The Packet. The Laurel. 
The Amateur Herald. 

In 1877 Port Jervis had the .linateur Guide, and in 1880 7Vie Cricket. 



684 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Academy Miscellany was started by the Port Jervis high school stu- 
dents in March, 1889, and was discontinued in May, 1895. It was a 
monthly publication, of eight pages, with two broad columns to a page, 
was devoted to school matters almost exclusively, and was a bright pub- 
lication. 

The Ozvl is a bright twenty-page monthly issued by the Middletown 
high school students, and printed at the office of the Times-Press. It 
has been issued for several years, and is a particularly commendable 
school publication, both for the neatness with which it is gotten out, the 
literary character of its contents, and the business-like character of the 
publication. The present editor is James A. Rorty, the business man- 
ager, E. C. Faulkner. 

During 1897 The Union School Journal was published by Merritt C. 
Speidel, now of the Tri-States Publishing Co., Port Jervis, and Hugh M. 
Cox, now a practicing physician in New York City, who were the editors 
and managers. It had 12 pages of 10 by 12 inches, three columns to a 
page, and had a circulation of 500. The publication was devoted to the 
interests of the schools and to matters of a general educational nature. 
The paper had the official sanction of the school authorities, and many 
prominent Orange County writers contributed to it. 

The Publications of the County. 

in ancient goshen. 

The Goshen Repository was issued in 1788, by David Mandeville and 
David M. Westcott, at the Goshen Academy. The nature of the publi- 
cation seems now unknown ; nor is the size of the publication, or its char- 
acter. In 1793 its office was near the court house. In 1800 it was sold 
to John G. and William Heurtin, thus showing a life of twelve years — a 
much better showing than that made by many of its successors there and 
elsewhere. Messrs. Heurtin changed its name to the Orange County 
Patriot, and in 1801 William Heurtin sold his interest to William A. Car- 
penter, when the name w'as changed to The Friend of Truth. In 1804 
it passed to the ownership of Ward M. Gazlay or Gazley, and again its 
name was changed. This time it became the Orange Eagle. A fire in 
1805 in the office singed the Eagle's feathers, but it was enabled to move 



JOURNALISM IX okAXGE COUXTV. 685 

about, and took its flight to Xcwbur.^h, wIktc it bocaiiK' tbc Political 
Index. 

Taking its name from an extinct Xcwburgh paper, Gabriel Uenton, in 
1804, issued the Orange County Gazette. Edward M. Ruttenber traces 
its history to Elliott Hopkins in 1807, to Elliott Hopkins & Co. in 181 1, to 
Elliott Hopkins in 1812. to F. J. & A. D. Houghton in 181 3. and to 1818, 
when it was "printed and i)ublished for the proprietor." XUyw long after 
this it lasted is not known. 

In 1808 Gabriel Denton started the Orani^e County Patriot and Spirit 
of Sez'oity-si.v. It was doubtless a patriotic publication, probably a jingo 
organ firing the American heart for another struggle with Great Britain, 
which came in 1812. In 181 1 it was removed to Xewburgh by Lewis & 
Crowell, where it was published as a "new series." T. B. Crowell became 
its publisher, antl announced that its columns were "open to all parties" 
but were "influenced by none." In 1822 Mr. Crowell moved the paper 
back to Goshen, and sold it to R. C. S. Hendrie. who, February 22, 1834, 
sold it to F. T. Parson, who changed its name to the Goshen Democrat. 
In 1842 Charles Mead associated with Mr. Parson. Xathaniel Webb 
secured Mr. Parson's interest, and the firm became Mead & Webb, and 
later Charles Mead & Son, after the death of Mr. Webb. In 1843 R. C. S. 
Hendrie started the True llhig, two years later selling it to Charles Mead. 
who merged it witli his paper under the title of The Goshen Democrat and 
IVhig. Later the name JJ'hig was dropjied. and the paper remains to this 
day the Goshen Democrat. The firm of Mead & Son came into exist- 
ence January i. 1865. and continued until January i. i8<;2. when the 
elder Mead sold his interest to Edwin L. Roys. William W. Mead and 
Edwin L. conducted the establishment under the firm name of Mead & 
Roys until September i. 1902. on which date they sold the concern to 
J. R. Colburn. of Washington. D. C. Two months later ( Xovember i. 
1902). John F. Barringer. of W'alden. bought the plant and. two months 
later (January 1. 1903). sold it t(i John B. Scott and George V. Gregg, 
who conducted the same under the firm name of Scott & Gregg, until Sep- 
tember I. 1905. on which date Mr. Scott sold his interest to George F. 
Gregg, who lias since been its proprietor. 

In 1820 Williams & Farrand started the Orange farmer. Mr. Rutten- 
l)er speaks of this as the Orange County Farmer, but as the copies now 
in existence bear the title Orange Parmer, the writer is inclined to believe 



686 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the word "County" is a slip of the usually very accurate pen of Mr. Rut- 
tenber. Its founders were graduates of the Albany Plozv-Boy, and aimed 
to make the Farmer an agricultural publication. How long it lasted is not 
known. A well-preserved copy of this Fanner is now in possession of 
Dr. James J. Mills, of Port Jervis. It is volume IV, No. 195, dated 
November 17, 1823. 

About 1822 there moved into Goshen a lusty young pioneer, sixteen 
years of age, under the patronymic of The Independent Republican. This 
stripling was born at Montgomery, May 6, 1806, and there christened 
the Orange County Republican. Under the tutelage of Luther Pratt in 
181 2, in its sixth year, its name was changed to that of the Independent 
Republican, and in 1818 James A. Cheevey became its sponsor, and re- 
moved it to Goshen abour 1822. In 1832 the Independent Republican 
plant was sold to Henry H. Van Dyck, who sold it in 1836 when he 
became State Senator, to Victor M. Drake, then a young printer 
twenty-seven years of age, who had for some time been employed in the 
office, as apprentice and journeyman printer. In 1841 Mr. Drake sold the 
establishment to Moses Swezey, who came to Goshen from Long Island 
in 1834 as a violinist and dancing master. He was a fine penman, a good 
bookkeeper, and an excellent accountant, and became the head clerk for 
County Clerk Lebbeus L. Vail. As editor of the Independent Republican 
he wielded a powerful and caustic pen, and became a power in Orange 
County politics. He was the father of the present Surrogate, John B. 
Swezey. 

In 1846 Mr. Swezey sold the plant to Clark & Montanye. It continued, 
as it long had been, the local organ of the "Hunker" faction of the 
Democracy. Late in the '50's Mr. Clark went to Iowa and started a 
Republican paper. James J. A^cNally purchased the plant in 1853, and 
sold it to Isaac V. Montanye in 1857, o^^y to repurchase it, selling it 
again in 1869 to Edward M. Ruttenber and H. P. Kimber. Mr. Rut- 
tenber retired, and in 1874 Mr. Kimber sold it to Thomas P. McElrath, 
an ambitious New Yorker, who had some fond illusions which he hoped 
to engraft into Orange County journalism. He made friends and foes 
fast and furious — particularly the foes — and in 1876 retired to New York, 
utterly disgusted with journalism in Orange County. 

Then Hon. I. V. Montanye and his son, Lucien, secured the paper. In 
1883 the former retired, and Frank Drake secured an interest in the con- 



JOURNALISM IX GRANGE COLX'IA'. 687 

cern, under the firm name of Alontanye & Drake. In March, 1892, Mr. 
Drake became sole owner, and remains such to-day ( March, 1908). 

The present proprietor of the Independent Republican, Frank Drake, 
is a son of that veteran Orange County journahst, Victor M. Drake, and 
is a "chip of the old block," a good newspaper man. He is making the 
paper newsy, keen, merry and bright. He changed it from a weekly to a 
semi-weekly edition, issued on Tuesdays and Fridays. It is a five- 
column quarto. 

The Independent Republican has not always had things its own way in 
Goshen Democratic politics. In 1843 Hector Vail, son of County Clerk 
Lebbeus L. \'ail, and T. W. Donovan started the Democratic Standard 
under the firm name of Vail & Donovan. The Standard represented the 
"Barn-Burners" or Free Soil element in the Democratic party, and in 
antagonism to the interests represented the "Hunkers" and the Inde- 
pendent Republican. In 1844 Mr. Donovan retired, and Hector Vail 
changed its name to the Goshen Clarion. The Democratic factional fight 
became stronger, and the Clarion had such backers as Lebbeus L. \'ail, 
Asa D. Jansen, James H. Jansen, John B. Booth of Goshen ; Merritt H. 
Cash, Minisink, and Francis Tuthill of Chester. On the death of Leb- 
beus Vail, the Clarion, in 1879 ^^^s discontinued, the subscription list 
going to the Independent Republican and the material to Milford, Pa., 
having been purchased by John M. Heller or James J. McNally, or both, 
and where it became the Pike County Democrat and later the Milford 
Herald. 

One paper devoted exclusively to theological subjects had its origin 
in Goshen, and lives to-day to tell the tale. In 1832 the Si_!^ns of the Times 
was started, by Lebbeus L. Vail, a convert from Congregationalism to the 
Old School Baptist tenets. Between politics and theology Mr. Vail was 
kept pretty busy. Lie w^as a candidate for county clerk on the Demo- 
cratic ticket, and in 1834 was elected. About this time an earnest yoinig 
expounder of Mr. W-iil's new-grounded faith appeared on the scene. Mr. 
\'ail could not very well run a religious journal and the county clerk's 
office at the same time, so he turned the Sii^ns of the Times over, bodv 
and soul, to the youthful preacher, and Fldcr Gilljcrt Bocbe took his \n\7A- 
in a wagon, and landed it in Xew \'ernon, near Mi Idlolown. Thence 
he moved it to .Alexandria, \'a., whence it came to Middletown, where it 
is domiciled to-dav. 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

During the fight in the Democratic party between the "Hard-Shell" 
faction, representing the pro-slavery element, and the "Soft-Shell," repre- 
senting the Douglas, Squatter-Sovereignty, or Anti-Nebraska element in 
the party, in 1854, the Democratic Recorder was started by A. G. Tucker. 
The Recorder had a short life, and the subscription list and materials were 
purchased by James J. McNally and absorbed by his Independent Repub- 
lican. 

The next and last paper to appear in Goshen was the Goshen News, in 
1888, under James J. McNally, which, as already told, passed into that 
ever-open haven of refuge, the portals of the Independent Republican, 
on the death of Mr. McNally, in 1892. 

NEWBURGH AND NEW WINDSOR. 

When New Windsor leaps into the arena of contest with a journal of 
uncertain antiquity, but clearly at the daybreak of journalistic chronology 
in Orange County, she has grounds for contesting the concession that 
Newburgh was second, or Goshen even first, in the honors due to pioneer- 
ism in the printing art. 

E. M. Ruttenber says: "In 1799 Jacob Schultz removed to Newburgh 
the NezU' JVindsor Gazette, the name of which he changed to Orarige 
County Gazette." It is not in evidence when this New Windsor paper 
began and it may have been immediately or long prior to its removal to 
Newburgh. 

But Mr. Ruttenber says the first paper published in Newburgh was the 
Nezvburgh Packet in 1795. The proprietor was Lucius Carey, son-in-law 
of Rev. John Close, Presbyterian minister at Newburgh and New Wind- 
sor. Carey sold the paper to David Denniston in 1797. who changed its 
name to The Mirror, Philip Van Home ( 1797) and Joseph W. Barber 
(1798.) appearing as proprietors. 

In 1796 a pamphlet entitled, "An Apologv^ for the Bible," was printed 
in Newburgh. by David Denniston. It was written by R. Watson, D.D., 
F.R.S. It is said it was creditably printed and bound. 

When the Orange County Gazette emerged from the Nezv Windsor 
Gazette in 1799, Newburgh had two printing shops where books as well 
as papers were printed, and the legend is that the Gazette became The 
Citizen, though Mr. Ruttenber questions this, as none of the issues are to 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 689 

be found. As Mr. Denniston was, about this time, connected with the 
American Citizen, uf New York City, this fact may have given rise to the 
behef that a local Citizen had existed. 

The Rights of Man was started in 1799 by Dr. Elias Winfield. Mr. 
Denniston also purchased this paper, evidently merging it with his Orange 
County Gazette. 

The Recorder of the Times was started by Dennis Cole, in 1803, The 
Mirror was absorbed by the Rights of Man in 1804, and the latter by 
The 'Times, in 1805. Ward M. (iazlay, this year, drove into town with 
the remnants of his Orange Eagle, whose office had been burned in 
Goshen, purchased the Recorder of the Times, in 1806, and changed the 
name to the Political Index, and it lived until 1829, when it became the 
Orange Telegraph and the A'ewbiirgh Telegraph under Charles I\I. Cush- 
man. Under many changes it lived to become, under E. M. Ruttenber, 
in 1876, the Newhurgh Register. 

In June, 1822, John D. Spaulding started the Nezvburgh Gazette. 
Through a succession of owners it came, in 1856. to Eugene W. Gray, 
who, in connection with the Gazette, began the jniblication of a political 
paper whicli he called the Daily Kezvs. In 1864 the name of the Kezi's 
was dropped and Daily Telegraph substituted, and later in the same year 
it became the Daily Union, in 1866 all the previous titles were ('.ropjjel 
and that of The Press substituted, in 1869 the title of Telegraph restored, 
and in 1876 that of Register. 

The Newbiirgh Journal, started in 1833-4 by John D. Spaulding, became 
the Highland Courier in 1843, ^ind in 1859, under Rufus A. Reed, it be- 
came the Highland Chieftain. The establishment came into the posses- 
sion of Cyrus B. Martin, who resumed the name of Newhurgh Journal, 
and in 1863 began the publication of the Daily Journal, which is continued 
to-day by Ritchie & Hull. 

The Beacon, an anti-Jackson paper, was commenced in 1828 bv ludge 
William B. Wright. Wallace & Sweet, in 1834. published the National 
Advertiser, and later merged it in the Gazette. In 1849 Thomas George 
issued the Nezvburgh Excelsior, which was purchased by E. M. Rutten- 
ber (May, 1851). who merged it in the Telegraph. For three or four 
weeks in 1855 R. P. L. Shafer published the Nczi'hurgh .Imerican. The 
Newburgh Times, a temperance paper, was started in March. 1856. bv 
Royal B. Hancock, "as agent for an association of gentlemen." After 



690 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

passing into the ownership of R. Bloomer & Son, Alexander Wilson and 
Charles Blanchard, it became, under the latter, the Nezvburgh Daily Demo- 
crat, and lived thus only a few months. 

An association of printers, in October, 1875, started the Daily Penny 
Post, and in 1876 a rival association started the Daily Mail. The Post 
died in 1876, and in 1877 the Ad ail was absorbed by the Register. 

Newburgh's theological serial publications began in 1824, when the Rev. 
J. R. Wilson started the Evangelical Witness, a religious monthly of 
forty-eight pages, devoted to the interests of the Reformed Presbyterian 
church. In four years (1828), it was succeeded by the Christian States- 
man, which lived one year. Authorized by the Synod of the same church, 
the Rev. Moses Roney, March i, 1836, began the publication of the Re- 
formed Presbyterian, a monthly of thirty-two pages In 1849 Mr. Roney 
removed the magazine to Pittsburg, Pa., where he died in 1854, and his 
widow continued its publication until succeeded by the Rev. Thomas 
Sproul. For one year the Family Visitor lived, a monthly quarto, con- 
ducted by the Rev. David L. Proudfit. Beginning in 1845 he published 
the Christian Instructor, a thirty-two page monthly. Two years later the 
Rev. J. B. Dales bought it and removed it to Philadelphia. The Catholic 
Library Magazine was begun in 1856 by the Catholic Library Association, 
with John Ashhurst as editor. It was published monthly, and lived until 
August, i860. 

Newburgh has been a fertile field for the production of newspapers anrl 
[<eriodicals of all sorts, x^s seen above, the religious as well as the secular 
press felt the popular pulse, and then passed away. 

There were also literary ventures more or less pretentious, each bud- 
ding, blossoming and fading in a short season. 

Tables of Rural Economy was issued in May, 1832, by John Knevels. 
It was a monthly quarto and lived less than a year. The Literary Scrap- 
Book was a monthly of forty-eight pages, started in 1855 by R. B. Denton. 
Its life was short. In 1857 Domaski's School began the publication of- 
The Acorn, which lived until 1859. Some time afterward the title was 
rescued in a publication by the students of the Newburgh Institute under 
charge of Mr. Siglar, and again it died. 

One of the most profitable of all these literary ventures in Newburgh 
was that of the Household Advocate, by S. S; Wood, begun in 1867. It 
was an eight-page monthly and soon secured a large circulation. Mr. 



JOURXALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 691 

Wood later changed its name to the Household Magazine. It attained a 
circulation of 60.000, and the writer is one of the many who read its 
pages with eagerness until it failed in 1874. 

Another publication which the writer remembers reading with much 
pleasure was Home, Farm and Orchard, an eight-page weekly started in 
1869 by A. A. Bensel. It lived until the spring of 1876. 

During the years of 1872 and 1873 Demorest & Burr issued the Mu- 
sical Bxdletin, a monthly quarto. 

In amateur papers there were several. Among them : The Union 
Jack, by Master A. Ludlow Case (1865 to 1873) ; the American Eagle, 
by Frank S. Hull, aged twelve years (1865); The Comet, by Henri 
Gerard (1871); The Index, by J. Walker F. Ruttenber (1871); The 
Collector, by D. W. Jagger (1871) ; The Packet, hy W. H. Wood and D. 
W. Corwin (1872) ; The Laurel, by a Milligan (1872) ; the Amateur Her- 
ald, by T. R. Half (1872). 

AT MONTGOMERY. 

Montgomery seems to have come forth into the journalistic arena. 

The Orange County Republican was printed there from 1806 to 1818. 
It was begun May 6, 1806, and was printed by Cyrus Beach and Luther 
I'ratt. This publication, as already shown in the Goshen notes, was re- 
moved to Goshen and became the Independent Republican. 

In 1833-1834 the Republican Banner was printed there by Calvin F. S. 
Thomas. In June, 1859, William FI. Smith started the Montgomery 
Standard. The Motitgomery Republican was issued in September, 1868, 
by Lester Winfield, being a continuation of a publication he started at 
Galeville Mills, Ulster County, in May, 1864, and which he removed to 
Pine Bush and called the Pine Bush JVeekly Casket, in November, 1867. 
May I, 1869, the Standard and the Republican united their forces and 
became the Republican and Standard, under Lester Winfield. In 1896 
Lyman H. Taft started the Reporter. Later the Reporter and the Re- * 
publican and Standard united, and became the Montgomery Standard and 
Reporter, which it is now (March. 1908), with Lytnan H. Taft as editor 
and proprietor, and Charles M. Miller, associate editor. It is a large nine- 
column folio, republican in politics, with a decided tendency to be inde- 
pendent. 



692 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

« 
In April, 1868, Stephen H. Sayer started the Wallkill Valley Times, a 
large seven-column folio. It was neatly printed, and the ofifice well- 
equipped, with a cylinder press — a rare acquisition in those days. In 
1869 Mr. Sayer issued the Dollar Weekly. In 1871 Lester Winfield pur- 
chased the Times and the Weekly outfit, and remained in Montgomery 
until his death a few years ago. 

AT SLATE HILL. 

Reference has already been made to a well-printed paper issued in 
Slate Hill or Brookfield, in 1834, the Republican Sentinel. The writer has 
several well-preserved copies of this neat publication, but when it passed 
out of existence is not now known. The name of the editor does not 
appear, nor of the publisher. 

Slate Hill in that day was a thriving settlement, and doubtless would 
have continued to grow had not the Erie railroad come to Goshen in 
1842 and to Middletown two or three vears later. 

IN MIDDLETOWN. 

It was in 1840 that the first printing outfit landed in Middletown. In 
that year A. A. Bensei started the Middletozvn Courier, a democratic 
weekly, which he continued until April, 1846, when, apparently scared 
by the entrance of the Erie railroad, he "pulled up stakes" and never 
stopped until his outfit was landed in Kingston, N. Y., where he started 
the Ulster, Democrat. 

The Orange County News was the second venture in Middletown. 
This was started in July, 1846, by John S. Brown, and it lived until 1849. 
It was neutral in politics and evidently in almost everything else, and, it 
is said, hardly deserved the name of a newspaper. 

About 1847 Elder Gilbert Beebe came into town with his Old School 
Baptist Signs of the Times, which he removed from Alexandria, Va., as 
already explained. This publication continues, changed somewhat in 
form but not in method or substance, and remains a monument to the 
peculiar tenets of the faithful band of adherents of a sturdy theological 
doctrine. For many years it was printed in the "meeting house" on Or- 
chard street, where the Denton residence now stands, and directly oppo- 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COl'XTV. 693 

site the residence of Elder Bcebe. A few years ago, and some lime after 
the death of Elder Beebe, the plant was removed to the upper tloor of 
the brick building- at the west corner of East Main and Roberts streets, 
and the "meeting- house," a plain brick structure, stands on the corner of 
Roberts and Cottage streets. The Signs is published by J. E. Beebe & 
Co., and is edited by Elder F. A. Chick, of Hopewell, X. J., and Elder H. 
C. Kerr, of Middletown. 

In 1848 Gilbert Judson Beebe started the Banner of Liberty. It was at 
first published monthly, eight pages with four columns to a page. After 
1856 it became a weekly publication, the same size. It was a rank pro- 
slavery paper, and opposed and assaulted all lines of modern thought or 
suggestion of innovation or iconoclasm. This style of polemics met a 
hearty response in the South and Southwest, and the paper attained a 
circulation of 27,000 copies. For years it was printed in the old frame 
structure then known as the Pinkus Building on East Main street, next 
to the Holding House. When the Civil War broke out its circulation and 
income were greatly cut down by the interruption of mail communication 
between the Xorth and the South, and the death of the talented but ob- 
durate and intractable editor, after the war, left nothing for the Banner 
of Liberty to do but to go somewhere and expire. It did. It went to 
Ellenville, and shortly was heard of no more. 

In 1856 Mr. Beebe published a Campaign Banner. 

Gilbert J. Beebe also started in 1848, and in this case may fairly be 
said to have "established" the Middletown Mercury^ wdiich as else- 
where stated, became one of the brightest country newspapers in the 
L'nited States under James H. Xorton and Isaac F. Guiwits. 

Mr. Beebe printed another paper in his early and more ambitious 
days. From 1850 to 1852 he ran out an advertising monthly for gratui- 
tous circulation. It was called the Middleton'n Advertiser. 

The next paper to appear in Middletown was The Whig Press. It 
was started November 26, 1851, by John Whitbeck Ilasbrouck, a young 
man from Ulster County. In 1866 he changed its name to the Orange 
Comity Press. This concern, always prosperous and influential, but 
which finally merged with the Times and became a part of the Times- 
Press (February i, 1906), had an eventful career, which is best summed 
up in the following brevities taken from the last issue of the Dail\ Press, 
February 28, 1906: 



694 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Established November 26, 1851, by John W. Hasbrouck, and conducted 
by him for about seventeen years. 

April 9, 1868, purchased by Moses D. Stivers and conducted by him 
for twenty months. 

December 3, 1869. firm of Stivers & Kessinger formed, the junior 
member being Albert Kessinger, who died in the summer of 1872. 

May 24, 1870, a tri-weekly edition was started, issued Tuesdays, Thurs- 
days and Saturdays. 

October 15, 1872, F. Stanhope Hill and John Whiting Slauson bought 
the paper under the firm name of Hill & Slauson. 

October 26, 1872. this firm discontinued the tri-weekly known as the 
Evening Press, and started in its place the Middletown Daily Press, 
issued afternoons. 

July I, 1873, M. D. Stivers bought Mr. Hill's interest, and the firm of 
Stivers & Slauson was formed and continued seven and one-half years. 

December 14, 1880, Mr. Stivers sold his interest to Charles J. Boyd, 
and the firm of Slauson & Boyd was formed. 

July 24, 1883, Slauson & Boyd issued the first number of the Orange 
County Semi-Weekly Press — the first semi- weekly local paper in this 
section, and a pronounced success from the start. 

August I, 1883, M. D. Stivers again became part owner of the Press, 
and the firm became Stivers, Slauson & Boyd, continuing for about 
seven and one-half years. 

March i, 1891, Mr. Stivers sold his interest to his partners, and the 
firm of Slauson & Boyd for the second time came into existence. 

February i, 1906, merged into the Times-Press, after an honored and 
prosperous record of more than fifty-four years. 

The term of service with the Press of each proprietor in round num- 
bers is : John W. "Hasbrouck, seventeen years ; Moses D. Stivers, nine- 
teen years; John W. Slauson, thirty-three years; Charles J. Boyd, twenty- 
five years ; Albert Kessinger, three years ; F. Stanhope Hill, one year. 

Reference has already been made to The Hardwareman's Newspaper 
(1855), The Sybil (1856), The Iron Age (1858), The Rising Sun 
(1866), The Mail, daily and weekly (1869), The Standard (1874?), The 
Argus, weekly (1875), daily (1876), The Liberal Sentinel (1881). The 
News (1883), The Jcffersonian (1886?), The Fornm (1897), and the 
Worker's Advocate (1899?). 



JOl'RXAIJSM I.\ ok.WGE COUNTY. 695 

TlIK PRESS IN PORT JERVIS. 

Printing- was introduced into Port Jervis by a colored man, P. H. 
Miller. Of his personality the writer is imable, at this day, to learn a 
thing — whence he came or whither he departed. Tie began the printing 
here of an independent W hig j^apcr. wliich he called the Port Jervis 
Express, early in 1850. It was neatly ])rinted, a five or six-column folio, 
and reflected credit on its foimder. It was printed in an office on West 
Main street, on the west side of the canal. That section was then about 
all there was of Port Jervis, though the Erie had arrived, and started a 
station near the Delaware River which it called Delaware. The people 
of "the Port" objected to this name, and for a long time strife was keen 
between the residents and the Erie company over the name, the advo- 
cates of "the Port" finally winning. 

The Express saw the tail end of this fight, before its life of nine 
months drew to a close. 

In November of the year (1850) when the Express passed away, the 
Tri-States Union was started. Its founder was Col. Sam I'owler. a Jersey- 
man who had acquired considerable land in the village, all within the 
boundaries of the present city. He was ambitious, had money, vim and 
a purpose. He built a palatial home on the banks of the Neversink, 
erected the T'owler Plouse. and was proceeding to make Port Jervis the 
booming town of the east, when financial disaster overtook him, and. to 
the great loss of the town, he left it never to return, his vast interests 
involved in hopeless incumbrances. 

But before he left he started the Tri-States Union, and it lives to-day. 
It was a Democratic newspaper, with John I. Mumford editor. The* 
Union has had a number of owners, and had its ups and downs, but it 
always managed to ap[iear on schedule time, and in usual form, though 
at times during- the Civil War it was sorely pressed to imitate many of 
its exchanges — when it was almost impossible to buy, beg or steal white 
paper — and appear in wrapping paper, or in "any old thing." It is now 
a six-column quarto, with a large circulation, has an afternoon edition 
of the Port Jervis Daily Union, seven-column folio, has two of the latest 
Mergenthaler linotype machines, and is of the concern that issues one of 
the leading agricultural papers of the country. The A'Vtc York Fanner. 

The Tri-States Union was first issued in a small building somewhere 



696 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

near where the Hubbard Building now stands, opposite the Fowler 
House and the present Erie depot (1908). Later it was removed to the 
old frame building Nos. 55-57 Pike street, now the four-story brick 
structure built by George Lea and occupied by Mason & Son, drug- 
gists. The early 6o's found it located on Pike street, over the Union 
store, in the second floor of the two-story frame structure at No. 100 Pike 
street now (March, 1908)^ occupied as the Central or Northrup's meat 
market. Thence it was removed by Foster & Mitchell (1870) to the 
Creegan Block, No. 76 Pike street, over what is now Laidley's drug 
store. Next (1872) it was removed to the rear of St. John & Malven's, 
now the Gordon Company foundry building, on Sussex street. In 1873 
it was removed to No. 81 Pike street, now Collin's news and confection- 
ery store, and in 1882 to its present location No. 112 Pike street, in the 
Farnum Block. 

Port Jervis has survived many severe temperance agitations. The 
most acute stage seems to have been in the extreme youth of the place — 
when impressions ought to be most lasting and beneficial. Between 1852 
and 1855, it had three papers devoted to the cause of temperance. The 
first was the Mirror of Temperance^ started in June, 1852, by J. L. Bar- 
low and John Dow. This Mirror reflected its surroundings for about 
eighteen months, and then faded away. It was a handsome paper, well 
printed and ably edited. 

In 1853 an Englishman, John Williams, took up the fight where the 
.Mirror dropped it, and started lite Sentinel. With the proverbial pug- 
nacity of a "Johnny Bull," Mr. Williams thought he needed more paper 
weapons with which to fight the "drink evil," and so, in the autumn of 
'1854 he issued a campaign paper which he called The Precursor of Tem- 
perance, and which died with the fall campaign. The Sentinel lived until 
1855, "1 which year Mr. Williams went to Middletown and in the Whig 
Pi'css office began issuing the Hardzvareman's A'cwspaper, the precursor 
of the Iron- Age, the leading organ to-day of the iron industry in this 
countr}-, and which is now — -or was recentl}' — published by his son, David 
Williams, in New York City. 

April 22, 1869, James Henry Norton and William Henry Nearpass 
began the publication of the Evening Gazette. It was a five-column folio, 
set in bourgeoise type, was published tri-weekly, Tuesdays. Thursdays 
and Saturdays. Soon afterward appeared the weekly edition, The Family 



JorRXALISM l.\ oUAXGE COUNTY. 697 

Gazette, afterward chanj^ed to The Port Jervis Weekly Gazette. It was 
started on the third lloor of the brick building- then just built by Cook & 
Burrell as an umbrella factory at Xo. 92 Pike street, now (March, 1908), 
occupied by Johnson & Stoll's furniture store. Thence it moved to West- 
brook's Hall, the third floor of the building now occupied by the J. W. 
Dalley Co.. Nos. 66-68 Pike street; thence to its present quarters in the 
Mondon Ijuilding-, 90 Pike street, corner of Pike and Ball streets. The 
tri-weekly became a daily afternoon is.sue, January 17, 188 1. It is now 
a well-equipped office, has a ]\Iergenthaler linotype machine, and all the 
accessories of a good country newspaper. 

E. G. Fowler's Morning Call appeared on Sunday morning, April 4, 
1880. It was printed in the Masterson Building, No. 10 Ball street. The 
Morning Index appeared in an upper floor of the Hornbeck Building, 
now the Swift Beef House on Jersey avenue. The Sunbeams and Farm 
Guide were issued from The Union office, and Church Life and Academy 
Miscellany from The Gazette office. The Bulletin is the name of a two- 
column folio that is issued occasionally in political and exciting local cam- 
paigns, from the press of printer P. J. Gaudy, on Ball street. It doesn't 
appear very often, but when it docs it makes a sensation. 

AT WARWICK. 

The beautiful village of Warwick, the "Queen \illage" of New York 
State, has two well-established, ably-edited, well-printed and influential 
weekly newspapers, reflecting with no exaggeration the sentiment and 
conditions of the Warwick valley — a land rich in nature's bounties, lav- 
ishly endowed with all the charms of rural romanticism and pastoral 
fervency. 

The first paper published in Warwick, so far as present records are 
obtainable, was the Doctrinal Advocate and Monitor. It was probably 
started as early as 1845 — possibly earlier — and was etlited or conducted 
by Elder Jewett as an exponent of the Old School Baptist doctrine. In 
1846 this Monitor was merged with Elder Gilbert Beebe's Sigtis of the 
limes, and for a while the latter jiaper was j^ublished under both titles. 

The second paper started there was the Warzcich Advertiser, the first 
number of which made its appearance January 2j. 1866. It was a well- 
printed, neat, newsy, and bright i)aper from the first, and age not only 



698 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

does not dim its luster, but seems to add to its sprightliness. Its first 
editor and proprietor was Leonard Cox, who was an elder in the Old 
School Baptist church of Warwick for a few years. It was independent, 
or rather neutral, in politics, but catered to the religious and moral senti- 
ment as well as the local interests of the community, from its inception, 
and has never ceased to act as a propagandist theological, political, social 
and formal. Within three years Elder Cox sold the plant to John L. 
Servin, a local lawyer and farmer, a man of high standing and education. 
In 1873 Mr. Servin transferred the business to his associate editor, Daniel 
F. Welling, a practical printer, but took back the concern within the year 
and soon afterward sold the same to Samuel J. Stewart and Joshua C. 
Wilson. A few years later Mr. Wilson sold his interest to DeWitt C. 
Demorest, a workman in the office, who, after a year or two, transferred 
his share back to Mr. Stewart, who remained sole proprietor until April 
J, 1882, when the plant was purchased by its present owner and able 
editor, Hiram Tate. Under Mr. Tate's management the Advertiser be- 
came an advocate of the politics of the republican party, of which it has 
since remained a staunch and fearless supporter. The Advertiser has 
been a factor of no little importance in the growth and general well-being 
of the village and Warwick valley. After a careful campaign of educa- 
tion on that special subject, it was largely instrumental in bringing about 
the now very popular and certainly sensible style of fenceless dooryards 
and lawns, so prevalent in Warwick as to excite the admiration of all 
tasteful visitors, and one of the distinguishing factors in earning for the 
place the well-merited title of the "Queen Village." It was also largely 
through the efforts of the Advertiser that a teacher in music and elocution 
has been added to the Warwick schools. Other betterments in local affairs 
have been brought about by this paper's efforts, and the Advertiser is 
certainly a paper of high tone and a credit to the Warwick valley. 

The third newspaper to make its appearance in Warwick was the War- 
wick Valley Dispatch, which has been a success from its start. It was 
established in June, 1885, by George F. Ketchum, who has since been 
its fearless editor and publisher. The Dispatch has prospered under Mr. 
Ketchum's continuous and wise management of nearly twenty-three years, 
and has been a potent factor in shaping the progressive development of 
the village and town of Warwick. Its columns have been especially de- 
voted to school improvement, the Dispatch and its editor taking a leading 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 699 

part in the niuvenicnt fur two modern brick school houses — primary and 
high school — during the twelve years that Mr. Ketchum served as a 
member of the Warwick board of education, he being president of the 
board when the high school was built. It is generally acknowledged that 
the successful outcome of this agitation was largely due to the influence 
of the Dispatch and its editor. The paper has been a leader in all efiforts 
to secure improvements for the village and the valley, especially for in- 
creased water supply, fine streets, and roads, and the development of 
Warwick as a summer resort. The paper also heartily advanced the 
formation of the Warwick Valley Telephone Company, the Warwick 
Realty Company and the Warwick Knife Company. Politically the Dis- 
patch is democratic, and is recognized as the most influential exponent of 
democracy in this section of the State. For a dozen years its editor has 
been chairman of the democratic county committee, during which time 
the influence of the Dispatch has been markedly shown in shaping the 
policy of the party in Orange County, and in the favorable results 
achieved for its candidates at the polls, although the county has a normal 
republican majority. The paper has gained a large local circulation be- 
cause of its newsy features, and is respected for its fairness and fearless- 
ness in controversy. The Dispatch was started as a nine-column four-page 
newspaper, and was first printed in a small frame building on IMain street, 
adjoining the Warwick \'alley Hotel. Since 1889 it has been comfortably 
housed in a brick structure known as "The Dispatch Building," which 
was erected on Main street by Thomas Rurd. and is equipped with modern 
presses and a Simplex typesetting machine. Although Mr. Ketchum has 
always personally controlled the editorial policy of the Dispatch, Isaac W. 
Litchfield was a partner with him in its business from 1889 to 1894, and 
much of the reputation of the Dispatch is due to his bright humor and 
facile pen. 

CORNWALL PAPLRS. 

Cornwall, or rather Cornwall-on-Hudson. has had its full share of 
journalistic ups and downs. Through the courtesy of L. G. Goodenough. 
editor and proprietor of the Local-Press of that place, the writer learns 
that the first paper, probably, issued in that interesting old town appeared 
April 15. 1871. It was called The Conn^'all Paper: "A Local Record of 
Things New and Old." It was published by P. P. Hazen. of Cornwall. 



;oo THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in conjunction with A. A. Bensel, Ferry Building, Newburgh. It was 
stipulated, in the editorial announcement, that unless the necessary sup- 
port in the way of subscriptions, etc., was received, the project would 
have to be abandoned. Mr. Goodenough has a copy of Volume 1, No. i, 
of The CornivaU Paper, and as no other number seems to be in existence, 
it is assumed the requisite "support" never materialized, and that the paper 
practically "died aborning." 

To a woman belongs the credit of having started the first regularly 
issued paper in this village. The Cornzvall Times appeared May 24, 1875, 
with Miss S. J. A. Hussey, a highly educated woman, as editor and pro- 
prietor. The Times was continued for at least six years, and with credit 
to herself and to Cornwall. Miss Hussey died February 21, 1898, aged 
seventy-nine years. Her declining days were passed practically as a 
recluse in a cabin on Round Top Mountain, which she owned, and where 
she seemed to be happiest, eitorts of relatives to persuade her to live with 
them proving unavailing. 

The Cornzvall Reiiector was started about 1877 by John Lee, and later 
was edited by H. H. Snelling, an elderly gentleman of ability and a 
forceful writer. He continued as editor for ten years, and until failing 
eyesight forced him to retire, and he went to a St. Louis home for the 
blind, where he died in the early nineties, after having become totally 
Mind. 

In 1879 appeared the Cortizvall Mirror. It was published at Highland 
Falls by James C. Merritt. and was represented in Cornwall by various 
persons at different times. 

In April, 1888, the Cornzvall Local appeared, under the management 
of H. A. Gates, and was an excellent paper. In September, 1889, he dis- 
posed of the Local plant to C. P. Brate, of Albany, who induced his 
brother-in-law, Thomas Pendell, to become its editor and publisher. In 
June, 1892, the paper came under the present efficient management of L. 
C. Goodenough. Mr. Pendell became connected with the New York 
Herald, later with the Middletown Sunday Forum, which he removed to 
Massena, N. Y.. whence he went to Peekskill and then to Poughkeepsie. 
For the past fifteen years the Local has been conducted by L. G. Good- 
enough, and is a particularly handsome, bright and ably-edited local 
journal. Practically the paper's former politics was classed as "inde- 
pendent." In 1896 Mr. Goodenough made it distinctly and avowedly 



JOURNALISM l.\ OKAXGE COUNTY. 701 

republican, and, as such, it has become an influential member of the 
county's republican press. In 1859 Mr. (ioodenough purchased Air. Aler- 
ritt's Cor)n\.'all Mirror, merging it with the Local. Recently the name 
Local-Press was adopted as more significant of a newspaper than the 
name Local. The Local-Press is an eight-page weekly, issued Thursdays 
at $1.50 a year, and with an average circulation for the year 1907 of 
1,225 copies. 

In October, 1898, S. T. Morehouse started a paper known as the Corn- 
wall Courier. It was conducted by Mr. Morehouse, by his son Claude, by 
the well-known writer Creswell AlacLaughlin, Bernard Call. Clark J. 
Brown, Clayton Brown, and William Clark. It lived until 1906. 

WALDEX NEWSPAPERS. 

W'aldcn has two good, newsy weekly papers. So far as the writer can 
ascertain the first paper started there was by Stephen H. Sayer, who, at 
Middletown, in 1866, started the Rising Sun, and at Montgomery the 
IVallkill J 'alley Times (i868j, and the Dollar Weekly (1869). Air. Sayer 
started at Walden in 1869 the IValdcn Recorder, but sufifered it to go 
down, in 1870 Chauncey B. Reed resumed its publication and called it 
the Walden Recorder and Herald, but subsequently dropped the Recorder, 
and it has since appeared as the Walden Herald. It is now edited by Ward 
Winfield. It is a well-printed seven-column folio, and devoted entirely to 
local and general news. 

The Walden Citizen was established in 1887 by Jacob Sears, and had 
its first home over John Simpson's cigar store. The outfit consisted of 
a Washington hand press and a small c|uantity of type. After struggling a 
year, the ownership passed into the hands of a Mr. Scudder, and the plant 
was removed to the top floor of what is now the Fowler building. Soon 
afterward Eugen Abel, a practical printer, and Prof. D. C. Dominick. 
principal of the high school, purchased the concern, enlarged the i)apcr 
and plant, and were getting the business on a profitable basis wh.en. in 
1898, a fire swept everything away. The paper was revived, however, and 
soon afterward Whitfield Gibbs became owner of the plant and speedily 
put the paper on solid footing and made it a leading repul)licaii paper. 
John Barringer succeeded Air. Gibbs. and since Alarch. Kp^. the Rev. 
J. H. Reid has been editor and publisher. The paper is republican in 
politics, and Mr. Reid makes it a lively publication. 



i 

702 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

It is not generally known that for two years (1884-1886) the United 
States Official Postal Guide tor New York City was printed in Orange 
County. A. M. May & Co. had the contract and the printing was done 
bv William H. Nearpass at the Port Jerz'is Gaaette office. 

Of the papers at Pine Bush, Monroe, Washingtonville and Chester, 
mention has already been made. 

In the number of publications Newburgh leads with about forty publi- 
cations or changes from one to another ; Middletown comes next with 22, 
Port Jervis with 15, Goshen with 13, and Montgomery with 7. 

Bloomingburg is in Sullivan County. So is New Vernon. But each 
is on the south slope of the Shawangunk range and on the Shawangunk 
Kill, which divides the counties of Orange and Sullivan. In each place 
there was once a paper that practically was an Orange County produc- 
tion, and depended to a greater or less extent on this county for its sup- 
port. The first was the Signs of the Times in about 1883. The other was 
the Sullivan Whig at Bloomingburg, in 1846. The former was Elder 
Beebe's Old School Baptist organ ; the latter John W. Hasbrouck found 
at Bloomingburg in 1846. where he began to learn the printing trade. 

INCIDENTS. 

As an auxiliary incident 01 Orange County journalism, it may not be 
entirely out of place to record some facts regarding journalism in Pike 
County Pa., opposite Port Jervis. In 1846 or 1847 James J. McNally 
removed the material of the Goshen Sentinel to Milford, in Pike County, 
and started the Pike County Democrat, July 14, 1849. It was a seven- 
column folio. In 1852 he changed its name to the Mil ford Herald. Some 
time afterward John M. Heller purchased the plant, and put in charge 
John B. Adams and Harry Heller, the son of J. M. Heller. It passed to 
several owners, and when O. H. Mott took it, in January i, 1878, he for 
some unknown reason changed its name to the Milford Dispatch, which 
it remains, and now. IQ08, it is edited by Josiah F. Terwilliger. 

But the first paper in Milford was The Eagle of the North, in 1827, 
with T. A. Wells, printer. In 1828 it became The Northern Eagle and 
Milford Monitor, under Benjamin A. Bidwell. Somewhere between 183 1 



JOURXALISM IX OKAXGE COL'XTV. 703 

and 1840 the paper disappeared. A second Northern Eagle appeared 
February 6, 18C4, started by Dr. Edward Halliday. It was a red-hot re- 
pubhcan journal, and, as'niight be inferred, had a small constituency in 
that land of 991 democratic and only a few republican voters, and it died 
January i, 1866. 

MORE OR LESS PERSONAL. 

Orange County's pioneer journalists have been gathered to their fathers. 
Of the second generation there remains one — as if to link the memories 
of the first with the fast-reclining activities of the third generation of 
newspaper workers. And that one relic of the dead past is a woman, 
now in the sunset of life. Dr. Lydia Saver Hasbrouck is with us yet; a 
landmark in Orange County journalism — honored by those who know her 
best, beloved by kindred, respected by all. The twilight of her years is 
closing pleasantly at her beautiful home on Linden avenue, Middletqwn. 

Of the third generation but few remain of printers, reporters, editors, 
publishers. The frosts of many winters have silverefl their heads, but the 
"strength of years" finds a few of them still struggling with the insatiable 
demand of modern type-setting appliances for "copy" and the bustle and 
rush of daily newspaper life. 

At this point it is interesting to take a look at the individuals, the char- 
acters — the men and women who have been on the scene of action, and 
who are there now. We have examined their work — the news and other 
papers and publications they have produced ; we have scanned them in the 
best light afforded, refracted and reflected, and to know somewhat of 
those who, in their own and often crude way wrought these paper tablets 
of thought, let us again look over the field. 

MAXDEVILLE AXD WESTCOTT.— The first names to appear— tlie first 
cliaracters to attract our attention — are those of David Mandeville and David M. 
Westcott as pubHshers of the Goshen Repository (1788), "at the Academy." What 
relations they had with the old Goshen Academy, or wHy the Repository was started 
"at the Academy" is not apparent. Victor M. Drake wrote from his recollections 
that David M. Westcott "was a practical printer and editor, who served a portion 
of his time in Benjamin Franklin's old printing office in Philadelphia, though, of 
course, not under Franklin's mastership. He was born in Cornwall of humble 
parentage, and in early life was apprenticed to a farmer, and afterward learned 
the printer's trade. His wife was the daughter of Coe Gale, one of the early set- 
tlers of Goshen, by whom he had five daughters and three sons, Mandeville, Nathan, 



704 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and William. Nathan was clerk of Orange County from 1844 to 1855. David M. 
Prescott," continues Mr. Drake's recollections, "was not only a good practical 
printer, but a good merchant and farmer, an able editor, and a trustworthy public 
servant; he was county clerk in 1815 and 1821, member of assembly in 1828, 
state senator in 1831-34, and filled many other stations of honor and trust. He 
acted as editor of the Independent Republican for a long time after Mr. Cheevey 
was struck down with paralysis. I have repeatedly called him from his labors on 
the farm to write editorials for the Rcpuhlican," says Mr. Drake, "for such was 
the high state of party feeling that its public would trust no other man than 'little 
Dave Westcott' with the responsibility of editing that paper in critical election 
times." Such, then, was the character and standing of the first editor in Orange 
County. That he was a man whose character, whose personality, and whose 
extraordinary abilities stand clearly silhouetted against Time's somber background, 
is apparent to the reader and the student of history. 

CAREY, LUCIUS. — The name of Lucius Carey appears next as the printer of 
the NcwburgJi Packet in 1795. Beyond the announcement that he was the son-in- 
law of the Rev. John Close, he cuts no illustrious figure. 

DENNISTON, DAVID. — David Denniston appears on the scene in 1797 as the 
purchaser of the Packet from Carey, and as changing the name to that of The 
Mirror. He was early in the field as a printer, having a shop in Newburgh in 1796, 
when he got out a bound pamphlet or book for the Rev. R. Watson, entitled "An 
Apology for the Bible." Mr. Ruttenber says he was of the New Windsor stock of 
Dennistons. Mr. Denniston was certainly a busy man, and a thinker. He died in 
Newburgh, December 13, 1803, of malignant fever, having up to that time been 
connected, at different times, from 1796 or earlier, to 1803, with the American Citi- 
zen and Watch-Tower, of New York City, and The Mirror, The Citizen, and the 
Rights of Man, in Newburgh. 

SCHULTZ, JACOB. — A local contemporary of Mr. Denniston was Jacob 
Schultz, also of New Windsor, where he was born April 23, 1776, and February 14, 
1799, married Anna, daughter of John Denniston, of that town. He first appears 
in the journalistic field as editor and proprietor of the New Windsor Gazette. 
When this paper came into existence is not known, though it was as early as, and 
probably some time prior to, 1799, for in that year he moved the paper and plant 
to Newburgh. In 1818 he retired to a small farm in the town of New Windsor, 
where he erected a substantial stone house, and where, in rural pursuits and pleas- 
ures, he passed the remainder of his days, and was gathered to his fathers in 1859, 
aged eighty-three years. 

WINFIELD, DR. ELIAS.— Next on the scene is Dr. Elias Winfield, who,, in 
1799, started the Rights of Man, and later removed to Kingston, and was lost to 
subsequent Orange County history. 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUN TV. 705 

HEURTIN, JOHN G. AXD WILLIAM.— Jolin G. and William Ilcurtin are 
heard of in 1800 as purchasers of the Goshen Repository, the name of which they 
changed to that of the Orange County Patriot. They seem to have retired from 
public view after 1803, when the Patriot passed into the hands of Gabriel Denton 
and William A. Carpenter, and became The Friend of Truth. 

DENTOX, GABRIEL. — Gabriel Denton appears in 1801 as purchaser of the 
interest of William Heurtin in the Orange County Patriot. In 1803 Mr. Denton 
sold his interest to William A. Carpenter. In 1804 Mr. Denton began the publica- 
tion of the Orange County Gazette at Goshen. In 1808 he started in Goshen the 
Orange County Patriot and Spirit of Seventy-six. Mr. Denton seems to have been 
industrious as a founder of newspapers, but others must have reaped the reward, 
for his last days were passed in the Orange County poorhouse. 

COLES, DEXXIS. — Tlie name of Dennis Coles appears in 1803 as starting the 
Recorder of the Times, in Xewburgh. 

GAZLAY, WARD M. — In 1804 Ward M. Gazlay appears on the scene for the 
first time. He was a native of Pennsylvania, and became engaged in the printing 
business at Goshen as the purchaser of the Friend of Truth, the successor of the 
Repository and the Patriot. He changed its name to that of the Orange Eagle. 
His office was destroyed by fire in 1805, and with the remnants he drove into New- 
burgh, purchased the Recorder of the Times, of Dennis Coles, and changed its 
name to the Political Index, under which name it continued until 1829. The Re- 
corder claimed to be Republican in politics, but was generally regarded as repre- 
senting the Federalists and Burrites. W'hen Mr. Gazlay merged the Times with 
his Goshen paper, and evolved therefrom, at Xewburgh the Political Index, the 
interests of the Republican party w-ere apparently consolidated. It supported Jef- 
ferson and Madison, and the War of 1812. Jonathan Fisk wrote the editorials for 
the Index, and with the inspiration of this able man's articles, the Index cared little 
for its only cotcmporary, the Orange County Patriot, a Federalist paper, and the 
latter retired to Goshen, whence it came, to become the Goshen Democrat. He sold 
his Index to Charles M. Cushman, in 1829. Mr. Gazlay served as a magistrate in 
the village of Xewburgh for some years, and died there in April, 1836. aged fifty- 
four years. His wife was Bridget, daughter of Jonathan and Bridget Carter, by 
whom he had three sons. 

BEACH, CYRUS, PRATT, LUTHER.— At Montgomery, IMay 6, 1806, appeared 
the names of Cyrus Beach and Luther Pratt, as printers, or rather publishers, "for 
the proprietors," of the Orange County Republican. The proprietors were twenty- 
four "patriotic citizens of the county."' Pratt's name remained connected with the 
paper until 1818, when it became the Independent Republican, with James A. 
Cheevcy as its proprietor. 



7o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

HENDRIE, R. C. S. — The name of R. C. S. Hendrie appears in Goshen between 
1822 and 1834, through coming into proprietorship of the Patriot. He sold it to 
F. T. Parsons, who changed its name to the Goshen Democrat, February 22, 1834. 
In 1843 Mr. Hendrie started the True Whig, and two years later sold it to Mead & 
Son, who united it with the Democrat under the name of the Democrat and Whig. 

CROWELL, T. B. — T. B. Crowell appeared in 1812 as the publisher of the 
Patriot, and in 1822 as its proprietor. Then he passed from the scene. 

VANDYCK, HENRY H.— In 1832 the name of Henry H. Vandyck appears, in 
connection with the purchase of the I tide pendent Republican at Goshen. In 1836 
he was elected to the State Senate. In October, 1839, he became proprietor of the 
Newburgh Telegraph. His course in favoring the building of the Erie Railroad — 
a terrible commercial blow to Newburgh — was so displeasing to the people of New- 
burgh that he disposed of the paper to Elias Pitts, and left. He went to Albany, 
and became editor of the Albany Atlas, and was later elected Comptroller of 
the State. He was a Democrat of the Jackson school. 

VAIL, LEBBEUS L. — Lebbeus Lothrop Vail was born at Middletown, in 1793. 
His father was 'Squire Izaiah Vail, a farmer and miller, and his mother, Azuba 
Horton. Mr. Vail, after engaging in various occupations, finally started at Goshen 
the Signs of the Times in 1832. In 1843 Vail and Denton started the Dem,ocratic 
Standard, which afterwards came into the possession of his son Hector, wht> 
changed its name to the Goshen Clarion. 

Mr. Vail was a highly popular citizen, and was elected county clerk for two 
terms by handsome majorities. He died in 1849, and was buried in Middletown, 
but the remains were afterwards transferred to Goshen. Mr. Vail was married to 
Sally Moon, who lived until 1876. 

CUSHMAN, CHARLES M.— Charles M. Cushman in 1829 purchased Gazlay's 
Political Index at Newburgh. He changed it to the Orange Telegraph and later to 
the Newburgh Telegraph. Mr. Ruttenber says of him that he was a descendant of 
Robert Cushman, one of the original company of Pilgrims who sailed for the New 
World August 5, 1620 (O. S.) He was born in Washington County, N. Y., March 
20, 1802, served as an apprentice in Rutland, Vt., and subsequently in Boston; and 
retired from printing in 1839. He was one of the founders of the Newburgh public 
libraries, and also helped to establish the Ouassaic Bank, and also the Newburgh 
Savings Bank. In 1853 he was chosen to represent the first assembly district of 
Orange County in the legislature. In June, 1832, he married Mary, fourth daughter 
of Captain John Birdsall. He died without issue at Rhinebeck, June i, 1859." 

SPALDING, JOHN D. — A contemporary of Mr. Cushman was John D. Spalding 
or Spaulding. He was born in Salem, Mass., January, 1800, and came to New- 
burgh in 1815 with his father, the Rev. Joshua Spaulding, of the Presbyterian 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 707 

(,hu:cli. He served an apprenticeship as "devil" with Ward M. Gazlay, was subse- 
quently connected with the Nezvbtirgh Gazette and the Journal, for about thirty- 
ciglit years. He married Ehzabcth L., daughter of Rev. John Johnston, D.D., of 
Newburgh, and died August 22, 1853, >" his fifty-fourth year. He was survived by 
several children. 

PITTS, ELIAS. — Elias Pitts practically succeeded Mr. Cushman in Newburgh 
journalism. He was born in Columbia County, N. Y., in 1810, graduated at the 
Kinderhook Academy, served an apprenticeship in the Kindcrhook Sentinel, and 
became interested in the paper. Later he was in the editorial department of the 
Rochester Advertiser, and succeeded Mr. VanDyck on the Newburgh Telegraph in 
the winter of 1840, which continued until 1850. He was next heard of at Pough- 
keepsie as editor of the Poughkeepsie American. Soon after 1853 he received an 
appointment to a clerkship in the State Department at Washington, which con- 
tinued until his death at Washington, July 21, 1854. His first wife was Elizabeth, 
daughter of John Jamieson, of Newburgh. His second wife was Margaret, daugh- 
ter of John Whited. 

It is practically at this point that we come to the parting of the ways — the passing 
of the real pioneers in Orange County journalism. The generation has come and 
gone, so far as activity is concerned, and we find coming on the stage new actors. 
They were, however, evidently of the same mould of character, infusing into their 
work their personality, and stamping on their productions the ineffable marks of 
strong individuality. 

SECOND GENERATION JOURNALISTS. 

DRAKE, VICTOR M. — First and clearly foremost in the second generation of 
early journalists was Victor M. Drake. He was born at Milford, Pa., March 20, 
1813. His father was Rufus J., a son of Francis Drake, of Blooming Grove, 
Orange County, N. Y. From the seventeenth century the family had lived in 
Orange County, in the towns of Goshen and Chester. His great-grandfather, 
Joseph Drake, was said to be a lineal descendant of Sir Francis Drake, of Eng- 
land, who died in 1794. The mother of V. M. Drake was Rhoda Pierson, a 
daughter of Rachel Bull, whose mother was a sister of Mary DeWitt, the mother 
of DeWitt Clinton. At the age of eleven years, Victor M. Drake entered the office 
of the Goshen Independent Republican, where he served as apprentice, journeyman, 
editor and proprietor of the paper, and in 1846 he became connected with the Ncxv 
Jersey Herald, at Newton, as reporter, editor and proprietor, remaining there until 
iS/f. Mr. Drake lived an abstemious, careful, circumspect life, and died in Goshen 
in 1894, and his remains repose in the cemetery at that place. 

Frank M. Drake, the present able and dignified editor and proprietor of the 
Goshen Independent Republican, is a son of this venerable and respected journalist, 
who infused a high standard in local journalism, and left a name that should ever 
be revered in Orange County newspaper circles. 



7o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

BEEBE, ELDER GILBERT.— Elder Gilbert Beebe, the editor of the old-school 
Baptist publication, the Signs of the Times, of Middletown, for nearly half a cen- 
tury, was the son of David Beebe and Eunice Case. He was born at Norwich, 
Conn., November 25, 1800, and died May 2, 1881 at his home in Middletown, N. Y. 
He was of the old-school Baptist faith and was licensed to preach in 1818. In 
1823 he married at New York City, Miss Phoebe A. Cunningham, and the same 
year he was ordained pastor of the Baptist Church at Ramapo, N. Y. After serv- 
ing pastorates in this church and the Baptist Church at New Vernon, he moved 
to Middletown, N. Y., in 1847, which place henceforth became his home, where 
the remainder of his life was passed in editorial work on the Signs, which he 
moved there in 1848, and in expounding the Baptist faith as stated supply for 
several nearby churches. 

When Elder Gilbert Beebe became editor of the Signs of the Times, a David 
had entered the theological field, armed with the slings of regeneration, the rocks 
of inspiration, and the strength of devoutness — backed by a printing press and 
waiting shrines. He was a worker, and became a power in the land. When Elder 
Beebe passed away the old-school Baptist creed lost its leader, and no one seems 
to have risen to take his place; the stage of Orange County journalism lost one of 
its most picturesque figures, the field one of its unique landmarks — a type of 
preacher and editor that has already passed, never to return. 

MEAD, CHARLES. — A contemporary of Victor M. Drake was Charles Mead, 
though born six years later, November 19, 1819, at Newburgh. His father was 
Xenophon Mead, and his mother was Abigail, daughter of Moses Burr, a relative 
of Aaron Burr. Charles Mead was educated under the then well-known Goshen 
teacher, Nathaniel Webb. At the age of fifteen years he was apprenticed in the 
office of the Orange County Patriot, under William B. Wright, who afterward be- 
came judge of the supreme court of New York State. He went to Carbondale, Pa., 
in 1839, and remained one year as editor of the Carbondale Journal. In 1841-42 he 
was employed on Graham's Magazine, in Philadelphia. May 9, 1842, he married 
Caroline A., daughter of Daniel Worden, of Goshen, who died November 11, 1880. 
Shortly after his marriage he purchased the Goshen Democrat of the heirs of 
Frederick T. Parsons. In 1865 he associated with him his son, William B. Mead, 
and January i, 1892, sold his interest to Edwin L. Roys. His second wife was 
Miss Fannie Jackson, of Goshen. Mr. Mead lived a quiet, unobtrusive life, and 
made his paper a handsomely printed, model conservative Republican journal. He 
died April 22, 1893, and his remains repose in St. John's cemetery, Goshen. 

McNALLY, JAMES J. — One of the men who left their impress on the printing 
art in Orange County, as well as in Sussex and Pike Counties, was the venerable 
James J. McNally. He learned the printing trade in the office of the Signs of the 
Times at New Vernon. Thence he went to Newton, N. J., and worked on the Nczv 
Jersey Herald. From there he went to Milford, Pa., where, it is believed, he 
started the Pike County Democrat, which became the Milford Herald, now the 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 709 

Dispatch. In the spring of 1852 he went to Goshen and bought the Independent 
Republican, whicli, seven years later, he sold to Isaac V. Montanye. In the spring 
of 1859 lie again went to Newton, N. J., this time as the editor and proprietor of 
the New Jersey Herald. This paper he finally sold and returned to Goshen, and 
again became owner of the Independent Republican. In 1869 he sold the same to 
Edward M. Ruttenber. The same year he became owner of the Nezvburgfi Tele- 
graph, daily and weekly, purchasing the same of A. A. Bensel. In 1874 he sold 
it to Dr. Cooper, of Warwick. For a short time he conducted a grocery store in 
Middletow-n, then became connected with the Carniel Courier. In 1882 he went to 
Monroe and started the Monroe Herald. In 1888 he started at Goshen the Goshen 
News, and for a time conducted both of these publications, printing them at 
Goshen. This he continued until the spring of 1892, when he died, and both publi- 
cations ceased. Mr. McNally was a good printer, a sharp, witty writer, and an 
energetic worker. His son, William C. McNally, is the owner and editor of the 
Ellenville (Ulster County) Press. 

RUTTENBER, EDWARD M— Edward M. Ruttenber was born in Bennington, 
Vt., July 17, 1824, entered the office of the Vermont Gazette in 1837, as a "printer's 
devil," came to Newburgh in 1838, as an apprentice to Charles M. Cushman, an old 
friend of his father, on the Nezvburgh Telegraph. Three years later he entered 
the office of the Nezvburgh Gazette, where he remained until 1845, when he be- 
came foreman of the Telegraph, then owned by Elias Pitts. In May, 1850, he pur- 
chased the Newburgh Telegraph, and successfully conducted the same until 1857. 
It was a weekly, printed on a hand-press. To Mr. Ruttenber belongs the honor 
of bringing to Orange County the first steam-power press, on which the Telegraph 
was printed in 1853. In 185 1 the Telegraph absorbed the Newburgh Excelsior, and 
the Gazette in 1857. Early in 1857 ^Ir. Ruttenber and E. W. Gray began issuing 
the Daily Nezvs from the office of the Telegraph. Mr. Ruttenber sold the plant 
late in 1857-, repurchased it in 1859, sold it in 1861, repurchased it in 1866, and in 1867 
sold it to A. A. Bensel. In 1869 he and James J. McNally became owners of the 
plant. In the autunm of that year Mr. Ruttenber retired, to become part owner of 
tiic Goshen Independent Republican, which is 1870, he sold to H. P. Kimber. After 
leaving that paper he and a younger son started a job printing office in Newburgh. 
From July, 1863, to January, 1865, when he resigned, Mr. Ruttenber was engaged 
in the Bureau of Military Records at Albany. Added to his other accomplish- 
ments Mr. Ruttenber delved dctply and learnedly into historical lore, and became 
the first authority on Indian nomenclature and the autiior of four or five valuable 
historical works. The first was a "History of Newburgh" ( 1859) ; the next was a 
work entitled "Obstructions to Navigation of Hudson's River": next "A History 
of the Flags of the Volunteer Regiments of the State of New York." A "History 
of the Indian Tribes of Hudson's River" followed, and is a work that is now in 
great demand. In 1875 he began in serial form a "History of Orange Comity." 
His last work was "Footprints of the Red Men," containing Indian geographical 
names in the valleys of the Hudson, Mohawk and Delaware, tiieir location and 



7IO THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

probable meaning. This was issued in 1906, and was published under the auspices 
of the New York State Historical Association. In addition to his journalistic and 
historical work, Mr. Ruttenber found time to work in local educational matters, 
and in 1870 had served twelve years as a member of the Newburgh board of edu- 
cation. In 1846 Mr. Ruttenber married Matilda A., daughter of Mark Mclntyre, 
of Newburgh, to whom two sons were born : Charles B., who became a musician 
of considerable repute, and Walker F., associated with his father in the printing 
business, and editor and publisher of the Nezvburgh Telegram. Edward M. Rut- 
tenber died in December, 1907, aged eighty-three years, deeply loved by his family 
and those who knew him best, and respected and honored by all. He was a man 
of genial temperament, companionable, and the evening of life found him amiable, 
courteous, warm-hearted, lovable. Orange County was greatly enriched by his 
coming, and impoverished by his going. His grave on the banks of the historic 
Hudson, in the hillside city of his adoption, should ever be kept green. 

HASBROUCK, JOHN W.— John Whitbeck Hasbrouck, the son of Richard Has- 
brouck and Mary Johnson, was born at Woodstock, Ulster County, N. Y., Novem- 
ber 20, 1821. In 1834 the parents of John W. Hasbrouck removed from Wood- 
stock to Kingston, where the subject of this sketch completed his education at the 
famous Kingston Academy, and began his journahstic career in 1845 with the 
Kingston Journal. In the spring of 1846 Mr. Hasbrouck purchased the Sullivan 
Whig at Bloomingburg, Sullivan County, but disposed of it in 1851, and the same 
year went to Middletown, where he started the Whig Press, which later became 
the Orange County Press, merging finally into the Times-Press in 1906. Mr. Has- 
brouck retired both from his paper and active journalism in 1868, though his grace- 
ful pen was never entirely idle until stilled by the Great Destroyer in 1907. 

Mr. Hasbrouck married Miss Lydia Sayer, M.D., of Warwick, N. Y., July 27, 
1856, who still survives him. He found in this cultured lady a true helpmeet, one 
with ready brain and brawn, and together, hand in hand, they traveled down life's 
pathway, with a harmony seldom paralleled, and the parting of the ways found 
them with silvered heads and the harvest of autumn goldened by the rays of life's 
declining sun. 

HASBROUCK, DR. LYDIA SAYER, was born December 20, 1827, in the town 
of Warwick, N. Y. She early determined to fit herself for a professional life, and 
graduated at the Higiea Therapeutic College in New York, with the degree of 
doctor of medicine. Mrs. Hasbrouck's life-work has been chiefly that of an edu- 
cator, lecturer and physician, and her connection with Orange County journalism 
was of brief duration. For eight years she was editor of her husband's paper, 
the Sybil, a semi-monthly reform paper, and she started a paper called the Liberal 
Sentinel. 

MONTANYE, ISAAC V.— Isaac V. Montanye was born May 3, 1825, on the 
eastern slope of the Shawangunk Mountain near New Vernon, and died December 



JOURNALISM L\ ORANGE LOrXTY. 711 

26, 1906, in the eighty-second year of his age. He entered the office of the Goshen 
Independent Republican in the early forties, as an apprentice under Victor M. 
Drake. In 1846 Mr. Montanye and John S. Clark purcliascd the Independent of the 
late Moses B. Swezey, who had succeeded V. M. Drake. Later Mr. Montanye pur- 
chased Mr. Clark's interest, and, in 1853, sold the paper to James J. McNally, and 
in 1875 became, for the second time, the owner of the Independent Republican. A 
few years later he again sold the plant to James J. McXally. In 1876 he became 
owner of the plant for the third time, having this time purchased it of T. P. Mc- 
Elrath. In 1883 he disposed of his interest to his son Lucien Montanye, and Frank 
Drake. He had been connected with the State Journal in Madison, Wis., the Mer^ 
cury at Middletown, the Telegraph at Newbnrgh, the Index at Port Jervis, and the 
Record at Washingtonville. He started the latter two papers, and was connected 
with the Record when he died. Mr. Montanye installed the first cylinder press, 
turned by hand, in Orange County, which he set up in the office of the Independent 
Republican in 1850, replacing the old hand-press. He also installed the first news- 
paper folding machine in the Middletown Mercury. In 1870 Mr. Montanye was 
elected member of assembly from the second district of Orange County, and later 
secured an appointment in the New York custom-house. In 1899 he resigned this 
position, and, with his grandson, Montanye Rightmyer, established the Orange 
County Record at Washingtonville. 

MARTIN, CYRUS B. — Cyrus B. Martin appeared in the field in 1861, when he 
became the purchaser of the Highland Chieftain, and changed its name to the 
Keii'burg Daily Journal, which it retains to this day. 

Mr. Martin was born in Argyle, Washington County, N. Y., September 6, 1830, 
and having early learned the printer's trade, was employed as a compositor on the 
Albany Journal, where he remained from 1850 to 1855, when he became one of 
the editors of the Chenango Telegraph, published at Norwich, N. Y. He con- 
tinued on this paper until he purchased the present NcK'burgh Daily Journal in 
1861. Upon severing his connection with the latter publication in 1877, he re- 
turned to Norwich, where various interests demanded his care and attention. He 
became president of that great industry known as the David Maydole Hammer 
Company, and also president of the Chenango County Bank. He departed this 
life some years ago while still actively engaged in bu.siness duties. 

RITCHIE, SAMUEL. — Samuel Ritchie, who as editor and part proprietor of 
the NezL'burgh Daily Journal, and president of the Newburgh Journal Company, 
has been connected with that paper for over thirty-one years, was born at Larne, 
Ireland, July 3, 1836. He was the son of Robert L. and Sarah E. Ritchie, and 
came to Newburgh in 1839, where, with the exception of one year, he has resided 
ever since. He was for many years connected with the Newburgh Daily Journal 
in a reportorial capacity and as city editor, and on March i, 1877, with Messrs. 
Hull and Rodinc, he purchased that paper from Cyrus B. Martin, and became its 
editor, remaining such to the present time. 



712 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. Ritchie has long been recognized as an able editorial writer, and being pos- 
.sessed of a keen wit, he wields a trenchant pen. His kindly nature, however, has 
ever rendered him cautious against wantonly injuring the feelings of others, and 
now, in the evening of life, he reaps the reward of his upright conduct, in the 
regard and esteem of his fellow-men. 

HULL, FRANK S. — Frank S. Hull, for many years part proprietor of the Nezv- 
biirgh Daily Journal, and at present the vice-president and treasurer of the New- 
burgh Journal Company, was born in Newburgh, June 6, 1853. He became while 
a boy highly interested in printing and successfully carried on several amateur 
periodicals. Upon the retirement of Cyrus B. Martin, in 1877, from the manage- 
ment of the Newburgh Daily Journal, he was one of the three gentlemen who pur- 
chased the former's interest, and has remained connected with that paper ever 
since. 

TUCKER, JOHN F.— John F. Tucker was born in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., on 
July 3, 1850, and after leaving school became connected with the Poughkeepsie 
Eagle. He left that paper in 1872 to take charge of the Government printing office 
at West Point, where he remained for twelve years, resigning in 1884 to become 
city editor of the Nezvbitrgh Register. With that paper he remained connected 
as city editor, part proprietor and sole editor, until its suspension in February, 1908. 
Mr. Tucker has been one of the hardest workers among newspaper men, and ever 
noted for the conscientious manner in which he discharged the various duties al- 
lotted to him. For many years he has been the secretary of the Newburgh Board 
of Trade, and to his efficiency in office, and active interest in every movement likely 
to benefit his city, is due a great part of the success attained by the Board of Trade. 

THIRD GENERATION JOtlRNALISTS. 

The most recent of the old school of second generation journalists to 
pass away was the Hon. Isaac V. Montanye, of the Orange County 
Record, at Washington ville, who died December 6, 1906, and in December, 
1907, Edward Ruttenber of Newburgh. 

There now remains on the stage of life only Mrs. Hasbrouck of the 
second generation ; and of the third generation, Gilbert Van Sciver, Mid- 
dletown ; Isaac F. Guiwits, Kansas City ; Samuel Ritchie, Newburgh ; 
William H. Nearpass. Port Jervis ; William T. Doty, Port Jervis ; Evan- 
der B. Willis, California. These are named in the order of their appear- 
ance in the journalistic field of Orange County, rather than with reference 
to their ages. 

VAN SCIVER, GILBERT.— Probably the oldest male printer in the county to- 
dav is Gilbert Van Sciver, of Middletown. He has been almost continuously "in 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 713 

the harness" since 1852 until two years ago (1906), when the Press and Times of 
that city united. He became an apprentice in the office of John W. Hasbrouck's 
Whig Press in 1852, when the office was located in the building on North and Depot 
streets, opposite the carpet-bag factory. In 1857 he went to New York and was 
there employed as a journeyman for eight years. In 1865 he returned to Middle- 
town, and was re-employed in the Press office, and there remained until the paper 
lost its identity and merged with the Times. 

.XORTUX, JA.MES H. — August 10, 1854, the name of James H. Norton first 
appeared in Orange County journalism. On that date Mr. Norton purchased the 
Tri-States Uniottj of Port Jervis, of Lucius F. Barnes, and there then entered 
Orange County a journalistic genius — a talent that was destined to cut a most 
important figure in the newspaper life of the county and far beyond its boundaries. 
James Henry Norton was born at Goshen, Connecticut, in May, 1823, and after a 
common school education in his native town, he was admitted to the bar before 
he was twent}-one years old, and was appointed District Attorney of Wayne 
Count}-, Pa. He finally decided to abandon the law for journalism, and purchased 
and edited the IVayue County Herald at Honesdale, and some years later sold the 
plant and went to Boonville, Oneida County, N. Y., where he started the Boonvillc 
Ledger in partnership with H. B. Beardsley. From Boonville he came to Port 
Jervis in 1854 ^"tl purchased the Tri-States Union, which he edited until 1861. In 
1862 he removed to Middlelovvn and purchased G. J. Beebe's Middletovjn Mercury, 
which he and Isaac F. Guiwits made the brightest country newspaper in the United 
States. In 1867 he disposed of his interest in the Mercury to Isaac V. Montanye, 
and April 22, 1869, he and William H. Nearpass started the Evening Gasette, tri- 
weekly, at Port Jervis. A few years later, in company with W^ H. Nearpass and 
I. F. Guiwits, he organized a concern known as the Franklin Printing Company, 
for printing "patent insides"' for country newspapers, and in 1882-3 started The 
Nen's at Middletown, which he sold to Charles Conkling. His later work was 
as correspondent for the Sun, Herald and Times. In 1847 he married Miss Eliza- 
beth Monson at Bethanj-, Pa. He died January 20, 1894, at his home in Middle- 
town, and his remains rest in Hillside Cemetery. 

GUIWITS, ISAAC F. — Shortly after Mr. Norton came to Orange County, he 
induced a bright young printer from "up State'' to join him in Port Jervis as a 
journeyman, and Isaac F. Guiwits came, then a mere boy. But he had talents, and 
Mr. Norton knew it. Young Guiwits accompanied Mr. Norton to Middletown. 
and tlie two made the .Middletozcn Mercury the great country newspaper that it 
became in the '6o's. In 1869 Mr. Guiwits started the first daily newspaper in Mid- 
dletown, the Daily Mail. Later he was connected with the Franklin Printing Com- 
pany, and when that merged with the New York Newspaper Union, and became 
the Union Printing Company, Mr. Guiwits still retained an interest and a position, 
and he was sent to St. Louis and later to Kansas City to manage a branch of the 
concern. His wife, who was a Miss Mackey, of Middletown, died four years ago, 



714 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

since which time Mr. Guiwits's heahh has steadily declined. Three years ago he 
went to Los Angeles, California, where he died at the age of sixty-nine, March 
25, 1908. Mr. Guiwits was one of the most graceful writers that ever adorned 
the Orange County press. 

FRIEND, DR. JOSEPH D.— One of the able editorial writers on the Demo- 
cratic papers in Middletown from about i860 to his death in the '8o's, was Dr. 
Joseph D. Friend. He was a regular medical practitioner, but preferred newspaper 
work, and many of the stirring editorials in the Mercury, the Mail and the Argus 
were from his trenchant pen. For a time he owned the Mail, and when it was 
merged with the Mercury, he became a partner with George H. Thompson, from 
which he retired in 1874. Dr. Friend was a genial, whole-souled man, and the 
writer remembers him as one who gave him encouragement, kind words, and good 
advice at a time when such were needed and did the most good. 

NEARPASS, WILLIAM H.— William Henry Nearpass was born in Montague 
township, Sussex County, N. J., May 9, 1840, being the son of Michael Nearpass 
and Charlotte E. Stewart. He removed with his parents to Port Jervis in 1856, 
and attended the schools there until he was nineteen, when he embarked in mer- 
cantile pursuits which he successfully pursued until he retired from business to 
devote himself to journalism. With Evi Shinier he became the proprietor of the 
Gazette, and has retained his interest in that successful publication ever since. 

Mr. Nearpass has always been an active Democrat and very influential in his 
party's counsels, having held various village offices, and elected supervisor of the 
county nineteen times. 

Mr. Nearpass has always enjoyed the highest esteem of his fellow citizens, for his 
character has ever been above reproach, while every public duty has been faithfully 
and ably discharged. During the many years he has been the editor of the Gazette, 
he has never used its columns for the gratification of private spite or ithe further- 
ance of selfish interests, but has always hewed close to the Golden Rule in all his 
walks of life ; and now the afternoon of his career finds him with a blameless life, 
a clear conscience, a love for his fellow mortals that no faults of others, injuries, 
assaults or misconceptions have ever chilled. 

Mr. Nearpass was twice married, his first wife being Miss Anna W. Newman, of 
Brooklyn, L. I., who died in 1879. On September 8, 1881, he married Miss Joseph- 
ine Westfall near Port Jervis. 

DOTY, WILLIAM T.— Mr. Doty was born at Crabtree's Corner, Sussex 
County, N. J., March 11, 1847. His parents were Jonathan Fisk Doty and Phoebe 
Jane Van Wert Doty. Mr. Doty is a descendant of Edward Doten or Doty, who 
came over in the MayAower and settled at Plymouth, Mass., in 1620. His mother 
was one of the Van Wert or Van Wart family, one of whom assisted in the cap- 
ture of Major Andre. Mr. Doty received a good education in the public and best 
private schools of that day. 

Mr. Doty's first connection with Orange County journalism was at the early age 



JOURXATJS^r TN ORANGE COUNTY. 715 

of sixteen, when he became attached to the Tri-Statcs Union at Port Jervis, in 
which latter city he is yet. He afterwards became connected with the Middletpwn 
Mercury, the Banner of Liberty, the Whig Press, the Signs of the Times, and in 
Col. Finch's job printing office on Franklin Square when in 1866 S. H. Sayer's Ris- 
ing Sun flickered above the horizon a few times and disappeared. The Mercury 
and the Banner of Liberty each had offices in the frame building (now a brick 
block) next to the Holding House, on East Main street. When Isaac F. Guiwits 
started his Daily Mail in 1869, Mr. Doty set type on it. He was employed on the 
Whig Press in 1866, when John W. and Mrs. Lydia Hasbrouck changed its name 
to the Orange County Press. He was also on the Press, though not continuously, 
when, in 1868, it was purchased by Moses D. and Jesse Lewis Stivers. In the mean- 
time he was employed for several months on the Jfamnck Advertiser while it was 
yet conducted by Elder Leonard Cox. It was not until April, 1869, that he returned 
to Port Jervis, this time to become foreman of the Evening Gazette, at the time 
James H. Norton and William H. Nearpass started that paper. Except for short 
intervals in Port Jervis and a few months in Warwick, he was continuously em- 
ployed in the various Middletown offices from 1865 to 1869. His personal recollec- 
tions of the older inhabitants of that place, and particularly of the newspaper men 
and women — John W. and Dr. Lydia Sayer Hasbrouck, Elder Gilbert Beebe and 
his sons, G. J. and Benton Be^bc, James H. Norton, Isaac F. Guiwits, Hon. Moses 
D. Stivers, Dr. Joseph D. Friend, Hon. Isaac V. Montanye, Evander B. Willis, Gil- 
bert Van Sciver, Elder Cox of Warwick, Coe Finch, E. Malcolm Norton, "Doxy," 
Charles Coleman and others, is pleasant to recall after half a century's flight of 
changing years. Leaving the Gazette, Mr. Doty was a compositor on the New York 
Tribune soon after the present structure replaced the squatty old home of the office 
on Printing House Square, and when the composing-room was in the wonderful 
"Tall Tower'' overlooking City Hall Park — which structure used to amuse the Sun 
so much that it never tired of being facetious over the Tribune's "Tall Tower." 
He was also a compositor on the Times and the ll'orld in those days. In 1S71 he, 
in company with Charles St. John, Jr., and Alfred E. Spooner, bought the Tri- 
States Union, of Port Jervis, of Foster & Mitchell. They made many changes in 
the Union, and in politics they heartily supported Horace Greeley in his candidacy 
for the Presidency. They also issued as a campaign paper The IVoodchoppcr. In 
1873 be associated with William H. Waller, of Monticcllo, in leasing the Gazette 
of George A. Clement. Some years later he again went to New York City, this 
time as printer in charge of the issuing of a little Liberal or Free Thought paper 
called Man, published at 744 Broadway 1>y Thaddeus B. Wakcman and Thoron C. 
Leland. Later he became reporter on the New York Star, then the Tammany 
organ, and printed at North William street just off of Chatham street (now Park 
Row). In the latter part of the '8o's he was employed as editor of the Port Jervis 
Daily Union until 1888, when in obedience to a telegraphic offer from Morris Koch, 
manager of William A. Clark's Daily Miner, he was called to Butte City, Mon- 
tana, to become editor of that paper in the interests of the Montana Democrats. 
He went there in June of that year, and in the fall moved his family there. In the 



7i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

fall of 1889 he went to the Pacific Coast, with the intention of going into business 
in Seattle. He was accompanied by his son Vernon, and they spent some time in 
Portland, Salem, Tacoma, and Seattle, the lad attending school in this latter city. 
Unfortunately Seattle was then a city of tents, a great fire having, late in that sum- 
mer, devastated the whole lower and business section of the city. In the winter of 
1890 Mr. Doty returned East with his family, and became editor of the Middle- 
town Daily Press under Stivers, Slauson & Boyd. The following year he became 
editor of the Orange County Farmer of Port Jervis, and remained in that position 
until 1897, when he returned to Middletown, and associated with Horace W. Corey 
in the publishing of the Sunday Forum. When that paper was sold to Thomas 
Pendell, Mr. Doty returned to Port Jervis as editor of the Daily Union, which po- 
sition he occupies at this time (March, 1908). 

William T. Doty and Catharine EHzabeth, the daughter of Andrew W. Dickert, 
of Youngsville, Warren County, Pa., were married October 6, 1875. Three chil- 
dren bless that union : Gwendolen, the wife of John S. Hatch, Jr., of near Scotch- 
town, this county ; Vernon Dickert Doty, train dispatcher on the Panama R. R. at 
Colon ; Louaine, wife of Charles A. Miller, of Midland Lake, near Middletown. 
A fourth child, Wentworth Doty, died in Port Jervis, March 12, 1888, aged thir- 
teen months. There are four grandchildren : Helen and Louaine Miller, and Naomi 
and Llewellyn Hatch. Mr. Doty's home is at Circleville, this county, where he has 
a "little farm well tilled" that affords him more comfort and pleasure than all that 
the cities or town can offer. During his many years of residence in Port Jervis, 
and where his children were born, he was for twelve years a more or less active 
fireman and a member of Delaware Engine, and later. Hose Company No. 2, which 
he joined in 1863, and of which he was foreman two j^ears. Later he was first as- 
sistant chief engineer two years, acting as chief one j'car, after the removal of Leo- 
pold Fuerth, the chief, to Honesdale. He is a member of Port Jervis Lodge No. 
328, F. A. M., and Neversink Chapter 186, R. A. M., of which he joined the former 
in 1871 and the latter in 1872. He is also a member of Delaware Commandery No. 
44, Knights Templar, and of Mecca Temple A. A. O. N. M. S., of New York City; 
past grand of Utsayantha Lodge of Odd Fellows and past chief patron of Deer- 
park Encampment, L O. O. F., and was the first chancellor commander of Mount 
William Lodge 105, K. of P. ; is a member of Orange Chapter No. 33, O. E. S., 
and of Port Jervis Lodge No. 645, B. P. O. Elks. 

COX, ELDER LEONARD.— Elder Leonard Cox came to Warwick early in the 

'6o's as an Old School Baptist preacher and started the Warwick Advertiser. The 
Advertiser not only lives, but after 42 years of useful existence is to-day a monu- 
ment to the preacher-editor's judgment, force of character and early craftsman- 
ship. In 1868 or 1869 Mr. Cox returned to Virginia, where he is still living and 
editing, in connection with his son, the Charlotte Gazette, at Charlotte Court-House, 
Va., and still active at the age of ninety years. The writer has very pleasant per- 
sonal recollections of this venerable worker, having for a time been employed in 
his office in Warwick as a journeyman printer. 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 717 

STIVERS, HON, MOSES D. — The name of Moses Dunning Stivers deserves 
an important niche in the county's journalistic gallery, for, after he began to take 
part in newspaper work, he was an active, energetic, progressive and lead- 
ing factor. He was an able writer — incisive and wonderfully effective. He 
was well educated, ever affable and courteous, a clean-cut gentleman. He first 
appeared in active connection with journalism in ^larch, 1868, when he purchased 
of John W. Hasbrouck the Orange County Press in association with his brother, 
Lieutenant Jesse L. Stivers. The latter was a practical printer, had twice enlisted 
in the army in the Civil War, and died in New York City, April 30, 187 1, aged 
thirty years. Hon. D. M. Stivers was with the Press when the Evening Press (tri- 
weekly) was started, and later when the tri-weekly became a daily edition. He was 
instrumental in making it one of the leading country Republican papers of the State. 
Associated with him, at different times, in the business and editorial departments 
of the Press, were John W. Slauson, Charles J. Boyd, Albert Kessinger, and F. 
Stanhope Hill. In December, 1880, Mr. Stivers sold his interest in the concern to 
John W. Slauson, and retired. 

In 1891, in conjunction with his two sons, Lewis S. and John D. Stivers, Mr. 
Stivers started the Middlctoivn Times. From the first this paper was a success, 
and the popularity it attained at its inception has never waned, but continued after 
the death of their father in February, 1895. Moses D. Stivers was born near Ben- 
nerville, Sussex County, N. J., December 30, 1828, and was the son of John Stivers 
and Margaret Dunning, his wife. In 1845 the family purchased and removed to 
the Deacon Hallock farm at Ridgebury in this county. Mr. Stivers attended both 
the public and private schools, finishing his education at the Ridgebury Academy, 
after leaving which, for several years, he taught school winters and worked his 
fathers farm summers. 

On September 26, 1855, he married Mary Elizabeth Stewart, of Wawayanda, and 
then for two years kept a store at Ridgebury, and in 1859 engaged in the mercantile 
business in Middletown, first under the firm name of Evans & Stivers, and then 
under that of Stivers & Wallace. In 1864 Mr. Stivers was elected county clerk, 
and in 1868 he became connected vi'ith journalism by the purchase of the Orange 
County Press. 

Mr. Stivers held several political offices besides that of county clerk, being post- 
master at Ridgebury under President Pierce, was appointed collector of internal 
revenue in 1868 for this district, and was elected to Congress. Mr. Stivers was 
also active in civic affairs, being a director of the Unionville and Water Gap Rail- 
road, a trustee of the Middletown Asylum for the Insane, and of the Hillside Cem- 
etery; also a trustee of the Middletown Savings Bank. He also took a keen in- 
terest in firemanic affairs, and filled the highest offices in the lodges of the Free 
Masons and Odd Fellows. 

Mr. Stivers was a man of strong personality, indomitable will-power, and diplo- 
matic and statesmanlike qualities, which made him a commanding figure in Orange 
County politics and journalism. 



71 8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ST. JOHN, CHARLES. — When he was in the work there was no more enthu- 
siastic or energetic newspaper man in Orange County than Charles St. John, Jr., 
the founder of the Port Jervis Daily Union (1873), and the Nezv York Farmer 
(1881). He entered the journalistic field in 1871 in company with W. T. Doty and 
A. E. Spooner, when the three purchased the Tri-Statcs Union at Port Jervis. For 
years he was more or less active in the work, and retained an interest in the Union 
and the Farmer, until October, 1907, when his partner and brother-in-law, Fred R. 
Salmon, purchased his entire interest in the two papers. While Mr. St. John could 
write energetically and with much effect, it was as an organizer, solicitor and busi- 
ness hustler that he shone brightest. Mr. St. John was a graduate of the famous 
old Mt. Retirement Seminary in Sussex County, X. J., near Deckertown, and of 
the Eastman Business College at Poughkeepsie. He was born in Port Jervis, 
August 30, 1849, a son of Hon. Charles St. John, of Port Jervis, and Ellen S. 
Thompson, of near Marlboro, Ulster County. The St. Johns were an old family, 
that early came from Connecticut to New York State, and nearly a century ago 
Stephen St. John came to Port Jervis and purchased nearly all the land where 
Port Jervis now stands. In 1870 Charles St. John, Jr., married Miss Mary Salmon 
at Honesdale, Pa., a daughter of Conductor Charles M. Salmon and Jeannette Rus- 
sell. 

FOWLER, ERWIN GALLATIN.— Erwin Gallatin Fowler, who started the 
Sunday Call in Port Jervis, and for several years edited the Daily Union and the 
Orange County Farmer, was born at Walden, N. Y., November 28, 1837, and died 
April 3, 1904. His parents were Charles Fowler and Millie Ann Lehman. He at- 
tended the schools at Walden, became a teacher, enlisted in the Duryea Zouaves, 
w'ent to the front in the Civil War and became first lieutenant. After the war 
he was employed in Newburgh for a while, part of the time on the Journal. In 
1870 he removed to Huguenot, and in 1872 became connected with the Port Jervis 
Union. Later he started the Sunday Call, and was called hence to Middletown to 
edit the Daily Press. September 8, 1881, he became editor of the Orange County 
Farmer, just started, and remained with this paper until he and John J. Dillon 
bought the Elmira Husbandman, going thence to the Rural Kciv-Yorker and later 
to the American Agriculturist. The last work that he did in the editorial line was 
as editor of the Orange County Farmer, when fatal illness stilled forever his able 
pen. During the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893 he had charge of the New York 
horticultural exhibit. Mr. Fowler, in addition to his editorial work, interested him- 
self considerably in musical matters, and was president of the Orange County Mu- 
sical Union. As a writer Mr. Fowler was able, ready, and facile. His homilies 
were not long-drawn-out, but were wonderfully effective, and his descriptive powers 
were fine. He had an extensive knowledge of agricultural matters, and when in 
charge of the Orange County Farmer put that paper on a high plane, and made 
it popular and its circulation grew to large proportions. Personally, Mr. Fowler 
was genial, the soul of good-nature, philanthropic and benevolent to the last de- 
gree. Mr. Fowler and Miss Fannie F. Dunning were married March 19, 1862. 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 71., 

MOTT, EI). H. — riioiiuli not directly connected witli Orange Comity journalism, 
Ed. H. Mott, the well-known writer and correspondent of the New York Sun, 
was for a time, in 1871, editor of the Gazelle, and after that the Daily Union at 
Port Jervis. Mr. Mott was too restless to be tied down to the drudgery of the 
daily grind on a newspaper, and in time he found himself in the regular employ 
of the New York Sun, with a desk in that office, grinding out Pike County tale's 
and character delineations that brought him notoriety and shekels galore. He is 
at present located in Goshen, and yet writing for the New York Sun. He also 
wrote a history of the Erie Railroad, which is valuable and a high-priced produc- 
tion. Mr. Mott is a gifted writer. His witticisms, character sketches, and stories 
generally are original, unique, and clever. 

VAN FREDENBERG. HENRY ABSALOM.— One of the ablest writers in the 
State to-day; one who has such command of words that they are as playthings to 
a child ; a remarkable linguist ; mathematician, botanist, chemist, geologist, and all- 
round naturalist, with abilities which his own modesty and lack of self -appreciation 
prevent him from fully recognizing — is the genius who is doing editorial work on 
an Orange County paper to-day. The writer of these lines has for many years 
known the gentleman, worked side by side with him, tried to fathom the depth and 
height, the breadth and length of his marvelous mentality. While it is a pleasure 
to make record of these facts, it is done with hesitation for fear of misconception, 
misconstruction, and misinterpretation. Henry Absalom Van Fredenberg was born 
in the town of Montague, Sussex County, N. J., December 30, 1849. His parents 
were the late Aaron Van Fredenberg and Marie DeWitt Van Fredenberg. His 
parents, in 1850, moved from Montague, N. J., to Sparrowbush, N. Y., where his 
youth was passed. He was educated in the public schools and in Professor A. B. 
Wilbur's seminary in Port Jervis, and at an early age became a school teacher. 
He taught in Sparrowbush, Sanfordville, Mount Hope, Otisville, Slate Hill, and 
Deckertown (now Sussex), N. J. In Deckertown he became interested in jour- 
nalism and edited the Sussex Independent for several years. He edited the Port 
Jervis Daily Union, the Washington (N. J.) Slar, and the Mauch Chunk fPa.) 
Coal Gazette and Daily Times in succession. In 1885 he went to Buffalo, N. Y., 
where he served as editor-in-chief of the Lumber World, Milling World, The Amer- 
ican Tanner, the Iron Industry Gazette, the American Woodzvorker, and the Fac- 
tory and Dealers' Supply World. In that city he served as associate editor of The 
Magazine of Poetry, now merged with Poet Lore, of Boston, Mass. In 1898 he 
returned to Orange County, making his home in Sparrowbush. Mr. Van Freden- 
berg succeeded the late Erwin G. Fowler as editor of the Orange County Farmer 
in 1899 Cnow the New York Farmer), and is in that position at this date (March, 
1908), making the New York Farmer an authority on all dairy matters, and quote(S 
extensively wherever dairy interests have an intelligent force. 

STIVERS. LEWIS STEWART.— Lewis Stewart Stivers was born in the town 
of Wawayanda, Orange County, April 20. 1859, the oldest son of Hon. Moses D 



720 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and Mary Elizabeth Stewart Stivers. After his parents removed to Middletovi/n 
he attended the public schools in that city and the Wallkill Academy, and then en- 
tered Peekskill Military Academy, from which he graduated in 1876. On conclud- 
ing his studies, he entered the office of the Middletown Press, of which his father 
was then editor and part owner and in 1891 he and his brother, John D. Stivers, 
began the publication of the Middletoivn Daily Times and the Orange County 
Times, the latter a semi-weekly issue. He was united in marriage, in Middletown, 
with Miss Cora D. Mackey, daughter of John Mackey, who, for many years, was 
connected with the Orange County Foundry Company. ]\Ir. Stivers died October 
30, 1905, deeply lamented by everyone who knew him, for he was the soul of honor, 
the friend of all; courteous, amiable, generous. 

SLAUSON, JOHN WHITING. — Many bright minds have been engaged in the 
field of Orange County journalism. It is not vaunting to say that one of the keen- 
est of these was he who made his entrance into active newspaper life October 15, 
1872, by the purchase of the Orange County Press of Stivers & Kessinger at Mid- 
dletown, and under him the Press, already influential and highly respected, be- 
came one of the leading Republican journals of the State. Mr. Slauson remained 
with the Press thirty-three years, associating in its management with F. Stanhope 
Hill one year, the Hon. Moses D. Stivers seven years, and Charles J. Boyd twenty- 
five years, retiring from the printing business in 1906. In all these years the Press 
property became very valuable, owning one of the finest locations in Middletown, 
and conducted in such a manner that it was a positive pleasure to be employed 
. therein. Mr. Slauson is a writer of ability, using the choicest language in diction, 
structure in phrasing, and style enriched with the higher graces of composition. 
John Whiting Slauson was born September 18, 1846, in the town of Greenville, 
this county. His father was David Slauson, and his mother was Antoinette, daugh- 
ter of John Whiting, a member of a prominent Connecticut family. Mr. Slauson 
attended the Westtown Academy and the Dolbear School for Young Men in New 
York City, and at the age of twenty began teaching in the public schools of the 
county, and after filling an unexpired term as school commissioner of the Second 
District of Orange County, he purchased an interest in the Press and thenceforth 
devoted himself to journalism. In 1875 Mr. Slauson married Miss Olivia, daughter 
of Horatio R. Wilcox, of Middletown. For over twenty-five years Mr. Slauson 
has been a member of the New York State Press Association, was one of its 
vice-presidents in 1894, ^"d is still an active member of the Republican Editorial 
Association of this State. 

Mr. Slauson's reputation for fair dealing and steady adherence to the principles 
of the Golden Rule in all relations of life, have earned for him the merited esteem 
of his townsmen generally, and the highest regard of those who know him best — a 
pleasure falling to the writer many years ago, and he cherishes the friendship thus 
formed as one of the pleasantest incidents in his life. 

MACARDELL, CORNELIUS.— An important factor in Orange County jour- 



JOURNALISM IX ()RAX(;R CUl X'IV. 721 

iialism entered when Cornelius Macardell came, and a distinct loss when he passed 
away. He founded the Daily Argus in 1876 at Middletown and in 1878 consolidated 
the Argus and Mercury. In 1896 he turned the control of the paper over to his 
son, Cornelius, and his official connection with journalism ceased from that date. 

Cornelius Macardell was born at Darien, Georgia, October 24, 1837, the son of 
Cornelius and Rebecca Campbell Macardell, and returned with his family to New 
York in 1841. He was educated in the public schools of Brooklyn, and then, after 
a few years of reporting for the city papers, became interested in a newspaper 
venture in New Orleans. In 1861 he came North, entered Wall street. New York, 
and in 1866 became a member of the Stock Exchange. A few years later he re- 
tired from the street and bought a farm near Mount Hope in Orange County. In 
1877 be again became active in Wall street, but he sold out his seat in the Stock 
Exchange a number of years ago. For years Mr. Macardell was interested in 
banking in Middletown, and was elected president of the First National Bank in 
1891. He was also interested in many ways with other business institutions in 
Middletown, and his business life was full of activities. In i860 Mr. Macardell 
married Esther, daughter of Oliver and Penelope Crawford, of near Middletown. 
Mr. Macardell died April 9. 1904, lamented by everyone who knew the genial, kindly 
old gentleman. 

THOMPSON, GEORGE H.— An able journalist of the fourth generation in 
Orange County was George H. Thompson, whose work began on the Middletown 
Mercury about 1873. He was educated at Williams College, had a good style in 
writing, and was one of the brightest and most satirical writers in the county. He 
also made a good editor and until his death, a few years ago, kept the columns of 
the Argus and the Mercury alive with his bright sayings and well-rounded sen- 
tences. Mr. Thompson was at one time president of the Board of Education of 
Middletown, and for a short time was postmaster under President Cleveland. His 
wife was a daughter of Colonel D. C. Dusenherry, but both have passed away, leav- 
ing one daughter, Maysie Thompson. 

WINCHESTER, REV. CHARLES M.— About 1874 llic Rev. Charles M. Win- 
chester, who came to Middletown from one of the New England States to preach 
temperance and the Gospel according to the Free Christian Church, started the 
Standard, an afternoon paper, and forthwith engaged in newspaper work of the 
most lively character. To say that affairs grew hot in Middletown for a year or 
two, is to state facts very moderately. Mr. Winchester was bubbling over with 
his ideas of theology, temperance and morals, and his powers of invective seemed 
unlimited. He preached Sundays and through the week in tents and other places, 
and hurled his javelins of wit, of satire, of denunciation, of imprecation, and exe- 
cration orally from the pulpit, and daily through his paper. The Standard was 
finally purchased by the Mercury people, and Mr. Winchester went to New York, 
where he died a year or two ago. 

SALMON, FRED R. — Fred R. Salmon, the present business manager of the 



722 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Ne-w York Farmer and the Port Jervis Daily Union and Tri-States Union plants, 
was born at Susquehanna, Pa., January i8, 1858. His parents were Charles M. 
and Jeannette Russell Salmon. The family removed to Port Jervis and then to 
Honesdale, in both of which places Mr. Salmon attended schools, graduating from 
the Honesdale High School. He entered the office of the Port Jervis Union in 
April, 1877, as bookkeeper for his brother-in-law, Charles St. John. In 1884 he 
entered into partnership with Mr. St. John under the firm name of St. John & 
Salmon. In 1895 they organized the Tri-States Publishing Company, as its sole 
owners. This concern continued until October i, 1907, when Mr. Salmon purchased 
Mr. St. John's interest, and became the sole owner of the stock. October 6, 1889, 
Mr. Salmon married Miss Flora Dunning, daughter of Joseph and Clara Owen 
Dunning, of near Middletown. For several years Mr. Salmon was secretary of 
the Republican County Committee and prominent in the councils of his party. He 
is now a member of the Civil Service Commission of the new city of Port Jervis ; 
is a member of the Board of Education ; is trustee of the First Presbyterian Church, 
and a trustee of the Port Jervis Board of Trade. 

DRAKE, FRANK M. — The present editor of the Goshen Independent Republican 
is Frank Drake, who became connected therewith as part owner January i, 1883, 
and sole owner in March, 1892. Mr. Drake is a practical printer, an able writer, 
and is a "worthy son of a worthy sire." His father was Victor M. Drake, one of 
the Nestors of Orange County journalism, and the son is giving in the semi-weekly 
issues of his Independent Republican evidence that the "journalistic instincts" of the 
father have descended to the son. He is a Democrat of the conservative type; is 
sprightly in his treatment of all subjects, and deftly sprinkles a bit of attic salt in 
much of the palatable literary provender that he sets before his readers. Mr. Drake 
was born at Newton, N. J., in 1855, and after his school days he entered the office 
of the Independent Republican, after his parents removed to Goshen, and became an 
apprentice in 1874, at the age of nineteen years. He never found it necessary or 
advisable to migrate, and it is fitting that he should find his life work in the very 
office in which the genius of his gifted father for so many long years was exercised 
for the public good. Mr. Drake is unmarried. 

KETCHUM, GEORGE F.— With the establishment at Warwick in 1885 of the 
Warwick Valley Dispatch there entered the arena of Orange County journalism a 
champion who has proven his right to become a leader. George F. Ketchum, who 
founded the Dispatch, is the son of the late George W. Ketchum and Elizabeth 
Strang Wright. George F. Ketchum has made his Dispatch the leading Demo- 
cratic paper in the county, by ^ reason of his unquestioned honesty of purpose, his 
fearless but always fair and courteous advocacy of principles which he believed 
conducive to the public weal, his persistent, aggressive efforts, and his fair treat- 
ment of all opponents. Mr. Ketchum has been for more than a decade the chair- 
njan of the Democratic County Committee — a position that he has not held through 



J()rR.\ALIS.\r IX OKAXGE COUNTY. -jzt, 

mere favoritism, hut by reason of tlic force of character and the indomitable en- 
ergy that has cliaractcrizcd his whole public career. 

BOYD, CHARLES J. — About 1880 Charles J. Boyd became interested in news- 
paper work through partnership with John \V. Slauson, under the tlrm name of 
Slauson & Boyd, as publishers of the Middleton'it Press. Mr. Boyd remained with 
the Press until it was merged with the Times in 1906, when he retired from the 
work, to engage in insurance and real estate business. Mr. Boyd was a first-class 
newspaper man in every particular. He wrote a good article, had neat descriptive 
powers, good judgment, clear discernment and discrimination, and his work was 
ever in evidence on the Press. It would seem tiiat one so clever, so well endowed 
by nature for newspaper work, should have remained in the field. Mr. Boyd was 
supervisor of his ward for a number of years, and made one of the most efficient 
members of the county legislature. ?Ie was also by appointment one of the Prison 
Commissioners of the State. 

STIVERS, JOHN D. — In 1891 John D. Stivers entered actively into journalistic 
duties, thougii he had been connected therewith more or less all his life. In that 
year the Middletozi'u Times came into existence, and he became its normal editor. 
Since the lamented death of his father, the Hon. Moses D. Stivers, in February, 
1895, John D. Stivers has been the real head and front of the establishment. Mr. 
Stivers is a young man who deservedly stands well with his party and the public. 
Through its well-writen editorials, its daily supply of the local and general news 
served in the most concise and acceptable manner, the Times is a power in politics 
and in general thought that needs to be reckoned with by politicians and caterers 
to the public in any form whatever. John Dunning Stivers was born August 30, 
1861, at Middletown, N. Y., the second son of the Hon. Moses D. and Mary Eliza- 
beth Stewart Stivers. He attended the public schools of Middletown and Wallkill 
Academy, where the rudiments of his education were obtained, and later Peekskfll 
Military Academy, from which institution he was graduated in 1878, at the age of 
seventeen years. He then began his journalistic career, entering the office of the 
Middletown Press as bookkeeper and later filling the position of city editor. Re- 
signing from the Press, Mr. Stivers became private secretary to his father, the 
Hon. Moses D. Stivers, during his term as Member of Congress from this district. 
Upon the latter's retirement from office, John D. Stivers returned to Middletown, 
and, with his brother, Lewis S. Stivers, established the Middletozvn Times. After 
the death of his father, he was elected to take the latter's place as trustee of the 
Orange County Trust Company. Mr. Stivers was appointed a member of the 
Board of Managers of the Middletown State Hospital by Governor Morton, and 
was secretary of the Board for several years, and until the reorganization of the 
asylum management throughout the State by Governor Odell. 

NICKIXSOX, ALBERT E. — Albert E. Xickinson, the present treasurer and gen- 
eral business manager of the Middletown Argus and Mereury, was born in Cin- 
cinnati, Ohio, July 8, 1863. He was a son of John Xickinson and Elizabeth J. Phil- 



724 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

lips. Albert E. was educated in the public schools of Indianapolis, Philadelphia, 
and Suffern, N. Y. He entered the employ of the Argus and Mercury in 1888, re- 
mained until 1901, and returned to the office upon its reorganization as a new com- 
pany in 1906. Mr. Nickinson is a good business man, and when necessary can wield 
a descriptive pen. On November 28, 1889, Mr. Nickinson and Miss Penelope Mac- 
ardell were married. 

SPEIDEL, MERRITT C. — The present efficient associate business manager of 
the Port Jervis Daily Union, Tri-Stafcs Union and Nezv York Farmer is Merritt 
C. Speidel. He was born May 19, 1879, in Port Jervis, son of Martin and Hannah 
M. Patterson Speidel, members of well-known Deerpark families. During his stu- 
dent days he frequently wrote for the local newspapers, and on October 25, 1897, 
he became employed in the business department of the Tri-States Publishing Com- 
pany, and several months later became reporter for the Port Jervis Daily Union, 
and then successively city editor, associate editor, and editor. January i, 1904, he 
became associate business manager of the Tri-States Publishing Co., and in Janu- 
ary, 1908, became secretary and a director of the company. Mr. Speidel, though a 
young man, has been much identified with local public affairs and is now serving 
his seventh year as secretary of the Port Jervis Board of Trade ; is one of the 
Health Commissioners; is president of the Deerpark organization of the Chau- 
tauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. 

POWERS, HENRY P.— Henry P. Powers, city editor and desk man of the Mid- 
dletown Daily Argus and semi-weekly Mercury, was born at Groton, Tompkins 
County, N. Y., June 30, 1857, a son of Jacob B. Powers and Nancy G. Bouton. He 
early developed a love for the printing trade and entered the office of the Groton 
Journal, when a lad, as apprentice, serving there seven years, and about eighteen 
years ago he came into Orange County and located at Middletown. For a year and 
a half he was employed as city editor of the Middletown Daily Press. In January, 
1903, he became reporter for and then city editor of the Daily Argus. Mr. Powers 
is a thoroughly good newspaper man; active, reliable, a ready writer, of good dis- 
crimination, and he is a valuable addition to Orange County journalism. Mr. Pow- 
ers was twice married. His first wife died at Groton twenty-two years ago. His 
second wife was Miss Minnie L. Hill, daughter of John W. Hill, of Middletown. 

GREGG, GEORGE F. — In January, 1903, George F. Gregg, in company with 
John B. Scott, became part owner of the Goshen Democrat, and September i. 1905, 
he became sole owner of the same. To say that he has made the Democrat a liright, 
newsy, weekly paper is to express the fact mildly but justly. He is a vigorous 
writer, with a fervor and animation that is born of the intensity of earnestness 
and zeal, and he is surely making the Democrat read by friends and political foes. 
In 1906 Mr. Gregg was elected supervisor of the town of Goshen, and again in 
1907, and brings to this public officj the same earnestness, push and capacity that 
characterizes his work as an editor. Mr. Gregg is yet a young man, and he is in 
a fair way to be one of the leaders of thought and action in Orange County. George 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 725 

F. Gregg was bom at W'aldcii. X. Y., April 30, 1S75. His parents were Edgar M. 
Gregg, of Walden, and Rose L. Faron, of Corning, X. Y. His education was at 
the public schools. He passed several years in Chenango County, this State. For 
a short time he was connected with the advertising department of the New York 
Times. He was also in the Ordnance Department of the United States Navy, in 
the naval magazine at Fort Lafayette. Mr. Gregg seemed to have an "intuitive 
leaning" to journalistic work, for in addition to his service on the New York 
Times, we find he was fifteen years in newspaper work, several of which were in 
the office of the "now esteemed contemporary," the Independent Republiani. For 
two years he was city editor of the MiddletoiK'n Argus, immediately prior to pur- 
chasing an interest in the Goshen Democrat. The good work he is doing in the 
columns of that old paper, and the esteem in which he is held bj' the people of 
Goshen, as shown by his being twice chosen as supervisor of the tow-n, is evidence 
that he has found his life's work and its field. Mr. Gregg and Miss Tanc A. P.run- 
dage, of Newark, X. J., were married July 11, 1900. 

TAFT, LY.MAX H. — One of tlie most thomuglily independent editors in the 
county is Lyman H. Taft, of the Montgomery .Stundard-Rcportcr, who was born 
December 5, 1865, at Oneida Valley, Madison County, X. Y. His father was 
Thomas J. Taft, and his mother was Jane Bauni, whose father. Rev. John Raum, 
was a Methodist minister at Mendenville, X. Y. The parents went to the Penn- 
sylvania oil country, when Lyman was but three months old, and settled at Warren, 
Pa. He attended the Warren high school, leaving the same to enter the office of 
the Warren Ledger (1877), where he served an apprenticeship of three years, and 
then traveled over the country, working as a journeyman printer, and visited forty 
States of the Union. September T, 1888, he arrived at Montgomery, purchased the 
Recorder and in 1898 the Standard, and consolidated tlie two papers under the title 
of the Standard and Reporter. 

^L\cGOW.\.\, llORACF .\.— Horace A. MacGowan, city editor of the Middle- 
town Daily Argus, was born January 7, 1877, near Circleville, this county, a son of 
John Xelson and Julia XN'oodrufY MacGowan, and of Scotch ancestry. His parents 
removed to Middletown when Horace was but four years of age, and he attended 
the schools until thirteen years of age, when (July, 1891) he entered the employ 
of the Middletown Daily Press, where he remained fifteen years. When the Press 
was merged with the Times, Mr. MacGowan, February i, 1906, became city editor 
of the Middletown Daily Argus, which position he still holds. Mr. MacGowan has 
time and again proven his capability as a good writer and newspaper man by work 
of recognized merit. April 23, 1903, he married Miss F.lizabeth Tappan, daughter 
of Mrs. Catherine Tappan, of Middletown. 

MACARDFLL. CORXi-LIL'S. JR.— Cmiulius Macardell w.is educated in the 
public schools of Middletown, and entered the office of the .Irgus in 1891, becom- 
ing publisher of the .Irgus and Mercury in 1896, and continuing in that capacity 



726 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

until the formation of the corporation in March, 1906. He is president of the Argus 
and Mercury Company. 

RICHARDS, MARK V.— The city editor of the Port Jervis Gazette since 1905 
is Mark V. Richards, an industi'ious, alert reporter, a descriptive writer, and a con- 
scientious, painstaking worker. Mr. Richards was born in Port Jervis, February 
24, 1880, the son of David S. and Martha Isadore Bunting Richards. Mark V. 
Richards .graduated from the Port Jervis High School, June 24, 1898. He began 
newspaper work, January 2, 1897, as a paper carrier for the Gazette. In the year 
and a half thus employed he was constantly picking up bits of news for the Gazette, 
often writing them out in such readable form that he attracted the attention of 
Editors Nearpass and Bennet, with the result that at the first opportunity he was 
engaged as reporter for the Gazette. This work he began in September, 1898, and 
continued until 1905, when he became city editor. July 7, 1903, he married Miss 
Bertha E. Lobb, of Honesdale, Pa. 

SHIMER, EVI. — The present business manager of the Port Jervis Gazette is 
Evi Shimer. He has held that position since April i, 1886. Mr. Shimer was born 
December 8, i860, on the old Shimer homestead in Montague, Sussex County, N. J. 
His parents were Abram and Adaline Cuddeback Shimer. When Evi was about 
seven years of age, the family moved to Port Jervis, where he attended the public 
schools. Later he graduated from the Binghamton Business College. After that 
he was ten years in the wholesale hardware business in New York City. April i, 
1886, he returned to Port Jervis and became business manager of the Gazette estab- 
lishment, which position he still holds. Mr. Shimer was for four years one of the 
trustees of the village of Port Jervis. In November, 1888, Mr. Shimer and Miss 
Susan A. Donaldson were married. 

BROWN, MELVIN H.— The present city editor of the Middletown Times-Press 
is Melvin Halstead Brown, an alert worker and ready writer. He was born at 
Otisville, N. Y., December 25, 1867, a son or Orville and Emeline Ketcham Brown. 
Melvin H. attended the public schools at Paterson, N. J., and later in Middletown 
and the Wallkill Academy. He learned the printer's trade in the Argus office, be- 
ginning at the age of fifteen years. When the Middletown Times was started he 
became a compositor thereon, later foreman of the composing room, and twelve 
years ago became a reporter, which position, and that of city editor, he has since 
filled. His wife was Miss Anaina, daughter of Alderman and Mrs. George Miller. 

RUSSELL, ALEXANDER W.— One of the ablest editorial writers on the coun- 
try press of to-day is the young man who is on the staff of the Middletown Times- 
Press, Alexander W. Russell. He is alert to events of local as well as of State, 
national and international importance, and treats them in a most able manner, in 
language that is choice, pleasing and expressive. Mr. Russell was born at New 
Berlin, Chenango County, N. Y., April 14, 1865. His parents were Edward and 
Elinor Tillinghast Russell. He learned the trade of a printer in the office of the 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COUNTY. 



/-/ 



Brookfield Courier, at Brookfield, Madison County, N. Y. Later, he attended Ho- 
bart College at Geneva, N. Y., leaving there in 1886, to become city editor of the 
Oneida Union, Oneida, N. Y., which position he fdled for ten years, at the end of 
which time he became city editor of the Brockton, Mass., Gazette, where he re- 
mained two years. Soon after this he came to Middletown, X. Y., where he has 
since remained, and has been on the Tinics-Prcss editorial staff since 1906. 

MACARDELL, ABRAM B.— Abram Bennet Macardell, the editor of the Argus 
and Mercury, and vice-president and secretary of the Argus and Mercury Pub- 
lishing Company, was born at Mount Hope, this county, a son of Cornelius and 
Esther Crawford Macardell. In January, 1886, the family removed to Middletown, 
and he was educated in the public schools there and graduated from Wallkill Acad- 
emy in 1897, a member of the last class to graduate from that time-honored and 
historic institution, which, after that year, became the Middletown High School. 
He entered Hamilton College and graduated in 1901. In November, 1902, he en- 
tered the Argus office and succeeded George H. Thompson as editor at his death 
in May, 1904. He was active in the formation of the Argus and Mercury Com- 
pany in March, 1906. Mr. Macardell is an eas\', graceful writer, and, while "yowng 
in the harness," is doing good editorial work. 

STAGE, ALBERT L. — The present city editor of the Port Jervis Daily Union 
is Albert Louis Stage. He was born in the town of Lumberland, Sullivan County, 
N. Y., June 8, 1876. His parents were Albert and Caroline Cowen Stage. He at- 
tended the public schools at Barryville, N. Y., and Equinunk, Pa., qualified himself 
for teaching, and for several years was thus engaged in the public schools at 
Blooming Grove, Greeley, Mast Hope, and Flagstone, Pa. Later, for a time, he 
was a salesman for Rand, McNally & Co., educational and book publishers, of New 
York City. During 1904 he was employed in the wholesale house of E. P. & E. 
Kinney, spices, coffees, teas and groceries, in Binghamton, N. Y. In March, 1905, 
he became city editor of the Port Jervis Union, which position he has since most 
acceptably filled. 

STIVERS, DR. MOSES A.— Moses Asby Stivers was born in Middletown, No- 
vember 14, 1872, the youngest son of the Hon. Moses D. and Mary Elizabeth Stew- 
art Stivers. He graduated in the Middletown schools, and became bookkeeper in 
the Middletown Times when it was first started. Later he entered the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons in New Y'ork City in 1894. Dr. Stivers is a practicing 
physician in Middletown, is connected with Thrall Hospital, and is now secretary 
and treasurer of the Stivers Printing Company, of which his brother, John D. 
Stivers, is president, printing the Daily Times-Press. He is a young man of supe- 
rior mental qualities and ever amiable and courteous. 

C.M.I-KD ELSEWHERE. 

AmonjT the newspaper men. aside from those already mentioned, who 
have come and gone — some to their final reward, others to new or dififer- 



728 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

ent fields of labor — who were more or less important actors on this 
stage of life's industry, were some who were peculiarly adapted to jour- 
nalistic work and had rendered highly satisfactory service in their day. 
Among such were : 

HOLBROOK, DANIEL.— Daniel Holbrook, who, in 1862, bought the Tri-Statcs 
Union in Port Jervis — a college graduate, a linguist, scholar, and able writer, a 
native of Boston. After less than a decade of newspaper work, he sold the plant, 
and has since been engaged in the real estate and insurance business in Port Jervis, 
and is now justice of the peace and police justice in the city of Port Jervis. 

SLAWSON, WILLIAM G.— William G. Slawson was, in the '70's, one of the 
liveliest reporters that ever labored in Middletown, and he kept the columns of 
the Press teeming with his clever work. He has been for several years in other 
work, lately at Cleveland, Ohio. 

SHIER, JAMES J. — James J. Shier, a graduate of the Middletown Mercury and 
Argus, was city editor there some time, and in the '8o's went to Port Jervis and 
secured an interest in the Gazette, where he remained until he died, June 2, 1893, 

HELLER, BURRELL.— An old Milford and Port Jervis printer and a good 
writer and reporter was Burrell Heller, who died late in the '8o's. He was em- 
ployed in various capacities on the Port Jervis papers, latterly as reporter on the 
Port Jervis Gazette. 

YOUNG, CHARLES O.— Charles O. Young, of Port Jervis, admitted to the bar 
as a lawyer in the '8o's, son of the late Oliver Young (a prominent lawyer of Port 
Jervis), edited the Port Jervis Daily Union several years. He is a most accom- 
plished writer, highly educated, a scholar, a linguist, and a man of high literary 
tastes. He prefers literature to law, and the Port Jervis papers are occasionally 
favored with emanations from his gifted pen. 

WILLIS, EVANDER B. — Evander B. Willis appeared in Middletown early in 
the '6o's, and learned the printer's trade, later becoming an expert stenographer, 
then reporter and editor, and for a time conducted the Middletown Mail. He was 
born at Unionville. Early in the '70's he went to California and became court 
stenographer. 

BENNET, JAMES. — One of the men who figured prominently in the western 
end of orange County newspaper circles for about a quarter of a century was 
James Bennet, of Port Jervis. He was a good newspaper man and had a knack 
for seeing the droll side of events and for putting the same into print, and some 
of his "yarns" were extremely witty. Mr. Bennet is the youngest son of James 
and Sarah Westfall Bennet, and he was born at Carpenter's Point (now Tri-States, 
and a part of the Fourth Ward of the city of Port Jervis). James Bennet gradu- 
ated at the famous old Mount Retirement Seminary in Sussex County, N. J., near 



JOURNALISM IN ORANGE COl'XTN'. 729 

Dcckcrtown (now Sussex), in 1863. He studied medicine two jears, and aban- 
doned the same to go into the flour and feed business in Port Jervis. In 1886 he 
accepted a position in the business and editorial department of the Port Jervis 
Gazette, and became associate editor. In 1889 he went with the Union, remaining 
there fifteen months, and then returned to his former position with the Gazette, 
where he remained until 1906, when he resigned to go into the insurance business — 
the retreat of so many old newspaper men. His wife was Alice Stiles, daughter of 
the late Edward A. Stiles, for so many useful years the principal and proprietor 
of the Mount Retirement Seminary. 

BARRET, LEON. — One of the brightest cartoonists of the metropolis, Leon 
Barret, began his work in Orange County, having come to Middletown in the '70's, 
where he conducted a book and stationery store at the corner of James and King 
streets. He soon developed a talent for drawing that attracted the notice ,of news- 
paper men, and Messrs. Macardell and Thompson found a place for him on the 
Argus and Mercury, and eventually took him into partnership. His artistic ability 
so rapidly improved, however, as to receive recognition from the New York press, 
and severing his connection with the Argus he went to the metropolis, where a 
wider field was afforded for the exercise of his remarkable talents, and where he 
has won fame and standing. 

WHEAT, WALLACE B.— Wallace B. Wheat, for the past twenty-five or thirty 
years, has been connected with the Port Jervis Gazette as typesetter and reporter, 
and for many years has been the local representative of the New York World. 

BENNET, JAMES EDWARD.— James Edward Bennet was the son of James 
Bennet, and for four years was a reporter for and city editor of the Port Jervis 
Gazette, and is now a practicing lawyer in New York City. 

PINE, COL. CHARLES N.— Col. Charles N. Pine was an old Philadelphia jour- 
nalist who, in the '90's, passed his last years on the Port Jervis Gazette, going there 
from ^Milford. He was brainy and brilliant. ?Ic died in Port Jervis. October 26, 
1894. 

BAILEY. WILLIAM P.— William F. Bailey through the 'go's was one of the 
most alert reporters that Middletown ever had. He was a graduate of the Press 
office, and bis work was always in the lead. He is now in the insurance business 
in New York City. 

GIBBS, WHITFIELD.— Whitfield Gibbs was, for a short time, in Orange 
County journalism, having been the owner of the U'alden Citizen late in the '90's. 
Mr. Gibbs now resides at Hackettstown, N. J. He is an able writer, and a good 
newspaper man. 

CRANE, STEPHEN.— Stephen Crane, the gifted author of "The Red Badge of 
Courage'' and other tales, and magazine and newspaper articles, began his literary 
career in Port Jervis. and did reporting a short time on the Daily Union. His 



730 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

father was a resident of that city, pastor of Drew M. E. Church, and died in that 
city. 

COREY, HORACE W.— Though connected with journalism only briefly and 
through his interest in the Middletown Sunday Forum (1897-99), Horace W. Corey 
gave evidence of unique ability in that work which, pursued, would have brought 
reward and fame. "His "sermons" and other satires were features that "pointed 
morals" where much needed. 

PENDELL, THOMAS.— Thomas Pendell came into Orange County through 
Cornwall (1889) and to Middletown in 1898-99 on the Forum; later on the Argus, 
and again on the Forum, which he removed to Massena, N. Y. He is a ready 
writer, a rapid worker, a practical printer, and one of the best all-round newspaper 
men that have ever tarried in Orange County. He is now publishing a paper at 
Peekskill. 

BLANCHARD, FRANK L.— Frank L. Blanchard, of New York, was connected 
with the Middletown Forum from December, 1907, to March or April, 1908. He is 
a good writer. 

IN THE HARNESS. 

Connected with the newspapers at the present time one finds an array 
of rising talent, the fourth generation of workers since journalism gained 
a foothold in Orange County. 

WILSON, FREDERICK WILLIAM.— In Newburgh the Newburgh Daily News 
has as editor Frederick William Wilson. To the energy and ability of Frederick 
W. Wilson, editor of the Newburgh Daily News and president and treasurer of the 
Newburgh News Printing and Publishing Co., is due in great measure the suc- 
cess that newspaper has achieved as a business proposition, and also its recognized 
standing among the leading newspapers of the State. 

Mr. Wilson's connection with the Nezvs dates almost from its inception, when as 
a lad in his teens he entered the business office of the paper in its second year of 
publication as bookkeeper. The founder of the Neius, the late William H. Keefe, 
was not slow to recognize the aptitude of the young man for the business, and in 
his twentieth year he practically had the entire business management of the then 
very modest Nczm establishment in his hands, Mr. Keefe confining himself princi- 
pally to the editorial conduct of the young and rapidly growing paper. 

Mr. Wilson was born October 8, 1869, near Brighton, the renowned watering- 
place in the south of England. His father, Henry Wilson, was a surgeon in the 
Britsh navy and saw service in the Crimean War. He died when the subject of this 
biography was but ten years old. After his death his widow, Sarah Jane Cleaver, 
daughter of a prominent woolen goods manufacturer and former mayor of North- 
ampton, came to Newburgh, where an older son. Dr. Henry Wilson, was established 



JOURNALISM IN (3RANGE COUNTY. 731 

in the practice of medicine. Other relatives Hved in New York and the New Eng- 
land States. She died here in 1894, leaving, besides the two sons mentioned, two 
daughters, Kathryn and Maude, both of whom are married arid live in New York 
City. 

Young Wilson evinced an early aptitude for literary work, and having completed 
his education, frequently contributed to the Nczcs, which about that time was 
started by its founder. 

In 1896 a company was organized to conduct the News. Mr. Wilson was one of 
the incorporators and directors, and at the meeting of the board of directors was 
chosen secretary and treasurer. Mr. Keefe was elected president. On the latter's 
death, in 1901, Mr. Wilson succeeded to the presidency of the company. He imme- 
diately set on foot plans for the enlargement of the paper and the betterment of 
its mechanical equipment. One of these was the introduction of typesetting ma- 
chines. Next the large double brick building, Nos. 40 and 42 Grand street, was pur- 
chased and remodeled into an up-to-date newspaper and printing plant at an outlay 
for alterations alone exceeding $15,000. A perfecting press (the first in the city; 
was installed therein, and the building was equipped with every known contrivance 
to facilitate the work of production of a modern newspaper. The plant and equip- 
ment to-day represent an investment of over $100,000, and the home of the News 
is regarded as one of the most complete and handsome newspaper establishments 
in the State. Simultaneously with the removal of the Nczcs to its new home (in 
the spring of 1902), Mr. Wilson changed the appearance of the paper by discard- 
ing the old-fashioned nine-column "blanket" sheet for the modern seven-column 
folio form — an innovation at that time for small city dailies, but now generally in 
vogue. The history of the paper under his direction has been one of evolution, 
progress and marked success. 

Besides being a fluent and forceful writer, Mr. Wilson possesses rare business 
tact and executive ability — a combination seldom found in newspaper men. 

He is a moving spirit in all that makes for the welfare and growth of Newburgh 
and is an earnest advocate both through his paper and orally, of progress and en- 
terprise in municipal matters. He is actively identified with the work of the Busi- 
ness Men's Association for a "greater Xewburgh," and is the chairman of the 
committee which has in hand the arrangements for Xewburgh's part in the cele- 
bration of the tercentenary of the discovery of the Hudson River and the centen- 
nial of the navigation of its waters by Robert Fulton's Clcntwvt, to be held in 
September, 1909. 

Mr. Wilson early displayed a liking for politics, his first inclination in tliat direc- 
tion finding vent in the organization of a juvenile "Tippecanoe Club," which par- 
ticipated in the local parades of the Harrison campaign of 1888. Later he took part 
in the organization of a club of young voters known as the Union League Club. 
The one hundred and fifty members unanimously elected him president. 

He has always been an admirer and earnest supporter of former Governor Odell. 
He was a delegate to the State convention at Saratoga in 1900. when Mr. Odcll was 
first nominated for the governorship, and again in 1902, when he was renominated. 



y^y-^ THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

He was also a delegate to the convention of 1904, which nominated Higgins, and 
to that of 1906, when Governor Hughes was nominated. He has himself never de- 
sired or held public office, but has been a factor in putting many of his friends in 
elective and appointive positions of trust. 

Mr. Wilson enlisted in the Tenth Separate Company at the age of eighteen and 
served six years. He volunteered to return to the ranks at the outbreak of the 
Spanish-American War and was offered a commission, but the company was not 
ordered to the front. 

He is active in social as well as business life, being a member of the Powelton 
Club, City Club and Newburgh Wheelmen, the Old Orchard Club of Middletown, 
and the Press Club and Republican Club of New York. He is a past exalted ruler 
of Newburgh Lodge of Elks ; a member of Continental Lodge No. 287, F. and A. 
M. ; Jerusalem Chapter No. 8, R. A. M. ; Palestine Commandery No. 18, K. T. ; 
New York Consistory, Scottish Rite, 32° ; Mecca Temple, Nobles of the Mystic 
Shrine ; president of the Wilbur H. Weston Shriners' Association ; president of 
the Newburgh Automobile Club, and a member of the New York State and Amer- 
ican Automobile Associations. 

Mr. Wilson resides in a handsome residence owned by him at 268 Liberty street, 
Newburgh. 

RUTTENBER, J. W. F.— The editor of the Newburgh Telegram is J. W. F. 
Ruttenber, who was born at Newburgh, N. Y., December 14, 1857. After receiving 
a good education in the public schools of his native city, he became associated in 
business for several years with his father, E. M. Ruttenber. Subsequently he em- 
barked in several newspaper ventures, and finally started the Newburgh Sunday 
Telegram in 1889. This is a non-partisan paper, and is especially devoted to local 
events and local characters, in the discvission of which a full opportunity is 
afforded the editor for the exercise of that wit and caustic humor, with which he is 
well equipped. The Telegram was a success financially from the start and has now 
developed into a very valuable newspaper plant. 

In Middletown the Times-Press has as editor John D. Stivers : as editorial writer 
Alexander W. Russell, and as city editor Melvin W. Brown. On the Argus the 
editor is A. B. Macardell, ably assisted by Henry P. Powers and Horace A. Mac- 
Gowan as city editors. The Signs of the Times is published by Gilbert Beebe's Son, 
with Elders F. A. Chick and H. C. Ker as editors. 

On the Port Jervis Union is Fred R. Salmon, business manager ; Merritt C. Spei- 
del, assistant and formerly city editor : W. T. Doty as editor, and Albert L. Stage, 
city editor. On the Gazette is Evi Shimer, business manager ; William H. Near- 
pass, editor; Mark V. Richards, city editor, and James Skellinger, assistant. The 
N'eiv York Farmer is edited by Henry A. Van Fredenberg. 

In Goshen Frank Drake is editor and manager of the oldest newspaper in Orange 
County, the Independent Republican; and George F. Gregg, the editor and man- 
ager of the next oldest paper, the Goshen Democrat. 



At Warwick the Advertiser's business manaj,aT and editor is Hiram Tate; uliile 
tin- / 'alley Dispatch has George F. Ketchum as editor and business manager. 

At Montgomery the old Standard and Reporter has Lyman Taft as editor and 
I)ni]irietor, with Charles H. Miller as associate editor. 

The ll'alden Herald's editor and proprietor is Ward Winfield ; and the Citizen 
has a clergyman editor and publisher in the Rev. J. H. Reid. 

At Cornwall-on-Hudson is the Local-Press, with L. G. Goodenough editor and 
proprietor. 

The Fine Bush Herald's editor and proprietor is George W. Jamison, a former 
school teacher and an educated man and good writer. 

Monroe has the Ramapo J 'alley Gazette (started March, 1908J, with J. B. Greg- 
ory as publisher and proprietor. 

The Oranye County Record at Washingtonvillc has Montanye Rightmcyer as 
editor and manager. 

JUST A FEW REFLECTION'S. 

Inspecting- the field of Orange County journalism one sees the glebe 
-strewn with wrecks of ambitious effort, and sympathy goes out to the 
disappointed strugglers. they of tattered aims and ambitions ; of immo- 
lated hopes and desires. 

Looking at the files and samples of the papers of to-day and the relics 
of early journalism in Orange County, one's pride over progress in certain 
lines is nii.xed with humiliation. The old papers were printed with artistic 
ideals. The type was neat, the page was pleasing to the eye, and the 
printer showed evidence of intelligence. Words were divided at the ends 
of lines with some idea of method and reason ; the break-lines were made 
neat. The old-time compositor who would have divided "campaign" on 
the "p" and lun "aign'' over, or worse yet, made a break-line of "ed," "ly." 
Mr a single or even two numerals, would have been laughed out of the 
office by his companions. The writer will never forget an incident in his 
own very early career at the "case." when he divided "Messrs," ruiniing 
the "srs." over into the next line. It was a long time before he heard the 
last of that break, and it was never repeated. To-day one sees all sorts 
of division.s — anywhere, everywhere : it matters not whether it is on the 
vowel or the syllable or between — it all goes. The outrage on neatness 
■)f a single numeral making a full break-line is no longer confined to the 
Macksmith" who was aiming to gel a "phat line." but is seen in the work 



734 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

turned out from the marvelous Mergenthaler linotype, the excuse being 
that it "takes too much time" to space and adjust the line neatly. This 
same excuse is given for a lot of other abominations — really intolerable 
and vexatious — that one sees in the machine-set newspaper. Really, if 
modern mechanical appliances are sweeping the "art preservative" back 
to the most crude and primitive specimens of workmanship, there is cause 
for deep regret. Neatness should go hand in hand with improved 
methods and aids. 

The old-time newspaper was not a hand-bill. It was a model of taste 
and neatness. The idea of the average editor, publisher and printer to- 
day seems to be how^ he can make his paper the most hideous to the eye, 
and to the esthetic senses. Big, black type for headlines, and glaring, 
sensational, spectacular, flaring "big heads" are the order of the day. 

Compare these modern newspapers with almost any of those printed 
one hundred, fifty, forty, thirty years ago. The contrast is so markedly in 
favor of the papers printed under the old regime that one who really 
loves the art is disgusted with modern printers and printing as applied to 
newspapers. 

This criticism, it should be borne in mind, is made with reference to 
newspapers, and not of "job work." The man who is getting out bill- 
heads, letter-heads, etc., is constantly striving for neatness, and his work 
is a great advance over that done by his predecessors in the "job depart- 
ment." This is as it should be. 

The modern job printer is an artist ; the modern newspaper printer a 
botch. The printer may blame the editor or publisher, but that does not 
excuse his vile distortions and caricatures on the art. The publisher or 
editor may blame the "popular demand" for his efforts to cater to the 
sensational and hideous ; but that does not help the matter any, nor does it 
tend to elevate the art of newspaper printing. 

Journalism, indeed, seems to have fallen, or wandered, into dangerous 
or demoralizing ways. This, also, is laid at the door of "popular de- 
mand," etc. The old-time editor had a personality, and this he infused 
into the. columns of his paper. He was not always right, of course, but 
the general tendency of such journalism was to breed a spirit of inde- 
pendence, of character, of research. The consensus thus evolved by 
the masses was wholesome. , ' ; 

.; To-day the editor is a mere machine. His individuality is' suppressed. 



JOURNALISM IX ORANGE COUNTY. 735 

and the effort is to keep him entirely under the thumb and rack-screw 
of the publisher, who manipulates the finances, the "business" end of the 
concern. This publisher generally gets his "cue" from his banker, who 
may be his backer, and, who, at any rate, sets the pace for editorials, 
news — and in fact the whole tone of the paper. In all this there is concert. 
From some great business center the word goes out, and the newspapers 
catch up the echo. In this way the individual, the great personality that 
once made the newspaper a power for good, is lost ; instead, the press has 
become a mob — the most dangerous mob that ever existed, for it comes 
in the guise of instruction, of morals, of culture, of learning. Thus mas- 
querading, journalism to-day is fast lapsing — or rather plunging — into 
a vortex that is positively appalling in its aspects. How and when the 
lemedy will come is of grave concern. The mob may, in sheer despera- 
tion, rend itself, commit hari-kari ; or it may go on until in frenzy, the 
long-deluded and outraged populace shall rise and revolutionize news- 
paperdom. 



736 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CHAPTER XXXVni. 

FREEMASONRY. 

By Charles H. Halstead. 

THE earliest authentic record of masonry in New York, or in fact 
in the American colonies, is the deputation appointing Daniel 
Coxe, of New Jersey, to be provincial grand master of New York, 
New Jersey and Pennsylvania, signed by the Duke of Norfolk, grand 
master of the gran;! lodge of England, and dated "this fifth day of 
June, 1730, and of Masonry 5730." 

From that date and until 1781 there were five dififerent masonic depu- 
tations granted to provincial grand masters for New York, by the grand 
lodge of England. 

During this period there were two provincial grand lodges in the State 
of New York, organized at different periods by authority of rival grand 
lodges in England, which were termed the "Moderns" and "Ancients." 

In 1813 these two grand bodies united into what is now the "United 
Grand Lodge of England." 

The provincial grand lodge authorized by the AthoU warrant, dated 
September 5, 1781, existed from December 5, 1782, to September 19, 1783. 
when the British troops evacuated New York City, and as the grand 
lodge was essentially a royalist institution, and a majority of its offtcers 
rnd members were connected with the evacuating army, the brethren were 
in a quandary, the solution of which we find in the minutes of a grand 
lodge of emergency, held on the nineteenth of September, 1783, when 
"The propriety of leaving the grand warrant by which this lodge is estab- 
lished in the province of New York, being fully discussed, it was resolved, 
that the same should be left and remain in the care of such brethren as 
may hereafter be appointed to succeed the present grand officers, the most 
of whom being under the necessity of leaving New York upon the 
removal of his majesty's troops." 

This necessitated the election of a complete new set of officers, whicli 
was immediately done. 



FREEMASONRY. 737 

The lodges throughout the State, wliicli had received cliarter> from 
the "Modern" provincial grand lodge, in the interim between the disso- 
lution of that body and the organization of the "Ancient" Provincial 
grand lodge had pursued an independent existence and naturally under 
their existing conditions, were loath to surrender their warrants to the 
new body ; therefore, it was a number of years before all the lodges were 
brought under the control of the new grand lodge. 

This j)rovincial grand lodge, so far as existing records show, made no 
returns to the parent grand body, and in all matters acted as an inde- 
[)endent grand lodge. 

This state of affairs caused some of the lodges to question the legality 
of its proceedings, and the propriety of paying grand lodge dues. 

This question was settled for all time on the sixth of June, 1787, by 
the grand lodge adopting t1i€ report of a committee which reported : 
"Your committee appointed at the last quarterly communication, in con- 
sequence of certain resolutions of St. John's lodge, respecting the warrant 
under which the grand lodge is established, report their opinion as fol- 
lows, viz. : That the grand lodge of this State is established, according to 
ancient and universal usages of masonry, upon a constitution formed by 
the representatives of the regular lodges, convened under a legal warrant 
from the grand lodge of England, dated the fifth day of September, in 
the year of masonry five thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, tlTe 
most noble Prince John the Third, Duke of Atholl. being the then grand 
master. .\nd your committee further beg leave to report that, in their 
opinion, nothing is necessary or essential in the future proceedings of the 
grand lodge upon the subject matter referred to them, but that a com- 
mittee be appointed to prepare a draft of the style of warrant to be here- 
after granted by the grand lodge, comformable to the said constitution. 
All of which is. nevertheless, most respectfully submitted to the wisdom of 
the most worshipfid grand lodge." In this manner the grand lodge de- 
clared itself an independent grand body, supreme within its own jurisdic- 
tion. The date of transition of the grand lodge from a ]:)rovincial to an 
independent State masonic organization might be a suliject of difference 
of opinion, but the grand lodge, however, numbers its annual communi- 
cations from the earlier date. viz.. 1781. under the charter issued by the 
".\ncients." 

The grand lodge of the State of Xew-^'t)r,k, under this charter, guar- 



738 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

antees certain rights and privileges to 775 masonic lodges having a mem- 
bership (December 31, 1906), of 146,026 master masons. 

At different times the grand lodge has been disrupted by internal strife 
and schisms which continued several years, but since June, 1858, peace 
and harmony have prevailed among the fraternity. 

The severest trial that freemasonry has had to endure was the anti- 
masonic crusade that began in 1826, which assailed the fraternity 
throughout the land and resulted in many of the lodges having their 
charters forfeited. 

A political party was founded at the time on prejudice and hatred. 
Politicians mounted the whirlwind, and rode into power on the storm. 
Fanatics in the forum, at the bar and in the pulpit inflamed the passions 
of men and aroused the bitterest enmity against freemasonry. Men of 
the highest social and masonic standing were threatened with political 
ostracism; to be a mason was to be an object of suspicion and often of 
persecution ; the lodge rooms were deserted, charters were surrendered, 
and the craft became disheartened at the situation. Some members of the 
fraternity openly declared their withdrawal and were known as "seceding 
masons" in the community. After ten years of bitter feeling and hatred 
against the society of Free and Accepted Masons, the storm of persecu- 
tion began to subside; the calmer and better judgment of men prevailed; 
the craft took courage and masonic lodges again opened their doors and 
resumed labor. In 1840 there was not a masonic lodge in Orange 
County. 

It would appear from the meager information given in the proceedings 
of grand lodge or in the minutes of subordinate lodges in the early days 
that the brethren were imbued with the idea that the very existence of 
the fraternity depended upon shrouding with great secrecy their every 
act and surroundings, consequently very few details can be gathered con- 
cerning matters that would make history. 

Steuben Lodge, No. 18. — The first mention of a masonic lodge in Or- 
ange ,County is found in the proceedings of grand lodge on the fourth of 
June, 1788, where we find this minute : "A petition from F. A. Morris 
and nine others praying for a warrant to hold a lodge at Newburgh, under 
the name of Steuben. Granted." 

Th charter was issued to Ebenezer Foote, master ; Francis Anderson 
Morris, senior warden, and Peter Nestell, junior warden, and was dated 



FREEMASONRY. 739 

September z"/, 1788. It was signed by Robert R. Livingston, grand 
master ; Richard Harrison, deputy grand master, and Jacob Morton, grand 
secretary. JJaron de Steuben was an honorary member of the lodge. The 
minutes embrace the period between the thirteenth of November, 1788, 
and the twenty-seventh of December, 1792. Doubtless the charter was 
surrendered soon after 1800, as at the communication of grand lodge of 
that year report was made of the irregularities that prevailed in Steuben 
lodge. This lodge is among the number whose charter cannot be revived 
by resolution of grand lodge. 

The charter and minute book of Steuben Lodge, No. 18, are in the 
keeping of Hudson River Lodge, No. 607, as custodian. 

St. John's Lodge, No. 21. — Subsequent to the disbandmcnt of the troops 
in the war of the Revolution the warrant of St. John's regimental lodge — 
the first military lodge warranted by New York or any provincial masonic 
power — was "taken by some of its members to Clark's Town, in the county 
of Orange, and here it remained until interest was revived in masonry by 
some of its officers in 1784, who came at that time under the jurisdiction 
of the grand lodge. 

Lodge meetings were held under this warrant at Warwick as well as at 
Clark's Town, when on the twenty-third of December, 1789, a petition 
signed by John Smith, David Miller and Thomas Wing, was made to 
grand lodge stating that they were the presiding officers of a lodge now 
held at Warwick, working under an old warrant and known by the name 
of St. John's Lodge, and formerly held at Clark's Town, and praying 
that, as the warrant properly belonged to the brethren at Clark's Town, 
'"a new warrant be issued to them as officers of a lodge to be held in the 
county of Orange, on the west side of the mountain, by the name of St. 
John's Lodge." The petition was granted and the warrant dated the 
twenty-sixth March, 1790. On December 4, 1793, the proxy of St. John's 
Lodge stated to grand lodge the low condition of the funds and ofTered as 
a compromise for the amount due the grand lodge the sum of £10, which 
was accepted. 

The lodge was represented by proxy in grand lodge as late as 1802, but 
does not appear thereafter until June 4. 1819, when "the numerical 
designation of St. John's Lodge, No. 19, held at Warwick, was clianged 
to No. 18." On June 12, 1822, "all lodges in arrears for dues for three 
years and upwards were summoned to show cause why their warrants 



740 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

should not be surrendered," and among the number was St. John's, No. 
i8. The charter was declared forfeited on the eighth of June, 1832, by 
grand lodge. 

Orange Lodge, No. 4^. — At a meeting of grand lodge held on the 
second of March, 1796, petitions for warrants were read and among the 
number was one "for a lodge to be held in the town of Goshen, by the 
name of Orange Lodge." The warrant was dated April 12, 1796. 

The lodge was represented by proxy in the grand lodge at the commu- 
nication of January 2, 1799, but thereafter we find no mention of it 
except in the "list of lodges whose charters cannot be revived conform- 
able to resolution of grand lodge adopted on the fourth of June, 1819." 

James' Lodge, No. 6j. On the 6th of September, 1797, a petition was 
presented to grand lodge "From Adam L Doll and others, to hold a lodge 
in the town of Middletown, county of Ulster, by the name of James' 
Lodge, and the same was referred to the grand officers." At' that time 
Middletown was embraced in the county of Ulster. The warrant was 
dated January 6th, 1798, No other information is obtainable concerning 
this lodge, but it appears as one of the lodges whose charters cannot be 
revived. 

Montgomery Lodge, No. 7/. The minutes of grand lodge of Decem- 
ber 7th, 1796, read : "The petition of Brother John Schmidt and sundry 
other brethren, for a warrant to erect and hold a lodge in the town of 
Montgomery, county of Ulster, with some accompanying papers, were 
then severally read, and referred to the presiding officers of the grand 
lodge, with powers to order a warrant to be issued if they find the appli- 
cants deserving." The warrant was not issued, however, until the 6th of 
June, 1798, when the dispensation was returned to grand lodge. The 
lodge was represented by proxy in grand lodge up to the 4th of March, 
1812. The warrant was doubtless forfeited some years later. 

Olive Branch Lodge, No. 102. At the communication of grand lodge, 
held on the 7th of December, 1803, we find this minute : "A similar 
petition from sundry brethren residing in the town of Minisink, Orange 
County, praying a warrant for a lodge to be held in said town, to be 
known by the name of Olive Branch Lodge, was read and referred to the 
grand officers." The lodge was located in the village of West Town, and 
its meetings were held on the upper floor of the academy building. On 
December 4th, 181 1, "Olive Branch Lodge, No. 102, prayed that the 



FREEMASONRY. 741 

l)aymciit of their dues (to grand lodge) might be jjostponed until the 
next year on account of several losses sustained by the lodge the present 
year, which was granted." The lodge was reported as being in arrears 
for (Urs fur two years and upwards in 1822. The charter was declared 
forfeited, June 8, 1832. 

Hiram Lodge, Xo. i^i. At the communication of grand lodge, held 
(in the 19th of February, 1806, "A petition from sundry brethren to 
establish a lodge at Newburgh, by the name of Hiram Lodge, was read 
and the i)rayer thereof granted." The first officers of the lodge named in 
the charter were Jonathan Fisk, master ; Charles Baker, senior warden ; 
John R. Drake, junior warden. 

(icneral Lafayette was the guest of Hiram Lodge on the occasion of 
his visit to Xewburgh on the 14th of September, 1824. 

The charter was surrendered to grand lodge in 1835. 

The anti-masonic furor having subsided, the brethren sought to reopen 
the lodge, and to that end presented a petition to grand lodge that the 
charter might be restored to them, which was granted in June. 1842, but 
the inunlxT of the lodge was changed to 92. The first ofificers under the 
revived charter were Peter F. Hunn. master; Minard Harris, senior 
warden : James Belknap, junior warden. The last record of the lodge 
is dated June 16. 1845, and we infer that the charter was soon thereafter 
surrendered to grand lodge. The charter of Hiram Lodge is now in the 
keeping of Hudson River Lodge, No. 607, as custodian. 

Mount Moriah Lodge, Xo. i8q. A petition was presented to grand 
lodge to establish: "A lodge in the town of Wallkill. its meetings to be 
holden at the house of Thomas Everson or others in the said town of 
Wallkill. ■■ .\ charter was granted under date of December 0th, 1809. 
Doubtless the lodge was held for some years in private dwellings as on the 
2(1 of December. 1812, at the communication of grand lodge: "A petition 
from Mount Moriah Lodge. No. 189, held at Wallkill. Orange County, 
praying for a remission of dues in consideration of its having built a 
commodious lodge room. i<n- the expenses of which it v/as still in arrears, 
w as i)resented and read, and the prayer of the petitioner refused." Doubt- 
less the lodge at that time was held in the upper room of the school build- 
ing -n the village of Mount Hope, as at a later date masonic emblems, 
carved in wood, vvcre to be seen in the ro<^m then used for school pur- 
poses. 



742 



THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



Returns were made to grand lodge as from Wallkill, and also, "Re- 
turn of Mount Moriah Lodge, No. 189, held at Mount Hope, Wallkill, 
county of Orange, and State of New York." The charter of this lodge 
was declared forfeited on the 4th of June, 1835. 

Corncr-Stone Lodge, No. 2ji. At the communication of grand lodge, 
held on the 2d of March, 181 2, "A petition for a warrant to hold a lodge 
in the town of Monroe, in the county of Orange, to be called Corner- 
stone Lodge ; recommended by Washington Lodge, No. 220, was read 
and granted." The warrant was dated May 26, 1814. This lodge is 
among the number in arrears for dues for two years and upwards on 
the 24th of June, 1822. The charter was declared forfeited on the 24th 
of June, 1832. 

Jerusalem Temple Lodge, No. 24"/. At the communication of grand 
lodge, held on the 6th of September, 1815: "A petition from a number of 
the brethren to hold a lodge in the town of Cornwall, in the county of 
Orange, to be called Jerusalem Temple Lodge ; recommended by Hiram 
Lodge, No. 131, was read and granted." 

The lodge was constituted at the house of Ebenezer Crissey, in the 
village of Canterbury on the 5th of October of the same year; James B. 
Reynolds, master of Hiram Lodge, No. 131, performed the ceremony. 
The first officers named in the charter were Wyatt Carr, master ; Abra- 
ham Mead, senior warden; Southerland Moore, junior warden. The 
charter was declared forfeited June 8th, 1832. 

Washington Lodge, No. 220. This lodge was located at Blooming 
Grove. The charter was dated June loth, 1813. No record of its w'ork 
is extant, but it was one of those lodges that went down in the anti- 
masonic period, and its charter was declared forfeited by grand lodge 
on the 5th of June, 1834. 

Lawrence Lodge, No. 2jo. On the ist of December, 181 2, the pro- 
ceedings of grand lodge read : "A petition for a warrant to hold a lodge 
at Ward's Bridge, in the county of Orange, to be called Lawrence 
Lodge, recommended by Hiram Lodge, No. 131. was read and 
granted. 

Ward's Bridge was afterwards known as Montgomery. The lodge 
was doubtless named in honor of the gallant Captain James Lawrence,, 
who, being mortally wounded in the engagement with the Shannon, 
uttered : "Don't give up the ship !" which have become household words 



FREEMASONRY. 743 

in this country. The lodge was rei)orte(l as inoperative on tlie 4lh of 
June, 1819. 

Hoffman Lodge, A'O. ^00. At the communication of nrrand lodge on 
the 4th of March, 1818, the grand secretary stated that a warrant had 
been issued "on the 3d of December, 18 17, to John Kirby, Stacey Ueecher 
and Isaac Otis, to hold a lodge at Wallkill, in the county of Orange, by 
the name of Hofifman Lodge, No. 300." The lodge held its meetings in 
the house of Isaac Otis, at AFechanicstown, which at that time was a more 
pretentious i)lace than ^liddletown. The lodge was named in honor of 
Martin Hoffman who was grand master of the (city) grand lodge during 
1823, 1824 and 1825. He presented the lodge with a copy of the Holy 
Bible which is still in use by Hofifman Lodge, No. 412. The charter of 
this lodge was declared forfeited by grand lodge on the 7th of June. 1833. 

Union Lodge, No. ^og. The minutes of grand lodge under date of 
July 9, 1828, read: "A dispensation granted by the Rt. Worshipful Rich- 
ard Hatfield, late D. G. M., to hold a lodge in the town of Montgomery, 
county of Orange, by the name and style of Union Lodge, recommended 
by Hiram Lodge, No. 131, at Newburgh, was presented, whereupon the 
grand secretary was ordered to issue a warrant appointing \\^illiam 
Williamson, the first master, Daniel Cozens, the first senior warden and 
Samuel Bookstaver, the first junior warden." 

It is rather remarkable that in the midst of the anti-masonic excitement 
a new masonic lodge should have been established in that locality, but 
it did not long continue, as w'e note that the charter was declared for- 
feited on the 4th of June, 1835. 

Mount JVillioni Lodge, A^o. /62. A charter was granted by grand 
lodge on the 4th of June, 1875. to hold a lodge at Port Jervis, to be 
known as Mount William Lodge, No. y62. From the report of the dis- 
trict deputy we find that the reason given for surrendering the charter 
was that the numerous societies in that village was a hindrance to in- 
creasing its membership. The warrant was surrendered to grand lodge 
on the 20th of June, 1882. 

The lodges above enumerated have all ceased to exist, and their records, 
with few exceptions, have been lost. In some instances the charters have 
been given to lodges that have since been organized in the same Ic^cality 
and they are prized for the association connected with them. 

The thirteenth masonic district, as now formed, embraces the counties 



744 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of Orange and Rockland, and contains sixteen masonic lodges within its 
jurisdiction. The county of Orange has ten masonic lodges within its 
borders, and it is with these we now have to do. 

Newburgh Lodge, No. jop. — This lodge is located at Newburgh. The 
charter is dated June nth, 1853, and was issued to John Gray, master; 
Andrew L.awson, -enior warden, and Henry O. Heustis, junior warden. 
The lodge held its communications in a building situated on the southwest 
corner of Front and Third streets, known as Crawford's Hall, from the 
28th of July, 1853. ^^ which date the hall was dedicated to masonic pur- 
poses. Here it continued until the 24th of June, 1863, when it was moved 
to the new building erected on the northwest corner of Colden street and 
Western avenue — afterwards known as Broadway. In this hall all the 
masonic bodies in Newburgh met for the succeeding twenty-five years. 
These quarters becoming inadequate for the membership, a lease of the 
two upper floors in the new Academy of Music, situated on the northwest 
corner of Broadway and Grand street, was secured. This hall was dedi- 
cated on the iTth of September, 1888. The membership of Newburgh 
Lodge on the ist of June. 1907, was 370 master masons. The officers 
were Charles B. Gilchrist, master ; Thomas George Courtney, senior 
warden ; Feter (^antline, junior warden ; James D McGififert, secretary. 

Port Jervis Lodge, No. ^28. — This lodge is located at Port Jervis. The 
charter is dated June 30th, 1S54, and was issued to Alfred Barkley, mas- 
ter ; John M. Heller, senior warden; and O. H. Mott, junior warden. 
William H. Stewart was the first secretary. 

The membership of Port Jervis Lodge on the ist of June, 1907, was 
252 master masons. The officers were Jacob Miller, master; Fred Terwil- 
liger, senior warden; L. C. Senger, Jr., junior warden; Emmet A. 
Browne, secretary. 

Goshen Lodge, No. ^65. — This lodge is located at Goshen. The charter 
is dated June 26th, 1855, and was issued to Alvin Pease, master; Charles 
Monell, senior warden; and EHas Peck, junior warden. Benjamin C. 
Jackson was the first secretary. The membership of Goshen Lodge on 
the 1st of June. 1907, was 107 master masons. The officers were John 
F. Halstead. master ; William N. Hoffman, senior warden ; Charles H. 
Thompson, junior warden; George Mullenix, secretary. 

Hoffman Lodge, No. 412 — This lodge is located at Middletown. The 
charter is dated June i6th, 1857, and was issued to Alexander Wilsni-:. 



FREEMASONRY. 745 

iiiastcr ; Silas R. Martine, senior warck-ii, and Daniel C DusenhL-rn. jnnior 
warden. K. L>. Graham was the first secretary. The membership of 
Hoffman Lodge on the ist of Jnne, 1907, was 487 master masons. The 
officers were Nathan D. Mills, master; John H. (jalloway, senior warden; 
Burton L. LaMonte, junior warden; Lsaac B. A. Taylor, secretary. 

JVam^ich Lodge, Ac. s/./. — This lodge is located at Warwick. The 
charter is dated July 19, 1864, and was issued to E. M. Smith, master; 
Benjamin Corwin, senior warden; Charles W. Douglass, junior warden. 
John N. Wood was the first secretary. The membership of Warwick 
Lodge on the ist of June. 1907, was ninety-eight master masons. The 
officers were Calvin C. Crawford, master: Frank Holbert. senior warden : 
John Mullinbrin.k, junior warden; Harry Vafil, secretary. 

Hudson River Lodge, No day. — This lodge is located at Ncwburgh. 
The charter is dated July 12th, 1866. and was issued to David A. Scott, 
master; G. Frederick Wiltsie, senior warden; Samuel Stanton, junior 
warden. John Alsdorf was the first secretar}-. The membership of Hud- 
son River Lodge on the 1st of June. Kp/. was 4'.5 master masons. The 
officers were ]\rilton D. Seymour, master; Walter S. Carvev, senior 
warden; Cyrus II. Johnston, junior warden: Charles II. 1 lalstead, sec- 
retary. 

IVaUkill Lodge, Xo. 62J. — This lodge is located at Waldcn. The charter 
is dated June 24. 1867. and was issued to Flugh B. Bull, master; Constant 
W. Wadsworth. senior warden, and Kobcrt Voun-.;. junior warden. W. J. 
Welsh was the first secretary. The lodge was instituted at Montgomery, 
hut by permission of grand lodge, under date of June 7th, 1878. was 
:noved to Walden. The mcmbershi]) of Wallkill Lodge on the ist of 
June, 1907. was 159 master masons. The officers were George L. Sharp, 
master; Benjamin S. French, senior warden: Edgar C. Mullen, junior 
warden ; Charles K. Holden, secretary. 

Standard Lodge, Xo. ju. — This lodge is located at Monroe. The 
charter is dated July 2^. 1871. and was issued to John F. Mackie. master; 
Xichi'las Denierest. senior warden, and Thomas II. liryan. junior warden. 
l-]7.ra r. Jackson was the first secretary. The lodge was instituted at 
( "hester. but held its meetings at Fast Chester. \s many of the memlxMs 
resided in the vicinity of Monroe a petition was made t<» grand lodge thai 
the lodge might be moved to that village, which was done by dispensa- 
lv)U iin the 81I1 of b\0>ruarv. 1884. The membership of .Standard Lodge 



746 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

on the 1st of June, 1907, was 200 master masons. The officers were 
Edward D. Woodhull, master; Charles N. Walton, senior warden; Ber- 
nard W. Tench, junior warden ; Stacy Gaunt, secretary. 

Jerusalem Temple Lodge, No. J2i. — This lodge is located at Cornwall- 
on-Hudson. The charter is dated June 14th, 1872, and was issued to 
Charles McClean, master ; Gustavus H. Black, senior warden, and Henry 
Rodermond, juniot warden. Charles C. Van Duzer was the first secre- 
tary. The lodge was instituted in the village of Canterbury, where meet- 
ings were held until September, 1883, when it was moved to Cornwall- 
on-Hudson. The membership of Jerusalem Temple Lodge on the ist of 
Jvme, 1907, was seventy master masons. The officers were Harvey A. 
Call, master; Arthur H. Walker, senior warden; Walter S. Babcock, 
junior warden ; John M. Noe, secretary. 

LorWlard Lodge, N,o. 8f,8. — This lodge is located at Tuxedo. The 
charter was granted by grand lodge on the 9th of may, 1907. The lodge 
was instituted on the 4th of June, 1907. The membership of Lorillard 
Lodge on the ist of June, 1907, was fifty master masons. The officers 
were Charles W. Cooley, master; Edwin C. Rushmore, senior warden-^ 
Newton D. Phillips, junior warden ; John J. Strudwik, secretary. 

The early history of the grand chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the 
State of New York is so obscure that but little information concerning 
its subordinates is obtainable. 

It is a well established fact, however, that the Royal Arch degree was 
conferred in the State of New York under lodge charters prior to the 
formation of the grand chapter of New York in 1798. On the 14th of 
March, 1798, five chapters organized and established a deputy grand 
chapter subordinate to the grand chapter of the Northern States for the 
State of New York. 

Companion DeWitt Clinton was elected deputy grand high priest. The 
prefix "deputy" was dropped in 1799, and thereafter they were designated 
"grand chapters." At one period mark lodges were a distinct organiza- 
tion yet subject to, and received authority from, the grand chapter. The 
degree of mark master is now conferred in a chapter of Royal Arch 
Masons, and the charters of mark lodges in this State have been surren- 
dered to the grand chapter. But two mark lodges are known to have been 
organized in the county of Orange. 

Orange Mark Lodge, No. 57. — This lodge was located at Goshen. A 



. FREEMASONRY. 747 

charter was j^rantcd on the 8th of February, i<So9. to William Elliott, 
William A. Thom.pson and Edward Ely. 

Hirom Mark Lodge, A'o. 7 . — This lodge was located at Xewburgh. A 
charter was g^ranted on the 3d of February, 1S13. to Sylvanus Jessup, 
fame.- Williams, and George Gordon. 

Orange Chapter, No. ??. — This chapter of Royal Arch Masons was 
located at Minisink. A charter was granted on the 6th of February, 1812, 
to Uriah Hulse, James D. Wadsworth and Malcomb Campbell. 

JernsaJem Temple Chapter. No. s'p. — At the annual convocation of 
grand chapter, held on the 6th of February, 1817, a charter was granted: 
*'To Comps. James Reynolds, William Ross and William P. Lott, to 
hold a chapter at Newburgh. county of Orange, by the name of Jerusalem 
Temple Chapter, Xo. 52." The last written record of a convocation is 
dated May ist, 1828. The seal, record book and ledger of Jerusalem 
Temple Chapter are now in possession of Highland Chapter, Xo. 52, 
Newburgh, X. Y. 

The charters of these organizations have either been surrendered or 
forfeited, as they are no longer in existence. 

There are but three chapters of Royal Arch Masons at present located 
in Orange County. 

Highiai'.d Chapter, No. ^2. — This chapter is located at Xewburgh. At 
the annual convocation of grand chapter held on the 3d of February, 
1864, "A warrant was granted to Comp. John P.. Stanbrough, high priest; 
Comp. Joseph H. FI. Cbapman, king: Comp. George C. Pennell. scribe, 
and others, to hold a chapter at Xewburgh, to be known as Highland 
Chapter, Xo. 52." In the application for a warrant the request was made 
that the old number afifixed to Jerusalem Temple Chapter, "52," be 
assigned to the new chapter, and the request was granted. The member- 
ship of Highhmd Chapter on the ist of June, 1907, was 340 Royal Arch 
Masons. The ofihcers were James D. McGiffert, high priest : ^^'illianV D. 
Traphagen, king; John T. Swnnn. scribe: Charles H. Halstead, secre- 
tary. , 

Neversink Chapter. No. 1S6. — This chapter is located at Port Jenis. 
The officers named in the charter, dated February 8th, 1865. were Philip 
Lee. high priest; Charles \\'. Douglas, king: Lewis L. Adams, scribe. 
The chapter was instituted on the i6th of ^farch. 1865. The membership 
of Xeversink Chapter on the ist of June. i/X>7. was sixty-six Royal .Arch 



748 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Masons. The officers were S. G. McDonald, higli priest; Jacob Miller, 
king; Joiin Stoll, Jr., scribe; Herbert Senger, secretary. 

Midland Chapter, No. 240. — This chapter is located at Middletown. 
The charter is dated February 3d, 1870. and was issued to Alexander 
Wilson, high priest ; Elisha 1\ Wheeler, king : Moses D. Stivers, scribe. 
The first secretary was George H. Decker. The membership of Midland 
Chapter on the ist of June, 1007. was 170 Royal Arch Masons. The 
officers were Charles V. Pedmore, high priest; William L. Mitchell, king; 
Frank H. F"inn, scribe; John A. AVallace. secretary. 

The commencement of the Templar Order in New York is involved in 
great obscurity ; yet there were several bodies, having no authority what- 
ever, which were organized at an early date. The grand encampment 
(commandery) of New York was formed on the 22d of January, 1814, 
by the sovereign grand consistory, which decreed the establishment of 
the grand encampment of Sir Knights Templars and appendant orders for 
the State of New York, and immediately proceeded to elect officers who 
were all members of said consistory. In i8t6 a warrant was granted to 
Columbia Commandery in New York City ; and a warrant on the same 
day was issued to a new commandery in New Orleans. 

The numerous encampnients of Knights Templar existing in the State 
at that time were self-created bodies, governed by their own private laws, 
acknowledging no superior authority, because, in fact, none heretofore 
existed. 

The grand encampment of New York by its representatives assisted in 
forming the general grand encampment of the United States of America 
on the iith of Decen)ber, 1820. 

There are but three commanderics of Knights Templar in the county 
of C)range. 

Hudson River Coiiimandery, No. J5. — This commandery is located at 
Newburgh. The charter is dated September 27, 1865, and was issued 
to Hugh McCutcheon, eminent commander; Lendon S. Straw, general- 
issimo; Isaac C. Chapman, captain general. l"he membership on the ist 
of June, 1907, was 295 sir knights. The officers were Samuel F. Brown, 
eminent commander; Harry L. Barnum, generalissimo; Charles J. Stones, 
captain general ; Sylvester W. Holdredge, recorder. 

Dehnvare Comr.tandei'y. No 44. — This commandery is located at Port 
Jervis. The charter is dated October 6th, 1869, and was issued to 



FREEMASOXRV. 749 

Charles B. Gray, eminent comiiiander ; Joseph W . Weed, generahs>inio; 
Abraham Kirkman, captain general. Charles T. Branch was the tirst 
recorder. The membership on the 1st of June, 1907, was eighty-one sir 
knights. The officers were Theodore Mackrell, eminent commander; 
John Stoll, Jr., generalissimo; Harry J. i'ippitt, captain general; Lewis 
C. Seager, recorder. 

Cyprus Commandery, No. 6j. — This commandery is located at Middle- 
town. The charter is dated Cictobcr 5th, i'.p4, and was issued to Charles 
Reeve Smith, eminent commander; Ira Lee Case, generalissimo; Frank 
Olin Tompkms, captain general. Lsaac B. A. Taylor was the first recorder. 
The membership on the ist of Jime, 1907, was 114 sir knights. The 
officers were Charles Chester Bogart, eminent commander ; Charles W es- 
ley Rodgers, generalissimo; Ames Everett Mclntyre, captain general; 
Isaac B. A. Taylor, recorder. 

Cryptic Masonry has been recognized as a part of the American system 
of freemasonry in the State of New York smce 1807, when a grand 
council of Royal and Select Masters was duly organized. 

This branch of freemasonry has never been popular with the craft in this 
State, as the degrees, of which there are three, conferred in a council, 
have not been made prerequisite to admission to a commandery of 
Knights Templar, although several attempts have been made to 
that end. 

King Solomon Council, No. 5/. — This council is at this date located at 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. On the loth of December. 1867, a council of 
Royal and Select Masters was opened under dispensation at Poughkeepsie, 
N. Y., which was known as "Union Council." The first officers were E. H. 
Parker, T. L AL ; G. Fred Wiltsie, R. I. M.; A. B. Smith. 1'. C. W. At 
the annual assembly of the grand council, held on the 4th of I''ebruar\ . 
1868, a warrant was issued, and the name changed to King Solomon 
Council, No. 31, and the jurisdiction extended to include the city of 
Newburgh, N. Y. King Solomon Council held stated assemblies at New- 
burgh from the i8th of March, 1869, to the 8th of December, 1879, when 
it was deemed for the interest of the organization that it be removed to 
Poughkeepsie, where it holds assemblies at the call of the thrice illustrious 
master. 

The Ancient and .Accepted Scottish Rite was introduced in the State 
of New York in 1813, by the formation, in the city of New York, of a 



750 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

supreme council for the northern jurisdiction. For some time previous a 
lodge of perfection of this rite existed at Albany, N. Y. 

Adoiiai Lodge of Perfection, located at Newburgh, N. Y., was granted 
a charter in September, 1873. The lodge conferred the degrees from the 
fourth to the fourteenth inclusive. In 1880 the lodge ceased to meet, but 
the charter was not surrendered, being held in abeyance subject to the 
action of the members in this locality. 

What is known as the American Adoptive Rite, called the "Order of 
the Eastern Star," was created by Robert Morris, a distinguished free- 
mason. It sought to provide an organization that would be of benefit 
to the wives, mothers, sisters and daughters of master masons by intro- 
ducing signs, grips and pass-word that would be recognized by the craft 
generally. For a time it was a popular institution, then came a season 
of depression, until finally the degrees were rewritten and the ritual made 
less complex. While this order has not been recognized in this State as 
a masonic body by the grand lodge, still it does receive recognition and 
support from a large number of the craft who feel that it is a valuable 
adjunct to freemasonry. 

The grand chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star was organized 
thirty-eight years ago. There are at this date over 350 subordinate chap- 
ters in the State, embracing a membership of over 26,000. There are five 
chapters in Orange County. 

Orange Chapter. No. 33, is located at Port Jervis ; Queen Esther 
Chapter, No. 163, is located at Middletown ; Hawthorne Chapter, No. 
163, is located at Monroe. A. J. Moor Chapter, No. 398, is located at 
Goslien. At this date (June, 1907), these chapters are in a flourishing 
condition. 




Guy Miller. 



HORSE L;Ri':i':r)iXG ix oraxge couxtv. 751 

CHAPTER XXXIX. 

HORSE BREEDIXG IX ORAX(iE COl'XTV. 

I5v Guy Miller. 

THE lay of the land in Orange County, hills and valleys, with the 
farms divided in sueh a manner that each one has a proportion 
of high uplands, as well as low meadows, enables the breeder 
to tide over wet as well as dry seasons. 

If the season is wet for the low meadows, the uplands make luxuriant 
growth, and in a season of drought the lowland pastures and meadows 
can be depended upon for a good supply. The writer has farmed forty - 
two vears at his home farm and there has never been a season when 
grass has really failed for animals at pasture or for hay making. 

In seeding land in Orange County, timothy, redtop and the clovers 
have been the principal seeds used in the past. In time these run out. 
giving way to grasses that appear natural to this section, viz.. June grass, 
white clover and senica grass. These varieties start growing early and 
continue late, thus making the pasturing season a long one. Cut for hay, 
the quantity of the latter is not equal to that first mentioned, yet the 
quality is considered far superior. 

Orange County being well watered in addition to its abundant supply 
of the best natural grasses, makes it an ideal horse-breeding section. 

Imported Messenger appears to have been the fountain-head of the 
highest type of the American light harness horse. 

Imp. Messenger w^as in service at Goshen in 1801. Jonas Seely, Sr.. 
of Oxford, had a large strong mare of great endurance known as Black 
Jin, and this mare bred to Imp. ^Messenger produced Silver Tail. 

In 1814, the son of Imp. Messenger, known as Hambletonian, made 
the season in Goshen, yet on certain days of each week was taken to Elor- 
ida for service. Silver Tail was bred to Hambletonian and produced One 
Eye, the latter a grand animal and fast trotter for her day. 

When Imp. PjcI founder was in service at W'ashingtonvillc. the season 
of 1832. Josiah Jackson, of Clxford. owned One Eye, and bred her to 



752 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

that horse, producing a mare that was a high-class trotter, and is known 
as the Charles Kent mare. 

The Charles Kent mare had passed through the hands of several own- 
ers to Jonas Seely, of Sugar Loaf. On June 5, 1848, he bred her to 
Abdallah and on May 5, 1849, ^ bay colt with a small star and white 
hind ankles, was born. 

In the fall of that year the Charles Kent mare and her foal were pur- 
chased by Wm. M. Rysdyk, a farmer of Chester. 

Mr. Rysdyk was born on a farm between Florida and Goshen. He 
frequently saw the son of Imp. Messenger (known later as Bishop's 
Hambletonian), pass his home on trips between the above villages, and, 
although very young, was so impressed by the rare qualities of the 
horse, that he chose his name for his own colt, now known as the "great 
progenitor of trotters," Rysdyk's Hambletonian. 

It will be observed that this colt was by Abdallah, a grandson of Imp. 
Messenger. His granddam was by Bishop's Hambletonian, a son of Imp. 
Messenger and his great -granddam a daughter of Imp. Messenger. The 
blood of this imported horse had given great results in the localities 
where he had been in service, and the same was true relative to his de- 
scendants, particularly so in the case of his son. Bishop's Hambletonian 
and his grandson, Abdallah. 

Imp. Bellfounder's individuality, his beautiful trotting action and strong- 
inclination to stick to that gait, commanded the admiration of horse 
lovers. His daughter, the Chas. Kent mare, produced Hambletonian, a 
daughter of his son. King's Bellfounder, produced the race winning 
trotter Sir Walter, record 2.27, also by Abdallah. Another daughter 
produced to Cassius M. Clay, Jr., Harry Clay, record 2.29. the greatest 
of the Clay family as a brood mare sire. 

Rysdyk's Hambletonian carried three crosses of Imp. Messenger blood, 
concentrated in the first four generations. It was this unparalleled 
wealth of Messenger blood, his rare temperament and individuality, and 
the fact that Mr. Rysdyk had driven him, the third time harnessed to a 
sulkey, a mile in 2.48^, on the Union Course, Long Island, the fall he 
was three years old, that gave his owner unbounded confidence in the 
colt's future. This, the breeding public must have shared, as at four 
years of age he served one hundred and one mares, producing seventy- 
eight colts at $25.00 each, thus earning for his owner $1,950. 



HORSE BREEDING IX ORANGE COUNTY. 753 

111 the late fall of that year two Virginia gentlemen, looking for a 
stock horse, visited Mr. Rysdyk's place, and after examining Hamble- 
tonian, stood ready to buy him at $10,000, yet Mr. Rysdyk would not 
sell. 

How well this confidence in the horse's value was borne out in after 
years, for as soon as Hambletonian's colts had become two and three 
years old and were placed on exhibition at the fairs, their high quality, 
fine general characteristics, superb trotting action and being almost uni- 
form in rich bay colors, won them nearly all the prizes. 

At the Orange County Fair, Fall of 1853. 

In Show Class. 

First prize was awarded to Hambletonian by .A^bdallah. 
Second prize — Rattler. 

At the Orange County Fair, September 2ist, 22nd, 1858. i^ 

In SJwiu Class for Aged Stallions. 

First prize was awarded to Edsall's Hambletonian (Alexander's Abdallah ) by Ham- 
bletonian J. S. Edsall 

Second prize — Washington J. D. Veruol 

Third prize — Harry Clay by Cassius M. Clay J. D. Sayer 

In the Speed Classes for 4 Yr. Old Marcs. 

First prize — Lady Howard by Hambletonian. J. W. Hoyt Time, 3.02 

Second prize — Alida by Hambletonian. M. F. Ten Eyck " 3.03 

Best 5 Yr. Olds. 

First prize — Lady Banker by Hambletonian. R. Galloway Time, 2.31 

Second prize — Frank Dickerson by Hambletonian. Geo. Payne " 2.535/2 

Third prize — Jenny Hawkins by American Star. J. J. McNally " 2.54 

Best 3 Yr. Old Stallion. 

First prize — Guy Miller by Hambletonian. R. F. Galloway Time, 3.00 

Second prize — Young Abdallah. Geo Payne " 3.24 

Third prize — Inde.x, Seely C. Roe " 3.26 

Best 4 Yr. Old Stallion. 

First prize — Hambletonian 2nd (Volunteer) by Hambletonian. Joseph Hetzel. 

Time, 2.57 

Second prize — .'\bdallah by Hambletonian. Witi. M. Rysdyk " 304^ 

Third prize — Tom Thumb (Wild Warrior). Robt. Carr " 3.10 

Best 5 Yr. Old Stallion. 

First prize — Harry Clay by Cassius M. Clay. J. P. Sa^'er Time. 2.56 

Second prize — C. M. Clay. C. J. Brown " 3.14 



754 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Stallions Free for All. ' 

First prize — American Star. Edmund Seely. Time, 2.50 

Second prize — Harry Clay by Cassius M. Clay. J. P. Sayer " 2.53 

Third prize — Edsall's Hambletonian (Alexander's Abdallah) by llim- 

bletonian. J. S. Edsall '• 2.54 

Marcs Free for All. 

Eirst prize — Mary Hoyt by American Star. J. W. Hoyt Time, 2.36^4 

Second prize — Goshen Maid by American Star. Edmund Seely " 2.44]/^ 

Third prize — Lyd by Bolivar. Amos Ryerson " 2.52 

The above summaries show that in every speed class for colts, the get 
of Hambletonian were the winners and one of the very first of that 
horse's get, Edsall's Hambletonian (Alexander's Abdallah j in stallion 
class for show, was awarded first prize. 

It is of interest to note that in the class for mares of all ages, Mary 
Hoyt's record of 2.36^ was the first record performance better than 
2.40 on the Goshen track and she w^as in the hands of the best horse- 
man of his time, J. W. Hoyt. This performance shows the real value 
of the colt records, they having no track education and no modern ap- 
pliances such as boots, etc. 

Mr. Joseph Hetzel, a farmer near Florida, related to the writer years 
later, that he had no idea of competing in the speed class with his colt 
Hambletonian 2nd (Volunteer), and so informed inquirers at Goshen, 
yet when it was confided to him that it had been said "he dare not," "his 
Dutch was aroused," he borrowed a skeleton wagon and harness and at 
his request the judges permitted him to start behind the other entries. 
Mr. Hetzel made no attempt for the lead until passing the stand the sec- 
ond time when he gave his colt his head, soon obtaining a commanding 
lead and finishing more than seven seconds ahead of his nearest com- 
petitor. Such an ovation as this church deacon and his colt received 
from an enthusiastic and admiring assemblage is seldom witnessed. 

Mr. Hetzel sold his colt soon after to Sherifif Underbill, of Brooklyn, 
for $2,500. The writer sold his colt, the afternoon of his winning per- 
formance at a handsome price. Lady Howard passed to Governor 
Amsa Sprague, of Rhode Island. In fact, everyone of these colts by 
Hambletonian was soon sold at good prices, yet none were from trotting- 
bred mares and but one (Alexander's Abdallah) from a fast trotting 
mare. 



HORSE nREEDIXG tx ORANGE COUNTY. 755 

It is particularly interesting- to note the sunnnary of the trotting 
stallions, as American Star and Harry Clay produced the dams of the 
record breakers of later years. 

As illustrative of Hambletonian"s great worth (earning capacity), 
the writer will mention an over-night visit at Mr. Rysdyk's home as 
early as 1865, t'^^ latter part of June. The next morning- Mr. Rysdyk 
drove home behind Lady AlcClellan to a farm that he had recently pur- 
chased for the overflow of stock from his home farm. The new purchase 
was made from an up-to-date painstaking man, and good buildings and 
fencings, also fertile fields were in evidence; brood mares and foals 
and young stock were distributed about in the pastures. Mr. Rysdyk's 
son. William, had already commenced the hay making of the season's crop. 
Starting on the drive homeward Mr. Rysdyk inquired, "How do you 
like the Seely farm, my new purchase?" The writer could only reply 
in laudatory terms. ""Well," said Mr. Rysdyk, "That farm cost me nearly 
twenty-two thousand dollars and Hambletonian earned the purchase 
price in three months." The record on file in the county clerk's office 
in Goshen, gives the seller as Charles B. Seely to Wm. M. Rysdyk. The 
deed calls for 218 98/100 acres, consideration $21,048, dated April i, 
1865. Xo world's records had been won by the get of Hambletonian 
at this time. 

George Wilkes, under the name of Robert Eillingham, started in his 
first race on Long Island, August i, 1861. He made a record of 2.22 
at Providence in a race that he won October 18, 1868, making him the 
champion trotting stallion of the world. Jay Gould reduced this world's 
champion stallion record at Buflfalo August 7, 1872, to 2.21, K>. De.xter 
began trotting IMay 4, 1864 and at Buflfalo, N. Y., on August 14, 1867, 
became the world's champion by trotting to a record of 2.1714. George 
Wilkes, Jay Gould and Dexter were sons of Hambletonian, the last two 
from (laughters of American Star. 

Added to the marvelous performances of Hambletonian's immediate 
progeny, those of his sons began to come forward. The daughter of 
Edsall's Hambletonian (Alexander's Abdallah) Goldsmith Maid, began 
trotting September 7, 1865, at Goshen, N. Y.. and at Mystic Park, Bos- 
ton, September 2, 1874, reduced the world's record to 2.14. 

St. Julian by \'olunteer made a world's record of 2.11% at Hartford, 
Cimn. 



756 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

These performers attracted great attention and made a demand for the 
products of the breeding farms at remunerative prices, stock being pur- 
chased and taken to almost every section of the United States. 

Therow Felter was keeping a summer resort at Greenwood Lake and 
bred a brown mare to Hambletonian April 22, 1855, the product being 
George Wilkes, who after his career on the turf, was placed in the stud 
in Kentucky. 

Charles Backman established a breeding farm at Stony Ford about 
1865. At this time the blood of American Star and Cassius M. Clay, Jr., 
particularly that of his son, Harry Clay, was very popular and Mr. Back- 
man stocked his farm with many mares by these great sires. He sold to 
the Hon. Chas. Stanford, of California, Electioneer, a son of Hambleton- 
ian, whose dam was Green Mountain Maid, by Harry Clay ; also a small 
band of brood mares. George Wilkes and Electioneer became great 
sires and in considering the relative merits of the two families, it is a 
debatable question which should be placed first. Mr. Backman's farm, 
Stony Ford, in the matter of brood acres and splendid equipment was 
unrivaled. The farm turned out race winning and record-breaking 
youngsters, splendid roadsters, horses celebrated as sires, also brood mares 
of a high order. Many of the first men of the country, including 
General U. S. Grant, enjoyed Mr. Backman's hospitality. Stony Ford 
Stock Farm passed to the ownership of Mr. J. Howard Ford, who, with 
Austral (winner of the blue ribbon in Madison Square Garden), a pro- 
genitor of beauty and extreme speed at the head of a band of choice 
brood mares, is breeding colts of rare quality. 

Samuel Hill, in this locality, followed by his son, Ed. Hill, bred horses 
in fashionable lines of blood. Jonas Hawkins began breeding to Hamble- 
tonian when he bred the McKinstry mare May 16, 1853, producing Shark, 
record 2.305^, to saddle 2.27^, a winner at one, two and three miles on 
Long Island tracks. The McKinstry mare produced by American Star, 
Clara, and on May 8, 1857, Mr. Hawkins bred Clara to Hambletonian, 
producing the renowned Dexter, record 2.1734- The breeding was con- 
tinued by Mr. Hawkins's son, Jonathan, who bred Dictator, a wonderful 
sire and several sisters, also Kearsarge by Volunteer. This family is 
truly great judged by the recognized test of greatness, extreme speed and 
race winning qualities. 

Alden Goldsmith's Walnut Grove Farm near Washingtonville, became 



HORSE BREEDING IN ORANGE COUNTY 



/^/ 



famous as the home of X'olunteer, a horse that attained great prominence 
in tlie stud. Mr. Goldsmith, with his sons, James and John, showed 
rare judgment and skill in the selection and development of great turf 
performers and as professional drivers the sons were at the very top. 
During the many years that Alden Goldsmith campaigned a stable of 
trotters on the Grand Circuit, his horses were the grandest in existence 
and his success was brilliant. In this vicinity were the Brooks, the 
Moffatts, the Hulses, the Hallocks, the Thompsons, who bred fine horses 
and profited thereby. 

The Mills family of Bullvillc had been patrons of American Star and 
when the superiority of the Hambletonian American Star cross was made 
evident by the performances of Dexter, they were enabled to breed in this 
fashionable line. Harrison Mills, from Hambletonian and his American 
Star mare. Emma Mills, produced Independent and Sweepstakes. The 
former a fine animal that sired speed. The latter a beautifully shaded 
bay, individually most perfect in action, really a grand horse. Sweep- 
stakes, considering his opportunities was an excellent sire. James M. 
Mills bred Chosroes, Imperial and Fisk's Hambletonian, all by Hamble- 
tonian. the latter from Lady Irwin by American Star. Fisk's Hamble- 
tonian became quite noted as a sire in Michigan. 

At Middletown, John E. Wood bred many fine horses, the most prom- 
inent being Knickerbocker, son of Hambletonian, and Lady Patchen by 
George M. Patchen. J. D. Willis, with Harry Clay, 2.29, at the height 
of his stud career, other fine stallions, and a band of choice brood mares, 
bred, developed and trained youngsters evidently wMth pleasure and satis- 
faction. 

At Florida, Jeflferson Post bred Middletown by Hambletonian from a 
mare whose sire. \'ivian Grey, was a grandson of the great American 
Eclipse. Nearby, Joseph Hetzel bred the great Volunteer and his two 
full brothers. Nathaniel Roe. also of Florida, bred Florida, son of Ham- 
bletonian and a daughter of Volunteer, a most excellent sire. Mr. Roe 
purchased in Kentucky colts, at least three, by famous sons of George 
Wilkes, and kept them for service at his farm. William Roe, a son, in- 
herited his father's estate and is following the paternal footsteps in horse- 
breeding. 

About Warwick were the Wellings, the Sanfords, the Wismers. anrl just 
over the coiuitv line in New Tcrscv were the DeKnvs and Givcn^. .Ml 



758 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

breeders of fine horses. At Bellvale was W. H, Wismer, breeder of 
Woful. 

The Sayer familes at Westtown, bred fine horses, Decater Sayer's farm 
being the center of attraction when that grand individual and phenom- 
enally gaited horse Harry Clay was broken to harness at four years of 
age and was owned and kept for public service till sold, to Harry Dater 
and removed to Long Island, May 8, 1862. 

At Monroe works, Mr. Peter Townsend, who with his brothers owned 
the vast Sterling tract with its two blast furnaces (where the great chain 
that spanned the Hudson River, during the war of the Revolution, was 
made at his grandfather's Sterling Iron Works), had near his house a 
farm, "The Old Fields," which was mainly used to breed horses for the 
pleasure and use of his family. He first had a daughter of American 
Eclipse, a daughter of Young Engineer (sire of the dam of Gideon). 
From the latter he bred a pair by Abdallah, also a pair by Hambletonian. 
Mr. Townsend purchased of Lieutenant General Manry (while Professor 
of Tactics at West Point), Saline, a thoroughbred mare brought from the 
latter's home in Virginia, that, bred to Hambletonian, produced Jas. H. 
Coleman, quite a trotter for his day ; and Lord Sterling, that had the 
thoroughbred finish yet beautiful trotting action ; also Young Selene by 
Guy Miller, that by Iron Duke produced Monroe, 2.27V2. A sister, Miss 
Monroe, was the dam of Fergus McGregor. Young Selene produced by 
Volunteer, St. Patrick, 2.14^. 

In the early morning shadows of Skenemonk Mountains is "Glen Lea," 
the charming home of Mr. William Crawford. Here may be found Alto 
McKinney, by that great sire of race horses of extreme speed, McKinney, 
2. 1 1 34 » dam Cresida, 2.18^ at three years, by Palo Alto, 2.08^, champion 
trotting stallion of 1901. 

At Turner. Thos. Lewis bred Dandy, a daughter of Young Engineer, 
to Hambletonian, producing Gideon, that sired the dam of the great per- 
former Nelson, also from Dandy and Iron Duke, Silver Duke, 2.28^4- 

The late Mr. Pierre Lorillard (the only American who has attained the 
distinction of winning the classic event of the world, the English Derby, 
with a horse of his own breeding), was a patron of Hambletonian — the 
youngsters being raised on one of his Tuxedo farms. R. F. Galloway 
near Turner was a breeder to Abdallah and Hambletonian. Guy Wilkes 
cost him $500 at three years, at seven years he dealt this horse ro E. W. 



HORSE BREEDING IX ORAXGE COUNTY. 759 

Teakle, receiving the famous Princess, 2.30 and $3,500. Princess had 
been bred to Hanibletonian and the next spring (1863J. gave birth to 
Happy Medium, 2.32^, that in February of 1871, was sold to Robert 
Steel of Philadelphia, Pa., for $25,000. 

Near Newburgh, Mr. Jas. Hasbrook bred liorscs, and on his half-mile 
track, judge Fullerton, ^Mountain Boy, Music and others received their 
harness education and acquired great speed. Mr. Aymar Van Buren, al- 
ways a horse lover, procured from Wm. M. Rysdyk, Molly, daughter of 
Long Island Black Hawk and Betsy by Imp. Bellfounder, from Hamble- 
tonian and Molly, Mr. Van Buren bred Efifie Deans, 2.253/2 and Lottie, 
2.28. placing Molly in the great brood mare list. This was in the seventies 
and Mr. Van Buren is still breeding and finding pleasure with his horses. 
Mr. J. A. P. Ramsdell is breeding The Arab, that retains the beautiful 
type, great courage and endurance of his desert ancestry. 

At Goshen in the early days of trotting horses were J. S. Edsall, owner 
of the famous Alexander's Abdallah, also breeder of Flectwing (dam of 
Stamboul. 2.073^). John Minchen, later owned a stock farm at Stony 
I'ord with Young Woeful and Tom Mare for stud service. This John 
Minchen farm was later purchased by General Benjamin F. Tracy and 
called Marshland stud. It was stocked with trotters impotent blood : Ad- 
vertiser, 2.15. sire of the world's fastest yearling trotter, Adbell, 2.2^ and 
ethers ; Lord of the Manor, by IVIambrino King "handsomest horse in the 
world." and Kiosk, a son of Kremlin, chamjjion trotting stallion of 1892. 
The brood mares were choice and it was a great loss to Orange County 
when General Tracy discontinued breeding at this farm. 

Mr. Geo. S. Wisner bred Samson and other most excellent horses at his 
farm. Edmund Seely owned American .Star, a horse that by his unique, 
dljcn, stride, great courage, quality of endurance that served him through 
great hardship to the end of his days, without blemish, made the breeding 
on qualities of his progeny a wonderful contribution to our American 
trotters. 

Parkway Farm, made one of the real beauty spots of Goshen by the late 
owner. Senator McCarty. takes the highest rank as a breeding establish- 
ment, with the great Joe Patchen (the iron horse), sire of the wonderful 
horse. Dan Patch and other performers. The form of Joe Patchen is 
such that his services are sought from every section in this countrv. 

When Mr. P.. TT. Harriman paid $41,000 for .Stambrnd to place at the 



76o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 



head of his Arden Farms Breeding establishment at Goshen, he became < 

the owner of a champion, whether on the turf or in the show ring. When I 
Elsie S. by Stamboul (bred by Mr. Harriman) defeated Mr. Marcus 

Daly's Limerick in the $5,000 match race at Goshen, 1898, the joy of | 

Orange County breeders was complete. \ 

Mr. Harriman's patronage has had a wonderful influence in uplifting 

and popularizing the sport of competition of the light harness horse in ! 

Orange County. j 



DAIRYING. 761 

CHAPTER XL. 
DAIRYING 

FOR some seventy-five years past the most important crops produced 
on the Orange County farm has been, and is to-day, milk. This 
alone exceeds the combined value of all else the farmer produces. 
All other crops are gathered once a year only, but a new crop of milk is 
in evidence every day, Sundays and holidays included. Under existing 
conditions the producer has no difficulty in disposing of all he can make 
at a market so close at hand that it can be delivered within an hour from 
the time it is drawn from the cow. Thus it is a continual source of ready 
and regular revenue. 

Prior to 1842 the total, and for many years later a large majority, of 
the output was turned into butter right at the farmer's home. As a rule 
the farmer's wife personally attended to churning, working and packing 
the butter into the tub, all ready to be sent to market. 

Orange County butter was a trademark that achieved a wide reputa- 
tion as denoting an article of superior qualit}-, and the yellow bills issued 
by the Bank of Orange County were known far and wide as "butter 
money." 

But the Orange County farmer no longer makes such disposition of 
his milk. To both himself and his wife, butter-making is a lost art. 
Resides he is no longer a farmer but a "dairyman"' or "milk producer," 
for his principal business is to supply the market with milk, ^^'hat 
farming he does is merely a side issue. 

The beginning of these changed conditions dates back to 1842. when 
the Erie railroad, then hardly out of its swaddling clothes, carried to New 
York the first consignment of milk that ever reached that city by way of 
a transportation line. 

In 1842 the city of New York contained, approximately, a population 
of 315,000 and used a1x)ut 30,000 gallons (3,000 cans, forty quarts each), 
of milk daily. A large proportion of this was produced within the city 
limits, very much T probably a large majority) of which was the output 
of cows kept in stables connected with and fed on the refuse of distil- 



^62 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

leries and breweries. Very aptly this was termed "swill milk," for it was 
all that the name implies. The balance was brought in by wagons from 
the surrounding farms. 

Early in the summer of 1842 Philo Gregorv', a milk producer at Chester, 
N. Y., was induced to try the experiment of shipping milk to the New 
York market. At this time the road was in operation as far west as 
Goshen, with its eastern rail terminus at Piermont, on the Hudson River, 
twenty-four miles from New York and forty-one miles from Chester. At 
this point all passengers and freight were transferred and reached the 
city by boat. There were many doubting Thomases who contended that 
it was impossible to carry milk this distance and deliver it in good condi- 
tion. But the experiment was a success from the start, so much so that 
there was a continual call for more dairies and a gradual increase in the 
number of shippers. Orange County milk soon gained as favorable a 
reputation in the New York market as Orange County butter had pre- 
viously achieved. More or less sour milk was in evidence from time to 
time, enough at least to give excuse for the aforementioned doubters to 
exclaim: "I told you so." Comparatively little trouble arose from this 
source, however, as nearly all shipments were in merchantable condition 
when received. If otherwise this was not due to the distance hauled, but 
the lack of proper care. 

In the first few shipments wooden churns were used, these being the 
most convenient vessels at hand. But tin cans soon came into use. These 
were of five sizes, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty and sixty quarts each. Al- 
though milk was shipped twice a day, morning and evening, it was not 
considered safe to send what was left over from any one milking. For 
this reason every shipper provided himself with all these sizes as a means 
of cleaning out as closely as possible. At this time an ice house was an 
institution unknown to the farm. To the milk producer of to-day an 
ice house is regarded as almost as much of a necessity as the milk can or 
the cow. But in 1842 and for some years later, natural facilities for keep- 
ing milk from day to day could be found on nearly every farm. Flowing 
springs, the temperature of which never rose above about fifty degrees, 
were then plentiful in Orange County, much more common than now. It 
was some time after Mr. Gregory made his first shipment that farmers 
learned to use these springs, and discontinue the morning shipment. It 
was later still when the majority ceased yarding their cows earlv in the 



DAIRYING. 763 

afternoon and shipping this niilkinj^- the same evening. Since these early 
days niucii has been learned about how to keep milk in good condition 
foi a long time. l>ut even now the great possibilities in this direction are 
not suspected by the average producer. 

In 1843 the road was operated as far west as Middletown, in 1846 to 
Otisville, and in 1848 to Port Jervis. The only portion of the territory 
thus traversed that was well adapted to the production of milk lay be- 
tween Otisville and Greenwood (now Arden) a distance of thirty-one 
miles. The total amount of milk shipped ni 1842 averaged about forty- 
five; in 1843, 275 cans, and in 1844 some 420 cans daily. 

The first regular milk train was run on the 3d day of May, 1847. It 
ran morning and evening, leaving Otisville at 6.30 .\. m. and 4.15 v. m., 
scheduled to reach New York at 11.30 a. m. and 9.15 p. m. Otisville con- 
tinued to be the western terminus for the run of the milk train until 1868, 
when it was extended to Port Jervis. Not until 1884 was any attempt 
made to develop any of the extensive and excellent milk territor}- lying 
west of Port Jervis. All efforts in the direction of securing increased 
supplies were centered on .the eastern (now New York) division. Here, 
by its branches and connecting lines, it made practically every can of milk 
produced in Orange County available to the New York market. Prior to 
twenty-tive years ago nearly every producer shipped his milk direct to 
the dealer. While these conditions prevailed the milk manifest at any 
station where a large amount of inilk was loaded contained so many names 
of sliippers and consignees that it resembled the poll list of an election 
district. At these same stations now, although loading more milk than 
formerly, it is unusual to find more than two or three shippers. \\'hile the 
list of consignees has not decreased to the same extent, still it is verv 
short as compared with the former period. The one time shippers are 
now oatrons of the local creamery, from one to three of which may be 
found at every station. 

The first butter and cheese factory, or creamery, started in the State 
of New York was located near what is now the Crystal Run Station of 
the Ontario and Western Railway. This was about 185C. It was co- 
operative, owned and operated by the farmers of the neighborhood. The 
object was to lessen the labor at the household and also make a more 
uniform quality of butter than was possible when churned at each indi- 
vidual home. The cream was made into butter, the skimmed milk into 



764 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cheei^e and the whey mixed with grain turned into pork. Thus nothing 
was wasted and the venture proved successful. Other similar factories 
were started in different sections and inside of ten years Orange County 
was dotted over with such establishments. 

Generally they were operated as co-operative concerns, and quite as 
generally, due to lack of proper management, were unsuccessful. As a 
consquence they were either abandoned or passed into the possession of 
private paities and were no longer used exclusively for manufacturing. 
More money could be realized by shipping milk. Only such as could not 
be disposed of in this way was turned into butter and cheese. 

This Crystal Run factory was the progenitor of the present day ship- 
ping stations from which the New York market now receives approxi- 
mately ninety-eight per cent, of its milk supply and practically all its 
cream. 

Prior to the foundation of the New York milk exchange, in October, 
1887, the price paid for milk delivered at these factories, or shipping 
stations, was determined by the highest market price of butter. Stock- 
holders m the co-operative factory were paid whatever might be earned, 
but when milk was purchased outright the producer received the price of 
one pound of butter for every twelve (or I2y2 as might be agreed) quarts 
of milk delivered. 

When the milk exchange began to announce prices (which prevail 
until otherwise announced) the stations accepted these as a basis and 
bought at a discount that ranged from ten to twenty cents per can of 
forty quarts. Later these discounts were lowered from time to time and 
now range from ten cents to nothing. 

Nearly all of thes;e stations are now operated by dealers who use them 
as a source of supply for their city trade, the balance conducted by parties 
who have no interest in the city business, but supply such dealers as do 
not care to operate a place in the country. 

In the county of Orange are (including its three condenseries) seventy 
milk shipping stations, every township being represented by from one to 
twelve. Mount Hope has the one, Warwick the twelve. 

In addition are two cheese and one butter and cheese factory, the latter 
the celebrated Neufchatel cheese factory of William E. Lawrence & Son, 
at Chester. In 1906 this establishment turned out y,ooo pounds of butter, 
600.000 pounds of Neufchatel and 273,000 pounds of square cream cheese. 



DAIRYING. 765 

From January ist to December 31st, U)oy, the daily average outj)ut of 
milk in the county approximated 0,400 cans of forty quarts each. This 
was disposed of about as follows : 

Shipped to the New York market 6,000 cans, 40 quarts each. 

Consumed in the county 1,850 " 

Condensed 750 

Turned into butter and cheese 400 ' 

Skimmed or cream 400 

Daily average production 9,400 cans, 40 quarts each. 

For milk shipped from 1842 to 1854 or 1855 producers received the 
following prices : 

Months. Cents per Quart. 

May, June, July and August 2 

March, April, September and October 3 

November, December, January and February 4 

Yearly average ^ 

In i8j4 or 1855 ^^^^ Milk Dealers' Union was organized for the avowed 
purpose of determining future prices. This body proposed to (and did) 
meet on the tenth day of every month and '"make a price" for the preced- 
ing month. Thus, the producer did not know how much he would re- 
ceive for his milk until ten days after it had been shipped, distributed and 
consumed. 

This was so palpably unjust and one-sided that producers were indig- 
nant and since then have formed many counter organizations and com- 
binations for the purpose of taking the price-making power out of the 
hands of dealers. All these were failures. 

The present system of fixing prices, in vogue since 1882, is more equit- 
able. It is the producer's own fault that it is not the best that could be 
devised. The Consolidated Milk Exchange, an incorporated stock com- 
pany, announces prices in advance of delivery. This is merely an offer to 
pay a specified price until otherwise announced. This constitutes a legal 
price, inasmuch as no one is under any obligation to deliver any milk, 
provided the offer is not satisfactory. 

With one added feature it would be a perfect way of satisfactorily 
settling the matter of price, a problcmi that has for fifty years puzzled the 



766 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

brains of the wisest milk producers in Orange County. That this feature 
is lacking, milk producers alone are responsible. 

When the milk exchange was incorporated and before organization was 
completed, producers were invited, urged and pleaded with, both by deal- 
ers and the more progressive, level-headed producers, to subscribe for half 
of the capital stock and thus be entitled to equal representation on the price 
committee. But this they refused. Had the offer been accepted pro- 
ducers would have a voice in deciding prices, a conceded right which for 
fifty years they have been striving to secure but voluntarily surrendered, 
when once within their grasp. 

Of all the movements for gaining control of prices, the action of March, 
1883, was the most notable. Very few members of the numerous associa- 
tions organized for this purpose were willing to admit that supply and 
demand had, or should have, any influence in determining the market 
price of milk. Nevertheless, the keystone of every eft"ort to advance prices 
was by curtailing the supply. This was to be accomplished by persuading 
producers to withdraw part or all of their shipments until dealers were 
brought to terms. 

But it was difficult to find anybody willing to keep his milk home and 
thereby realize two cents a quart, while his neighbors continued to ship 
and were paid three cents. For this reason every scheme of this kind 
was doomed to failure. 

Early in March, 1883, the managers of the Milk Producers' Associa- 
tion of Orange County, reinforced by their brethren of Sussex County, 
N. J., notified the dealers that the market price of milk for that month 
would be three and one-half cents a quart. This brought about a confer- 
ence of the opposing forces. Dealers offered three cents for the first and 
three and one-half cents for the last half of the month. Neither party 
would recede from its position and both resolved to fight it out on these 
lines. 

Producers proposed to withhold all shipments, commencing about the 
15th, until dealers were starved into submission. Experience had shown 
that something more powerful than moral suasion would be required to in- 
duce producers to discontinue shipping. 

Hence the leaders in this movement determined to use force where per- 
suasion failed. For this purpose a ''spilling committee" was appointed 
for each station and instructed to be where it could do the most efood 



DAIRYING. 767 

about the time a milk train was due. The orders were not to allow a can 
of miik to pass into the possession of the railway company. This was to 
be done peaccabl), if possible — forcibly, if necessary. 

Pursuant to these instructions, would-be shippers were halted on the 
liighway and ordered to take their milk back home. Some protestetl 
mildly, but tinally obeyed orders. Some objected strongly and their milk 
was poured into the street. 

But there were still others who were determined to ship or fight. They 
gave the "spillers" to understand that they would not tamely submit to 
highwax robbery, tiiat thc_\ intended to ship their milk, and that an imder- 
taker would be needed to care for an\ one who attempted to prevent it. 

Many drove to cross-roads between stations where by previous ar- 
rangement the train would stop and k)ad the milk. It was useless to ap- 
peal to local authorities for protection from the ■'s{)illers," as thev were 
either afraid or too indilterent to take action. 

It was reported that the Governor had been apj^ealed to. and was about 
to issue orders to the sheriff of r)ranye County to quell the rebellion, but 
the blockade was voluntaril\- raised after a three-days' struggle. 

Shipments of dairy milk in Orange and Sussex Cotmties fell off about 
twenty per cent., but creameries shipped more than usual, presumably 
enor.gh to reduce the net falling oft to about fifteen per cent. Fortunatelv 
no blooci was shed in this war. but much milk fell by the wayside. It was 
not a victory for producers, as bills were settled on the terms originally 
offered by dealers, three cents for the first and three and one-half cents 
for the last half of March. 



PART II. 
BIOGRAPHICAL 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 771 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



LEWIS D. ADAMS was born at Sussex, New Jersey, June 15, 1839. Mr. 
Adams's early education was limited, but he attended the district school at Florida, 
and Middletown, N. Y., for a short period. He worked on the farm for his 
father until he was eighteen years old. He then took up the tinner's trade and 
worked at that business until 1862, when he enlisted in the 124th Regiment, Co. F, 
New York Volunteer Infantry, and served as one of the color guards six months 
and as left general guide two and one-half years. When the war was over he 
resumed his business at Warwick. Six years later he came to Florida, this county, 
and purchased the hardware store which he continued to operate until he retired 
in 1898. Mr. Adams married Miss Marietta Ackerman, of Warwick, September 
28, 1870. In politics he is a republican, and served the town as collector one year. 
Mr. .\dams wife died December 24, 1900. Our subject is an honorary member of 
Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. & A. M. ; Cummings Post, G. A. R., and is an hon- 
orary member of Highland Fire and Hose Company, which he organized in 
the '70s. 

THOMAS J. ADERTON, merchant, postmaster, and farmer at Savilton, in 
the town of Newburgh, was born at the homestead in 1847. His grandfather, 
Thomas Aderton, a seafaring man, settled here from New York City in 1828. 
Our subject is a son of Captain John L. and Isabella (Swain) Aderton, who en- 
gaged in farming here, after following the sea ten years. Thomas J. was edu- 
cated at the district schools and Monticello Academy. In 1891 he purchased his 
store and was appointed postmaster. Mr. Aderton has served as town clerk nine 
years, and excise commissioner twelve years. He married Mary Lockwood and 
two ciiildren have been born to them. One son, A. L. Aderton, is general delivery 
clerk in tiie Newburgh post-office. 

JOSEPH H. ADOLPH, who has been engaged in the meat business at High- 
land Falls since 1886, is numbered among the representative and progressive 
citizens of that village, where he was born in 1857. His opportunities for school- 
ing were limited, and at the age of eleven years he entered the employ of a 
grocer, with whom he remained ten years. He then Spent two years in Milwau- 
kee and six years in Connecticut, when he returned to his native village and en- 
gaged in business for himself, in wiiich he has been unusually successful. Socially 



7^2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. Adolph is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Holy Name Society. 
In 1885 he married Miss Mary Campion, of Hartford, Conn. They have three 
children, two sons and one daughter. 

GEO. B. ALEXANDER is the son of Harvey and Amanda (Kernaghan) Alex- 
ander, and was born in the village of Cornwall, Orange County, N. Y., November 
5, 1843. His parents removed to Little Britain in the spring of 1844. At an early 
age he learned the carpenter's trade, with his father, living at home until the fall 
of 1886, when he went to California, where he was employed on the Raymond 
Hotel, which was then in course of erection at Pasadena. On his return home 
he took up his trade and again visited California in 1891. On his return home he 
was appointed under sheriff of Orange County, having charge of the Newburgh 
Court House. His brother, Joseph K. Alexander was sheriff at that time. In 
1895 he married Elvira S. Scott, daughter of William J. and Maria (Newkirk) 
Scott, and niece of David A. Scoitt. Their son, Harvey, now ten years old, re- 
sides at home. Mr. Alexander is a member of Hudson River Lodge No. 607, 
F. and A. M., of Newburgh, N. Y. In the spring of 1895 he moved to Campbell 
Hall, where he is associated with his brother, Joseph K. Alexander, in a general 
store. He was supervisor of the town of Hamptonbnrgh for two terms, having 
previously served three terms as town clerk. He is postmaster of Campbell Hall, 
which office he has held for ten years. 

SAMUEL ANDREWS, who has been general superintendent of the Walden 
Knife Works for twenty-five years and secretary of the company since 1904, was 
born in England in 1858, a son of William and Sarah (Harrison) Andrews. He 
came to America with his parents in infancy and in 1872 entered the employ of 
the Walden Knife Company to learn the cutlery trade. In 1881 he became a direc- 
tor of the company and has been closely identified with the growth and progress of 
that important industry. Mr. Andrews is a director of the Wallkill Valley Cemetery 
Association and a member of the Order of Foresters. He has been twice mar- 
ried; his first wife was Miss Clara Ashbury. Two daughters, Ethel and Alice, 
were born to them. For his second wife Mr. Andrews chose Miss Alfa Mussey. 

WALTER CASE ANTHONY, attorney, of Newburgh, was born in Fishkill, 
N Y., August 24, 1842. A son of Theodore Van Wyck and Mary H. (Case) An- 
thony. He was educated at Fishkill Academy and Union College, where he gradu- 
ated with the degree of A.B. in 1864. He read law at Goshen, N. Y., in the office 
of David F. Gedney, and later with Stephen W. Fullerton, and was admitted to 
the bar in 1865. 

Mr. Anthony was elected district attorney in 1877, and re-elected in 1880. In 
1898 he was appointed referee in bankruptcy for Orange County. Mr. Anthony 
is a director and counsel of the Columbus Trust Co. of Newburgh. He is vice- 
president of the Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the Highlands. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. yj^^ 

CHARLES W. ARKILLS was born in Fallsburgh, Sullivan County, October 
4, 1867. He was educated in the District School and Liberty Academy. At an 
early age he learned the trade of decorator and painter, and became so proficient 
that he was foreman for the Ontario & Western Railroad in Ncwburgh three 
years, and afterward assistant foreman in the Kilmes Wire Works at Newburgh. 
He is a democrat, and has several times been chosen a delegate to democratic 
county conventions. He married Julietta Rose, of Grahamsville, Sullivan County, 
June JO, 1888, and their children are Laura, Lelia, Sadie L., Viola K., and Jolm 
L C. He is a member of the Reformed Dutch Church at Grahamsville, and was 
superintendent of its Sunday-school for four years. His home is now on a farm 
near Campbell Hall, with his father. The latter, Darwin Arkills, was born i'n 
Scotchtown, Orange County, and married Minerva Gray, of Thompsonville. Their 
children's names are Laura N., Fred J., and Charles W. 

S.\MUEL ARMSTRONG was born at Thompson's Ridge, Orange County, 
\. v.. May 14, 1878. After his district schooling at Thompson's Ridge and Pine 
Bush he attended the preparatory school of the Misses Porter at Middletown and 
the Albany College of Pharmacy, from which he graduated in 1902. He removed 
to Warwick and clerked for S. S. Van Saun, after which he purchased the War- 
wick Drug Store, which he now owns. He has been deputy town clerk about 
three years, and is a member of the following societies : Warwick Lodge No. 544. 
F. & A. AL ; Highland Chapter No. 240, R. A. M., and Cypress Comniandery No. 
67 of Middletown. He married Emma Faith McNeal, of Montgomery, Orange 
County His father and mother were natives of the town of Crawford, Orange 
County, N. Y. His mother's maiden name was Elizabeth J. Shafer. The father 
was a practical farmer, fond of his home, and devoted to tlie interests of his 
church and the republican party. 

DR. MAURICE CAVILEER ASHLEY, the present superintendent of the Mid 
dletown State Homeopathic Hospital, has occupied that position since July, 1902, 
succeeding Dr. Selden H. Talcott, who died June 15, 1902. 

Dr. Ashley was born in Port Republic, New Jersey, July 3, 1863. He received 
his education in the public schools of that town, and in 1884 began his work with 
the insane, by taking a position as attendant in the asylum in Trenton, N. J., where 
he remained for two years, then came to Middletown State Homeopathic Hospital 
in the same capacity. In a year's time he was appointed as assistant supervisor in 
the Middletown State Homeopathic Hospital, and later was promoted to the po- 
sition of pharmacist. 

In 1889 he entered the Hahnemann Medical College of Philadelphia, and gradu- 
ated in .April, 1892. In .-Xugust, 1892. he was appointed junior assistant physician 
in the Middletown State Homeopathic Hospital. 

His course has steadily advanced since that time : Third assistant physician, 
189?: second assistant physician. May, 1898: first assistant physician, .A.pril, 1900; 



774 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

acting superintendent, June 15, 1902, and superintendent since July, 1902, when he 
received the appointment to the position left vacant by his predecessor's death. 

Dr. Ashley was married August 30, 1888, to Miss Harriet Meade, of Johnson, 
Orange County, N. Y. He has two daughters in their early 'teens. 

Dr. Ashley was a member of the National Guard, serving in the medical depart- 
ment for nearly twenty years. He resigned his position as captain and assistant 
surgeon of the ist New York Regiment in 1907, receiving full and honorable dis- 
charge. 

In May, 1898, Dr. Ashley, then second assistant physician in the Middletown 
State Homeopathic Hospital, was granted a leave of absence by the Civil Service 
Commission' and Superintendent Talcott, and was commissioned by Governor 
Frank S. Black as captain and assistant surgeon of the ist New York Volunteer 
Infantry, and accompanied the regiment to Hawaii. 

He is a member of the American Institute of Homeopathy, of the American 
Medico-Psychological Association, and the New York Psychiatric Society, of the 
Hoffman Lodge No. 412, Midland Chapter No. 240, Cyprus Commandery No. 67, 
and Mecca Temple, New York City, the University Club of Middletown, and vari- 
ous other medical and social organizations. He has contributed many medical 
papers from time to time to the various medical publications. 

CHARLES P. AU, son of the late Charles and Ellen (McGrisken) Au, was 
born in 1877 on the farm of J. Pierpont Morgan in the town of Highland, where 
his father was engaged as a carpenter. After finishing his schooling he learned 
the barber's trade, in which business he has met with n'uch success. In 1898 he 
received the appointment as barber in the United States Cadet Barracks at West 
Point and has retained the position continuously to the present time. He also 
conducted a shop at Highland Falls for a period of five years. Mr. Au is active 
in the support of the repu'olican party. In 1906 he was nominated for supervisor 
and' in an unusual election was defeated by the close margin of twenty-four votes. 
Mr. Au is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the A. O. H. He married 
Miss Katherine Powers and they are the parents of two boys and one girl. 

CLARENCE AYRES was born in the town and village of Mount Hope, No- 
vember 2^, 1875, and was educated in the district school and public school of Middle- 
town, where his parents moved when he was nine years old. He learned the printer's 
trade, at which he worked three years. When he was seventeen he became line- 
man in telephone construction, and worked at it in Middletown six years and in 
Newburgh two years. In 1904 he went to Warwick, became connected with the 
Warwick Valley Telephone Company, and is now manager of general construc- 
tion in the mechanical department. He married Anna Collonton, of Goshen, and 
they have one child, Francis, born in December, 1889. Mr. Ayres is a member of 
the Congregational Church, and adheres to the democratic party. His father was 
a sailor on a whaling vessel eight years, and circumnavigated the earth four 
times. He also served as sailor during the civil war. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. -75 



FRED BAILEY, a merchant of Otisvillc, X. Y., was born June 4, 1854. His 
tarly education was acquired at Ellicottville, Cattaraugus County, X. Y., at the 
district school. He was identified with the American Express Company at Elli- 
cottville for a period of nine years. In December, 1892, he came to Orange County 
and located at Otisvillc. Removing to Xewburgh in 1894, he was engaged in the 
wholesale grocery business for one year, after which he returned to Otisvillc and 
purchased the grocery store of A. J. Craig, which he conducted eight years. He 
then conducted a store in partnership with George Smith until the fall of igo6, 
when he purchased Mr. Smith's interest in the store and real estate, and has since 
conducted it alone. 

Mr. Bailey was united in marriage, Sei)tcmber 4, 1876, to Miss Chloc Mary 
Vaughan, of Ellicottville, X. Y. One child died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey 
are members of the Otisvillc Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a republican. 
Mr. Bailey was for five years a member of the Tenth Separate Company, Xational 
Guard, State of X'ew York. 

THP2 BAIRD FAMILY. — Among the earliest settlers of the town jf Warwick 
there came Francis Baird, prior to 1766. He was of Scotch or Scotch-Irish an- 
cestry, and according to a tradition of the family he, or his father before him, 
sailed from Bally Castle, County Antrim, in the north of Ireland. This was a 
shipping port in that early date, and is just across from Scotland. A recent writer 
has said: "Francis Baird (never Bcardj may have been Irish by nativity, but not 
by ancestry. The Bairds of Avondale were an ancient and powerful Berg Scots 
clan, and as long ago as the wild days of the struggles between Robert Bruce and 
John Baliol for the Scottish crown (1309), gave brave account of themselves on 
the side of the Lord of Lome against the finally victorious Bruce. The name, 
originally (Xorman-French) Bayard, was shortened into Baird by neighbors after 
the family passed into Scotland from France at a very early date. Francis was 
an oflfshoot and clansman of this stock." 

He built the stone house on Main street in 1766. 

Mr. Baird was a man of intelligence and comparative wealth. He was ^ 
signer of the non-importation pledge of 1775, and lived and died in Warwick in 
warm esteem. 

He died in tlie latter part of 1799 or the first part of 1800, and left a will dis- 
posing of his property. His children were William Eagles, Samuel. John, Abia 
Francis, Anna and Margaret (wife of Joseph Walling). 

The last named arc the ancestors of the Walling family in this town. 

William Eagles Baird married Sarah De Kay. a daughter of Thomas De Kay, 
and from this marriage were the following : Nathaniel Wheeler, Abia Francis, 
Fanny (married Blain), Mary (or Polly, married Thomas Hathorn Burt), Jane, 
Sally (married Xathaniel Pelton). Christine (married David Barclay). 

The descendants of Xathaniel Wheeler Baird, who married Abigail Denton, re- 
side principally in this town. They are: John Baird (married Mary De Kay), 
Julia (married Thomas E. De Kay). Samuel Denton (married Sarali Parks). Mar)' 



776 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

(married Ogden Howell), Frances Amelia (married George W. Sanford, 1847), 

Sarah (married Thomas J. Taylor), William Henry (married Mary ), 

Charles Roe (married Anna M. Jayne). 

In 1819, William Eagles Baird, oldest son of Francis, built the stone house be- 
tween Warwick and New Milford, which is still in excellent preservation and is 
owned by a descendant, William Parks Baird, a son of Samuel Denton Baird, de- 
ceased, who resides there with his mother, Sarah. The other descendants of Sam- 
uel D., who were also born here, are Samuel D., Jr., Nathaniel Wheeler, Susan 
(married Pierre Demerest), Fred J. and George M. 

FRED BAKER, who since 1883 has been manager of the Newburgh branch of 
Swift & Company, is one of Orange County's popular citizens. He was born in 
Germany in 1834, and came to America in 1853. He was engaged for many years 
with his father in the conduct of a slaughter house on the Plank road, and since 
liis connection with Swift & Company has built up an extensive trade in New- 
.burgh and vicinity. Fred, his eldest son, conducts a farm at Marlboro. His son 
William conducts a meat market at 52 Water street, and another at 127 Smith 
■street, Newburgh, and John J. has a meat market on South Street. Mr. Baker is 
prominent in Masonic circles, a member of Hudson River Lodge, the Chapter, Com- 
mandery and Shrine. 

GEORGE W. BALL was born May 13, 1868, in Monroe, Orange County. He 
was educated in the public school and Chester Academy. Then he was clerk for 
David Roe at Bellvale, N. Y., and for Frank Hall, of Greenwood Lake. In 1888 he 
became station agent at Allamuchy, N. J., and Buttsville, N. J., for the Lehigh & 
Hudson Railroad, and was transferred to Greycourt, N. Y. In 1891 he became 
clerk in the Erie Railroad office at Bergen, N. J., and went from there back to 
Greycourt to be station agent for the Erie. He left the employment of this road 
July 15, 1904, and started a real estate and insurance Inisiness at Chester. He also 
started and still publishes a weekly paper, the Independent. 

Mr. Ball has been village trustee four years, justice of the peace four years, and 
village clerk two years. He has been a member of the Chester Band twenty years, 
and is at present its leader. He was chief of the Chester fire department from 
1894 to 1896. He is a charter member of the Chester K. of P. Lodge No. 363, and 
a member of the Standard Lodge No. 711, F. & A. M. His wife was Anna M. 
Smith, and a daughter of the late C. P. Smith, of Chester. Their children are Mae 
T., Susan R., Katheryn M. and Caroline P. 

PETER MOIR BARCLAY, M.D.— Of the physicians and surgeons in Orange 
County who built up an extensive practice, special mention should be made of the 
late Dr. Barclay, of Newburgh. He was a son of Dr. Alexander and Mary J. 
Fraser (Watt) Barclay, and was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, April 20, 1834. His 
parents came to America in 1835, settling in Newburgh. Here Peter M. received 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 777 

his preliminary education, graduating from the Academy in 1848. In 1850 lie be- 
gan the study of medicine under his father, and graduated from the University of 
New York in 1854. July 9> '866, Governor Fenton appointed him surgeon to the 
19th Infantry of New York, with the rank of captain. Dr. Barclay was a non- 
resident member of the Medico-Legal Society of Xew York, and was prominently 
identified with the Masonic fraternity, including the Knights Templar. 

He was united in marriage, June 19, 1872, with Miss Harriet E., daughter of 
Captain C. B. Armstrong. They had one daughter, Maude, now the wife of Mr. 
John B. Rose, a leading brick manufacturer and representative citizen of New- 
burgh. 

Of Dr. Barclay's skill in his profession it is unnecessary to speak, as his talents 
were known and appreciated for nearly half a century in this city and adjoining 
portions of the State. He was also recognized as a leading citizen, performing in a 
plain and courteous manner the various social duties that devolved upon him. His 
death occurred in Xewburgh, February 10, 1901. 

ARTHUR BARXES, senior member of the firm of Barnes & Atkins, is a son 
of Edgar C. Barnes, and was born and educated in Newburgh. They occupy one 
of the oldest business houses of its kind in the city; established in 1874 by Mat- 
thews & Barnes; succeeded in 1883 by Barnes & Mapes ; and in 1890 by E. C. 
Barnes, and again in 1898 by Barnes & Monell. The present firm purchased the 
business in 1905. They are smokers and packers of B. & M. Xewburgh meats and 
give employment to twelve men. They are extensive dealers in butter, eggs and 
cheese. 

EDGAR C. BARXES was born in Orange County, N. Y., July 16, 1834. His 
parents removed to Xew York City when he was seven years of age, and he re- 
ceived his education in the schools of that city. From 1851 to 18^4 Mr. Barnes 
was employed in the store of A. R. & O. Taylor at Pine Bush, Orange County. He 
then came to Xewburgh and entered the employ of William K. Mailler & Co. as 
shipping clerk on the barge Newburgh. He filled various positions in the office 
of the barge until 1874, becoming familiar with the produce commission business. 
In 1874 he formed a partnership with James H. Mathews under the firm name of 
Mathews & Barnes, wholesale provision and produce merchants. In 1883 Mr. Ma- 
thews retired from the firm and Mr. Albert \V. Mapes was admitted thereto, under 
the firm name of Barnes & Mapes, and so continued until December, 1890. Mr. 
Barnes continued the business alone until 1898, but removed to a substantial brick 
building he had erected at 42 South Water street, specially adapted to cold storage. 
In March of 1898 Mr. Barnes retired from active business life. He is vice-presi- 
dent of the Highland Xational Bank of Xewburgh. Mr. Barnes has not souglit 
prominence in pul^lic life, but rather has devoted himself to his business, in which 
he was eminently successful, and to the work of the church and Sunday-school with 
which he is connected. He has been twice married, his first wife being M. Theresa 
Pack, ui Xew York, who died, leaving four children, three of whom are living. 



7/8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Anna, Minnie, and Arthur, his business successor. In 1870 he married Sophie H. 
Parsons, of Newburgh, N. Y. 

GEORGE T. BARNES, son of Gordon and Esther A. (Tate) Barnes, was born 
in Montgomery, Orange County. He attended school but a short period and in 
1881 began his apprenticeship as a tinsmith and plumber, serving seven years. He 
was employed several years at Middletown by the late George A. Swalm and has 
resided in Newburgh since 1889. In 1892 he established his present business as a 
contractor for plumbing, ventilating, steam and hot water heating. Mr. Barnes has 
given a great deal of study to the most improved and economical systems of heat- 
ing and ventilating large buildings and his plans have been accepted and installed 
in many of the palatial homes in the Hudson Valley, Long Island, and Rhode 
Island. Among the important plants he has equipped may be mentioned those of 
the Light, Heat and Power Companies of Newburgh and Poughkeepsie, the Chat- 
ham, Coxsackie and Rhinebeck electrical stations, and he now has the contract for 
heating the United States Government buildings at West Point, N. Y. Mr. Barnes's 
success may be attributed to his close attention to business and fulfilling his con- 
tracts to the letter. From a humble beginning he has built up a business in the 
space of fifteen years, exceeding all others in his line in Orange County. His show 
rooms at 107 Broadway will compare favorably with any in New York State. In 
1895 he married Miss Cory, of Rhode Island, and one daughter has been born to 
them. 

J. MILTON BARNES, flour and grain merchant, of Central Valley, was bom 
in Cornwall, Orange County, in 1844, a son of Matthew and Mary (Van Duser) 
Barnes. As a young man he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until 
1876, when he located in Central Valley and engaged in the mercantile business with 
Alfred Cooper. This partnership continued eight years and was succeeded by 
Barnes & Thorn, Barnes & Duran, and J. M. Barnes & Co. Mr. Barnes was ap- 
pointed postmaster of the village in 1885 and again in 1892. Politically he has al- 
ways been a democrat. In 1884 Mr. Barnes married Miss Hannah, daughter of the 
late Hon. Morgan Shuit. 

ROBERT HIRAM BARNETT, of Newburgh, N. Y., was born in the City of 
Gloversville, Fulton County, N. Y., on June 13, 1870, being the son of Alfred A. 
and Bessie Rowell Barnett. His father was born in London, England, and came 
to this country in the early sixties. The Barnett family is descended from English 
ancestors who commanded in the battle of Barnett. Through his mother, Mr. 
Barnett is a Mayflower descendant and is connected with the Fields and Morses, 
Warren Rowell, the New York inventor, being his maternal great-uncle. Mr. 
Barnett received his education in the city of Johnstown, N. Y., and graduated 
from the Johnstown High School and the Johnstown Academy, which was founded 
by Sir William Johnson. Owing to ill-health he was unable to enter college, but 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



779 



continued his studies for tliree years under a tutor and read law witli Andrew 
J. Nellis, of Johnstown, N. Y., and acted as his managing clerk for several years 
and thereafter went to New York City and entered the New York Law School as 
a student thereof. While pursuing his course at the New York Law School he 
was connected with ex-Deputy Attorney General Colonel Dennison, of the firm of 
Dennison & Ilartridge, of New York City. Mr. Barnett graduated from the New 
York Law School in 1895, with the degree of bachelor of laws, and was admitted 
to the bar at Albany in December, 1895. 

He practiced law in the city of Johnstown for a short time and then removed to 
Mechanicsville, X. Y., where he remained for about three years, and while tliere 
was corporation counsel of the village and acted as attorney and counsel for the 
boards of health and water commissioners. From Mechanicsville Mr. Barnett re- 
moved to the city of New York and engaged in the practice of his profession, but 
owing to ill-health and inability to become acclimated to the salt air he removed 
to the city of Newburgh in 1901, where he has since continuously followed his 
profession, having largely confined his efiforts to the practice of negligence law. 

DANIEL D. BARNS, the third son of Nathaniel and Effie (Dusenbcrre) Barns, 
previously referred to, was born in Middle Hope in 1833. He now lives in retire- 
ment on his valuable fruit farm, adjoining his birthplace. In 1857 he married Miss 
Hester D., daughter of Captain L. S. Carpenter, of Marlboro. They became the 
parents of three daughters and one son, Nathaniel C, who continues the manage- 
ment of the farm cultivated so many years by his father. Mr. Daniel D. Barns al- 
ways manifested a great interest in public affairs of Orange County, and was well 
known as a breeder of fast trotting horses for which Orange County is noted. 

Nathaniel C. Barns was born in Middle Hope in 1863. Since completing his 
studies in the Newburgh schools he has been largely engaged in fruit growing with 
much success. He has served as justice of the peace, and is the present master of 
Cronomer Valley Grange No. 982. 

In 1888 he married Miss Mary E., daughter of Dr. Kidd, of Newburgh; she died 
in 1889, leaving one daughter, Natalie C. 

N.\THANIEL BARNS. — Among the representative agriculturalists and fruit 
growers of Orange County, Mr. Nathaniel Barns, of the town of Newburgh, is 
worthy of special notice. Born in Middle Hope, February 20, 1831, he has been for 
nearly half a century actively engaged in the cultivation of a large and valuable 
farm, mostly devoted to fruit. He is the second son and namesake of the late 
Nathaniel and Eflfie (Dusenberre) Barns, previously mentioned. 

Mr. Barns attended a select school at Marlboro, and subse(|ucntly taught school 
one winter. When twenty-three years of age he married Miss Martha Waring, 
and four sons and one daughter were born to them, of whom James and Charles 
are living — the former a dry goods merchant of Newburgh, and the latter in the 
produce business in New York. Mr. Barns has been actively identified with public 
aflfairs of his native town. Ho was elected assessor for a period of nine years, ex- 



ySo THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cise commissioner for two years, and from 1865 to 1870 held the office of supervisor 
and chairman of the board in 1870. Mr. Barns was the first supervisor from the 
present town of Newburgh and is the only surviving member of that honorable 
body of 1866. Mr. Barns was recognized as a leader and placed on important com- 
mittees. He is at present one of the trustees of Cedar Hill Cemetery, and member 
of Cronomer Valley Grange. 

WILLIAM D. BARNS, widely known for many years as one of the most promi- 
nent and successful agriculturists, fruit growers and horticulturists in the State 
of New York, pursued his vocation at Middle Hope, Orange County, where he was 
born October 16, 1828. He was the descendant of an old and honored New Eng- 
land family. His father, Nathaniel Barns, was born in Litchfield, Conn., in 1782, 
and settled in Middle Hope shortly after his marriage to Miss Effie Dusenberre in 
1828. Four children were born to them, namely, William D., Nathaniel, Daniel D., 
and Mary E. 

Nathaniel Barns became a prosperous farmer, and at the time of his death in 1879 
was the owner of 300 acres of the choicest farm land in Orange County. These 
farms became the property of the sons above mentioned. William D. continued the 
homestead farm, and for thirty-five years previous to his death devoted his atten- 
tion largely to the cultivation of fruit. He was vice-president of the Orange County 
Agricultural Society from 1888 to 1897, and superintendent of the fruit department 
at the annual fairs of this organization. He was a member and exhibitor at the 
Newburgh Bay Horticultural Society. He was connected with the Eastern New 
York Horticultural Society since its organization, and a member of the Western 
New York Horticultural Society. In 1893 he was appointed by Governor Flower 
a member of the board of control of the New York State Experiment Station at 
Geneva. He was also appointed by Governor Odell a State delegate to the National 
Farmers' Congress at Sioux Falls, S. D., in 1901. As a citizen of the town of New- 
burgh, he was the incumbent of many offices of trust and honor. As almshouse 
commissioner he was prominent in securing many improvements on the farm at- 
tached to that institution. He was largely instrumental in the establishment of the 
Children's Home, and the plans for its management have been conducted substan- 
tially as he advocated. Mr. Barnes's death occurred in October, 1904. In i860 he 
married Miss Elizabeth A. Carpenter, and five children were born, of whom four 
are living, Edwin W., Mary, George D., John S., and Nathaniel H. (deceased). 

The homestead farm is now conducted under the management and firm name of 
Edwin W. Barns & Son. Over seventy acres are devoted to the culture of fruit, 
and all specimens adapted to this section, from the earliest strawberry to the latest 
apples, are here grown. 

CHARLES W. BARTRUM, general superintendent of the Newburgh plant of 
Sweet, Orr & Co., was born in Dutchess County, N. Y., and educated at the Rhine- 
beck Academy. He taught school for a time and was later associated with the 
clothing industry at Ossining, N. Y., for a period of nine years. In 1881 his ser- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. . 781 

vices were secured by the above firm, tirst in the sales department and then in 
charge of the general office. In 1883 he was appointed superintendent. 

Mr. Bartrum married Miss Hannali 1£. Willsea, of Tarrytown, and they arc the 
parents of two children, Dr. William C. and Miss Nellie E. 

WILLIAM R. BEAL, president of the Xowburgii Light, Heat and Power Com- 
pany, was born in Newark, N. J., in 1838. His father, Joseph Reynolds, a gentle- 
man by birth and education, and his mother, Elizabeth Austen, came to this country 
from England about 1830. 

Left an orphan at an early age, he first engaged in a fifteen hour a day business 
for nearly two years and then commenced his career with gas companies. His ex- 
perience in the latter line of business was with the Newark, N. J., Gas Light Co. 
and then with the gas company at Elizabeth. In 1855 he became manager of the 
Yonkers Gas Light Co., leaving it in 1866 to take the same position in the territory 
now known as the Twenty-third Ward, New York City. In 1870 he organized the 
company and built the works now controlling the sale of gas in the Twenty-fourth 
Ward, New York City. In 1895, and as president of these companies, he sold them 
to the New Amsterdam Gas Company of New York City, now controlled by the 
Consolidated Gas Company, New York City. 

While living in the Twenty-third Ward, he was actively identified in church and 
Sunday-schools and church construction and management, and for twelve years 
with the public school system of New York as trustee and chairman. 

Mr. Beal was president of the American Gas Light Association in 1902, and is 
now a trustee and treasurer of its educational fund. In 1900 he became president 
of the Newburgh Light, Heat and Power Co., and a little later of the Poughkeep- 
sie L., H. & P. Co. His policy throughout his career of more than half a century 
with gas enterprises has been to use the best manufacturing and distributing ap- 
paratus and to give the best possible service at equitable rates. 

For many years Mr. Beal has been largely identified with real estate and building 
operations and in the organization and management of incorporated enterprises. 
He is a warden of Holy Trinity Church, New York, is an officer of Christian as- 
sociations, a Free Mason and a Grand Army man, as well as a member of several 
clubs, church and benevolent institutions. 

In 1863 ^^r. Beal was united in marriage to Eleanor Louise Bell. Their living 
children, Reynolds and Gifford are artists, Thaddeus R. is manager of the Pough- 
keepsie L., H. & P. Co., Albert R. is manager of the gas department, Newburgh 
L., H. & P. Co., Mrs. Charles E. .-Xckcr and Miss Mary Reynolds Beal. 

OSCAR W. BELCHER, who recently purchased the Lee farm in the town of 
Cornwall, has resided in Orange County nearly half a century. He was born in 
Passaic County, N. J., in 1844, where he remained until 1859. With the exception 
of two and a half years spent in Michigan, Mr. Belcher has been engaged in farm- 
ing in what is now the town of Tu.xedo. In 1907 he disposed of his property there 
and removed to his present home. 



782 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

THE BELKNAP FAMILY.— Abraham Belknap, from whom the Belknap family 
in this country trace their descent, emigrated from England and settled in Lynn, 
Mass., in 1637. Samuel Belknap, the immediate ancestor of the family in Orange 
County, was born in 1707, came to Newburgh in 1749, and died in 1771. His son 
Isaac, during the struggle for independence, was appointed a captain of a company 
of rangers, and later in the regular service as assistant deputy quartermaster- 
general. Another son, Abel, was chairman of the committee of safety for the 
Newburgh precinct during the Revolution. At the close of the war he engaged in 
the manufacture of soap. This became an important industry, and has extended 
from father to son for four generations as follows: Abel Belknap, 1783 to 1804; 
his sons, Abel and Moses Higby Belknap, 1804 to 1855 ; Moses Cook Belknap and 
Belknap & McCann, 1855 to 1892, and William Cook Belknap, 1892 to the present. 

Moses Higby Belknap was born in Newburgh, N. Y., September 23, 1787, and 
died January 4, 1855. He was president of the village of Newburgh in 1832-33-34- 
38-39-41-43-44. He was one of the founders of the Newburgh High School. 

Moses Cook Belknap was born in Newburgh, February 2, 1832, a son of Moses 
H. and Ruth P. (Cook) Belknap. In 1867 he was appointed cashier of the High- 
land National Bank and January 9, 1883, was elected its president, continuing in 
this office until he retired on account of ill health in 1892. He died at Newburgh, 
October 3, 1892. Upon the death of his father in 1855, Mr. Belknap formed a co- 
partnership with Thomas M. McCann to continue the soap manufacturing business 
of A. & M. H. Belknap, Mr. Belknap managing the finances of the concern. He 
served as clerk and treasurer of the board of trustees of the First Presbyterian 
Church from 1855 o the time of his death. He was one of the founders of the 
local Y. M. C. A. and was connected therewith after its reorganization. In 1877 
he served as alderman from the Third Ward and in 1884 was elected a member of 
the Board of Education and re-elected in 1888. In 1887 he was chosen its president. 

In 1857 Mr. Belknap married Mary H., daughterlof William K. Mailler, who died 
May 31. 1858. In 1862 he married Marietta, daughter of David McCamly, of War- 
wick, N. Y. She died in 1873, leaving three sons and one daughter. In 1875 he 
married Evelina, daughter of Dr. Nathaniel Deyo, by whom he had a son and a 
daughter, now living. 

WILLIAM COOK BELKNAP, son of Moses Cook and Marietta (McCamly) 
Belknap, was born at Newburgh, N. Y., July 15, 1864. He was educated in the 
private and public schools of that city and at Williston Seminary, East Hampton, 
Mass. He married Helen, daughter of the late George W. and Margaret (Brown) 
Kerr, December 15, 1890. Two children have been born to them, William Kerr, born 
December 10, 1897, and Helen Kerr, born April 8, 1899. 

Mr. Belknap is engaged in the manufacture of soap under the firm name of Bel- 
knap & McCann, carrying on the business established by Abel Belknap about 1783. 
He is also engaged in other enterprises in Newburgh. Mr. Belknap has served as 
a member of the board of park commissioners of Newburgh since 1897. He is a 
member of the board of trustees of Washington's Headquarters (under appoint- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 783 

meiit by Governor Higgins), corresponding secretary of the Historical Society of 
Xewburgh Bay and the Highlands, member of the board of trustees of St. Luke's 
Hospital, a trustee of the Cedar Hill Cemetery Association and a vestryman of St. 
George's Church. 

THE BENEDICT FAMILY.— The first of the Benedict family to come to 
Orange County was Elder James Benedict, a great grandson of Thomas Benedict, 
who came from England and settled on Long Island about 1638. Elder James Bene- 
dict came to Warwick in 1765 and made his home in a log house near Chonck's 
Hill — he had separated from the church in Ridgetield, Conn., because of unjust de- 
mands of the tithe-master and very soon after coming to Warwick lent his efforts 
toward establishing the First Baptist Church. The first house built for worship 
was one over which he was pastor and stood at the fork of the road nearly oppo- 
site the church burying ground — on an angle which still continues to be churcli 
property. He left Warwick in the year 1773, and moved to Wyoming, Pa., because 
of difliculty arising in the church through prejudice toward the Order of Free 
Masons, of which he was a member and which connection saved the lives of him- 
self and family at the fearful Wyoming massacre when a secret signal from Brandt 
brought mercy and safe escort to peaceful territory, he returned to Warwick at 
once and died here, September 9, 1792, aged seventy-two years. He is buried be- 
side his wife, Mary, near where the church stood. The stone house just east of 
Warwick village was built by his oldest son, James, in 1779, and has descended 
through succeeding generations to the present owners — the children of Captain Jas. 
W. Benedict. 

JAMES D. BENEDICT was born in the slone house about one mile from War- 
wick, Orange County, September 2, 1834. His father, William Smith Benedict, 
purchased the Wickham farm about 1839 and continued to operate it for many 
years. He removed to Warwick in April, 1867, and remained there until his death, 
September 22, 1883. James atten(3ed the district school and the Florida Institute. 
He assisted his father on the farm during his younger days and has always made 
farming his occupation. He removed to Warwick in 1871. remaining there about 
nine years, when he again took up his residence on the Wickham farm, where he 
resided until his death, which occurred February 17, 1898. He was a member of the 
Grange, a prosperous farmer and a good citizen. Mrs. Benedict has presented the 
International Sunshine Society with a plot of land on her farm near Wisner, on 
which the society will erect a bungalow costing about $2,000. The plot is beauti- 
fully located, presenting a fine view of the surrounding country. On it is a spring 
that never freezes, supplying an abundance of pure water. The place is to be 
known as "The James D. Benedict Sunshine Rest Home." 

JAMES H. BENEDICT was born on the Benedict homestead in the old stone 
house at Stone Bridge, February 13, 1854. and lived there with his father thirty-five 
years. November 14. 1888. he married Miss .Vda Pitts, and they had two children 



784 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

— Laura, born in October, 1889, and W. Smith, born in December, 1890. He has a 
large dairy farm, is a member of the Grange, and a democrat. 

JOHN VAN DUZER BENEDICT.— The Benedict family in America dates back 
to A. D. 1638, when Thomas Benedict and his wife, Mary (Bridgum) Benedict, the 
first of the name to come to America, settled at the colony of Massachusetts Bay. 

The subject of this sketch is in the eighth line of descent from Thomas, the first 
settler, and in the fifth line from Elder James Benedict, the first of the name in 
Orange County. Our subject was born in the town of Warwick, on January i, 
1837, in the stone house, now standing and for many years known as the "John 
Blain" house. His parents were Abner Benedict and Julia A. (Van Duzer) Bene- 
dict, who were each in equal lines of descent from both Thomas, the first settler, 
and from the "old Elder," as he was familiarly called. He first attended school in 
the old stone schoolhouse, at that time standing opposite the forks of the high- 
way near Stonebridge, afterwards at the district school in the village of Edenville, 
entered the academy known as the "Warwick Institute," at Warwick, N. Y., on 
December 5, 1853, its opening day, and was also a student at the S. S. Seward In- 
stitute at Florida, N. Y., during the spring term in 1857, under the direction of 
Professor John W. Round, then principal of that institution. He entered the fresh- 
man class of Union College at Schenectady on the opening of the school year in 
September, 1857, and completing the full classical course, graduated on the 25th day 
of July, 1861. Returning home, he lived with his parents at their home near Eden- 
ville, Orange County, N. Y. 

JOHN W. BENEDICT.— His parents were Henry A. and Laura T. Benedict, 
and he was born on the homestead farm, August 16, 1855. After his school days 
he became a farmer, and has not changed his occupation. His dairy farm consists 
of 230 acres, and has belonged to the Benedicts since 1817. His father, born in 
1818, died April 3, 1900, and his mother, born in 1826, is still living. They had ten 
children, eight of whom are living. 

CHARLES F. BENNETT, of Middletown, N. Y., was born in the Bennett 
homestead near Middletown, October 15, 1869. His early life was spent principally 
on his father's farm. His father, John F. Bennett, removed to Bloomingburgh, 
Sullivan County, and engaged in the hotel and livery business. Charles Bennett is 
a member of numerous social and fraternal societies, including the Masons, Royal 
Arcanum, Elks and Eagles. For over two years he served as postmaster at 
Bloomingburgh. He engaged in the livery business at Middletown in 1900 and 
now has one of the largest livery establishments in the city. He recently purchased 
of his father the homestead farm at Springside, near Middletown. This farm has 
been in the possession of the family over one hundred years. Mr. Bennett was 
joined in marriage with Kittie Bertholf, daughter of Andrew T. Bertholf, of 
Howells, N. Y., January 25, 1892. They have one son, Mortimer W., a student at 
the Middletown High School. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 785 

JOHN BIGELOW.— The following data taken from "Who's Who in America," 
covers in concise form the career of this distinguished citizen whose country seat 
is at Highland Falls, N. Y. : 

"John Bigelow, author; born Maiden, Ulster County, N. Y., November 25, 1817. 
Graduated from Union College, 1835 (LL.D., Union and Racine Colleges, 1886; 
University of the City of New York, 1889) ; admitted to bar; inspector Sing Sing 
prison, 1845 to 1846 ; one of the editors New York Evening Post, 1849-61. Consul 
at Paris, France, 1861-64. United States Minister to France, 1864-67. Chairman 
of Governor Tilden's canal investigating committee, 1875. Secretary of State of 
New York, 1875-77. Executor and trustee of will of late Samuel J. Tilden. Presi- 
dent board of trustees. New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden's foun- 
dations. Author: Molinos the Quietist; France and the Confederate Navy; Life 
of William Cullen Bryant; Life of Samuel J. Tilden (2 vols.). A life of Franklin 
(3 vols.) from his pen, and the complete writings of Franklin which he edited 
(10 vols.)." 

JOHN W. BINGHAM, whose fruit farm of sixty acres is located in the town 
of Newburgh near the county line, was born in the town of Marlborough, Ulster 
County, in 1852. His education was obtained in the Marlborough schools and the 
public schools of New York City, and he then engaged with his father in the man- 
agement of the farm, which was purchased in 1867. Mr. Bingham is an elder in the 
Marlborough Presbyterian Church and identified with the I. O. O. F. He married 
Miss Mary Bloomer and three children have been born to them. He is a son of 
Charles E. and Amelia (Holmes) Bingham, who w'cre prominent in church and 
social circles of Marlborough. 

JOHN JACOB BIPPUS, a successful merchant of Port Jervis, was born at 
Bearville, Pa. His parents removed to Port Jervis when he was a child, and in the 
schools of that place he received his education. He has been engaged in the gro- 
cery business since 1891, and is one of the leading merchants of Port Jervis. Mr. 
Bippus is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the K. of P., Elks, and is an officer 
in the Building and Loan Association. He is vice-president of the board of trade, 
has been town collector and was one of the first aldermen elected after Port Jervis 
received its charter as a city. 

CALEB BIRCH. — Among the representative merchants of Orange County is 
Mr. Birch, who has conducted a boot and shoe establishment in Walden for a period 
of thirty-three years. Mr. Birch is a native of the town of Plattekill, Ulster County, 
N. Y., and his younger days were spent in farming. In 1872 he opened his store in 
Walden and in 1875 erected the building he now occupies. Mr. Birch is a member 
of the American Mechanics and the Knights of Honor. He married Miss Abbie 
Gale and the following children have been born to them: Caleb, George, Marcus 
and Leuella. George, who is in business with his father, is clerk of the town of 



-86 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Montgomery, a member of the Masonic fraternity and one of Walden's progressive 
young citizens. 

HILAND H. BLAXCHARD was born in Acra, Greene County, N. Y., February 
i8, 1850. His father, Justus Blanchard, was for a time engaged in the hotel busi- 
ness, after which he settled on a farm. He died at the age of thirty-five years. 
His wife, Emeline, daughter of Miles Darby, was born in Greene County and sur- 
vived her husband's death many years, passing away at the age of seventy. The 
only surviving member of the family is the subject of our sketch. He attained his 
early education at the district school and afterwards attended the Wallkill Acad- 
emy. In the fall of 1868 he identified himself with Wheeler Madden & Clemson, 
saw manufacturers, of Middletown, N. Y., and for the past twenty years has filled 
the office of superintendent of that concern. Mr. Blanchard married Miss Sarah 
Biggin, of Middletown ; four children were born to this union. He is a member 
of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M., of Middletown, and the Knights of Pythias. 
In politics he is a democrat and has served on cit}' and county commi'ttees, is a 
member of the board of water commissioners and president of the Old Orchard 
Club. 

FRED P. BLIVEN was born February 22, 187 1, at Michigan Corners, Orange 
County. His parents were Ulysses and Caroline Bliven. There were six children 
in the parents' family. Fred attained his early education at the district school, and 
at an early age worked on a farm, which occupation he has always followed. He 
married Nettie Clara, of Middletown, March 22, 1897. Their one child. Pearl, re- 
sides at home. His father died in 1888 and the mother ii; 1880. 

JOSEPH BOARD, merchant, was born at Chester, N. Y., November 9, 1842, 
son of Peter Seeley and Madeline C. (Conklin) Board, grandson of General Charles 
Board, of Boardville, N. J., and great-grandson of Captain Joseph Board, of the 
Revolutionary Army. He was graduated from Amherst College as A.B., with 
Phi Beta Kappa honors in 1867. He has been a merchant, selling coal, feed and 
lumber since January i, 1868, and is a member of the firm of Board & Bryan. He 
is a director of the Watertown Water, Light and Power Company of Watertown, 
South Dakota; director and secretary of the Chester (New York) Telephone Com- 
pany, and director of the Chester National Bank (and secretary of the board). 
Since 1868 he has acted as executor or administrator of over twenty different estates 
of deceased persons. He was excise commissioner of the town of Chester, N. Y., in 
1876; member of the board of supervisors of Orange County, New York, from 
1878 to 1880, and 1883 and 1884; candidate for member of assembly, 1884, but de- 
feated; and member of over twenty years and president five years of the Board of 
Education of Chester Village; clerk of villege of Chester, from 1892 to 1894. He 
was superintendent of construction of the Chester Waterworks in 1892 and 1893, 
trustee of Chester Village one year, and he is trustee of the Chester Free Library 
of Chester, N. Y. He made summer tours of the Pacific Coast, in 1869, Texas, Mexico, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 787 

Xcw Mexico and Wyoming in 1883, British Isles and Continent of Europe in 1887. 
Arkansas and Missouri in 1904, Dakotas and Minnesota in 1905 ; also frequent sum- 
mer journeys through New England. He is a republican in politics and a Presbyte- 
rian in religion (Liberal School). He is a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon 
Society, Amherst College, Delta Kappa Epsilon Club of New York City, member 
of the Sons of the Revolution, also a member of the American Geographical So- 
ciety. Mr. Board married twice, first, June i, 1868, Josephine Bradbury Curry, and 
second. October 2, 1870, Hannah A. Curry (both of Tilton, N. H.), and they have 
three children: Joseph Orton, born in 1873; Anna Tebbetts, born in 1880, and Jo- 
sephine Clough, born in 1885. 

JAMES BOXXYMAX was born September i, 1854, in Batriphnie, Banffshire 
County, Scotland. He received a common school education in Scotland, and came 
to America in 1872. He located in Philadelphia and worked at his trade as florist 
nearly nine years. He moved to Warwick in 1880, and after working for J. E. 
Cropsey for some time, started for himself in floriculture. He is a large grower of 
roses and carnations, which are mostly sold in the home market. He is a member 
of the Reformed Dutch Church, has been one of its deacons eight years, and is a 
member of the Y. M. C. A. He is an earnest church worker, and active in public 
affairs. In politics he is a republican. He married Miss Catherine Amelia Mc- 
Peek. daughter of Lewis and Sarah McPeek, September 16, 1883. They have four 
children living, one having died while young. Those living arc : Alexander M., 
born May 17, 1885, a graduate of Columbia College of Pharmacy; Amy R., born 
May 31, 1887, a graduate of the Warwick Institute, and Douglass, born May 2"/, 
1893. 

FRED BOOTH, secretary and general manager of the Firth Carpet Company 
at Firthcliffe, Orange County, X. Y., is a native of Yorkshire, England, and came 
to America in 1884 to superintend the plant of this company, then located in Phila- 
delphia. In March, 1886, they purchased the Broadhead Woolen Mills, transferred 
their machinery to the new location and continued the manufacture of worsted 
yarns, tapestry and Brussels carpet. The concern, of which Mr. Booth is the active 
head, is one of the leading industries in Orange County. The capital stock is 
$1,000,000 and employment is given to four hundred persons. 

The officers of the company are : F. F. Firth, president ; .\. F. Firth, vice-presi- 
dent : B. H. Tobey, treasurer, and Fred Booth, secretary and general manager. 

JESSE BOOTH was born at Campbell Hall, May 8. 1853. His father was Al- 
fred Booth and mother DoUie Watkins (Reeve) Booth. His parents had a family 
of four children : Matilda Roe, wife of W. H. D. Blake, of New Paltz, N. Y., died 
October, 1904: Hanna Caroline, wife of George Slaughter, of Campbell Hall, X. Y. ; 
Marianna, wife of Lewis H. Woolsey, of Xew Paltz, N. Y. ; Sarah Reeve Booth, 
wife of Samuel P.. Hepburn, of East Orange, X. J., and Jesse. Jesse's early educa- 
tion was obtained at the district school at Campbell Hall after attending the Clave- 



788 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

rack School near Hudson, N. Y. Mr. Booth has always been identified with agri- 
cultural pursuits. He married Keturah Crowell, of St. Andrews, N. Y., January 7, 
1885. There were born to them five children : Anna Louise, born September 28, 
1885, died at the age of sixteen months; Dollie Watkins, born October 26, 1888; 
Pierson, born January 12, 1890; Alfred, born October 22, 1893, and Wellington, born 
September 26, 1896. Mr. Booth is' a member of the Presbyterian Church of Hamp- 
tonburgh. In politics he is a republican and he is a member of the Hamptonburgh 
Grange No. 950. The farm which he owns has been in the family for a period of 
two hundred years. At present Mr. Booth resides on Highland avenue, Middle- 
town, N. Y. 

JOHN GAIL BORDEN, the youngest son of the late Gail Borden, who was 
famous as an inventor and public benefactor, was born in Galveston, Texas, Janu- 
ary 4, 1844. Coming North when but a lad of thirteen, he entered one^of the 
Brooklyn public schools, and later attended the Winchester Academy in Winches- 
ter Center, Conn., where he remained for two years. From the time when he left 
the academy until he entered a business college, young Borden assisted his father 
in establishing the condensed milk business, then in its infancy. 

The call for volunteers in 1861 interrupted the business college course, and Mr. 
Borden, then but nineteen years of age, enlisted at Poughkeepsie. N. Y., under 
Colonel (the late General) John Henry Ketcham, in the 150th N. Y. Volunteers, 
serving in his regiment for two years and a half, and attaining the rank of second 
lieutenant during that time. Just before his regiment started for the front, the 
young patriot presented himself for baptism and membership in the Armenia, N. Y., 
Baptist Church, and in the years following gave every evidence of a consistent 
Christian life. 

His service in the "150th" was terminated by a serious illness, caused by the 
severe strain and exposure of army life, and Mr. Borden was compelled to return 
to his home for rest and recuperation. When sufificiently recovered, he was trans- 
ferred to the 47th N. Y. Volunteers, and remained with that regiment until the 
close of the war. Returning to his home in Brewsters,' N. Y., Mr. Borden became 
actively identified with the Borden Condensed Milk Co., and upon the death of his 
father, in 1874, succeeded him as its president. 

During his connection with the company, he made many valuable improvements 
in the niethods of manufacturing condensed milk, and otherwise firmly established 
the reputation of the Borden Condensed Milk Co. 

Removing in 1881 from Brewsters to Wallkill, N. Y., he purchased the property 
known as the "John P. Andrews farm," comprising about two hundred acres, and 
by acquiring adjacent lands from time to time, the "Borden Home Farm" was 
made to cover an area of some fifteen hundred acres. Most, if not all, of this 
property was a part of an original grant of land deeded by Queen Anne, in 1709, 
to "her true and loving subjects." Here Mr. Borden built a large condensery for 
the Borden Condensed Milk Co., continuing the management of the business until 
1884, when failing health compelled him to retire from an active business life. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 789 

From that time until his death, Mr. Borden gave his whole attention to the im- 
proving and beautifying of his "Home Farm," trying, as he expressed it, to "make 
two blades of grass grow where but one grew before." With all the improvements 
made upon the farm, he did not indulge in what is known as "fancy farming," but 
aimed rather to make his improvements on a practical basis, furnishing object les- 
sons which any energetic farmer might easily put into practice. 

In politics Mr. Borden was a staunch Republican, firmly believing in every 
citizen taking an Active part in the politics of his town, and conscientiously per- 
forming his duty at the primaries and the polls. 

Mr. Borden's patriotism increased with years, and he was one, if not the first, of 
the pioneers who labored to impress upon the minds of the children a strong love 
for country and "the Stars and Stripes," and each Decoration Day he presented to 
every child in the public schools in his vicinity, a small American flag ; continuing 
this practice until his death. Among Mr. Borden's characteristics, none were 
stronger than his devotion to home and country. Courtesy and gentleness were 
also marked characteristics with hiin, and his hat was removed as quickly for 
a little girl as for a lady. He was a true disciple of the "gospel of labor," and one 
of his unwritten mottoes was, that "what was worth doing at all was worth doing 
well," which rule was followed out in all his undertakings. He worked incessantly 
and was old before his time. Mr. Borden died in October, 1891, at Ormond, Fla., 
where, as well as in the North, he left an enviable and lasting record of prac- 
tical Christian living. He lived but forty-seven years — a short life, but one so 
filled with work for God and humanity, that its value cannot be estimated by the 
number of years alone. 

CHARLES CLAYTON BOURNE, brick manufacturer, was born in Brookfyn, 
N. v., in 1865 and has resided in Newburgh since 1889, when he began the manufac- 
ture of brick at Fishkill Landing, Dutchess County, shortly after completing his 
education at the University of the City of New York. Mr. Bourne is identified with 
the ^L^sonic fraternity ; member of the Powelton Club and a director of the City 
Club of Newburgh. He married Miss Anna, daughter of James Fullager. Their 
mansion overlooking the Hudson was erected by Mr. Bourne in 1905. 

EDWARD C. BOYNTON, son of the late Major E. C. and Mary J. (Hubbard) 
Boynton, was born at West Point, N. Y., in 1864. Graduate Newburgh Academy, 
and Cornell University in 1887, with the degree of ^LE. ; was assistant in the labo- 
ratory of Thomas Edison two years ; was then engaged as superintendent with 
various firms in the manufacture of electrical machinery. In 1895 was appointed 
chief electrical engineer of the N. Y., N. H. & H. Ry. Co., with whom he remained 
si.x years. In 1901 accepted position of mechanical engineer of Chicago & Great 
Western Railroad, with headquarters at St. Paul, Minn., remaining two years. From 
1903 to September, 1906, he acted as consulting and testing engineer in New York 
City, when he was appointed manager of the Orange County Traction Co., where 
he remained one and a half years and is now consulting engineer in Newburgh. 



790 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Member American Institute of Electrical Engineers; the National Geographic Soci- 
ety; New York Railroad Club; ex-member of the American Society of Mechanical 
Engineers; contributes special articles to the street railway jotirnals; author of 
"American Electrical Railway Practice." 

THOMAS W. BRADLEY, Walden, was born April 6, 1844; was for fifty years 
in the employ of the New York Knife Co., serving the last twenty-five years as 
president and treasurer, during which time he made the plant of this company the 
largest and most successful of its kind in the United States ; was for some time 
president of the Walden National Bank and has been for many years a director 
and vice-president thereof; was one of the original trustees of the Columbus Trust 
Co. of Newburgh ; has been for many years a trustee of the Walden Savings 
Bank; was a member of the State Assembly in 1876, chairman of the committee 
on military affairs and assistant inspector general of the National Guard; was a 
delegate to the national republican conventions of 1892, 1896, 1900 and 1908; was 
elected to the national house of representatives for the 58th, 59th and 60th Con- 
gresses, and served with the committee on military affairs, and the committee on 
invalid pensions ; was married in 1867 to Josephine Denniston, daughter of 
Colonel James Denniston, of Little Britain ; entered the Union Army as a private 
soldier, September 5, 1862; was promoted through every intermediate grade, and 
became a captain in the 124th New York Infantry Volunteers, served as personal 
aid-de-camp to Major General Gershom Mott, 3d Division, 2d Army Corps, was 
breveted major United States Volunteers "for meritorious service," and was 
awarded the congressional medal of honor for gallantry at Chancellorsville, where 
he "volunteered in response to a call, and alone, in the face of a heavy fire of 
musketry and canister, went out and procured ammunition for the use of his com- 
rades ;" was severely wounded in action at Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, was wounded 
in action at The Wilderness, May 6, 1864, and wounded in action at Boydton Plank 
Road, October 2^, 1864; is a member of the Society of the Army of the Potomac, 
a companion of the first class in the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the 
United States, and a member of the New York Chattanooga-Gettysburg Battle 
Fields Commission; is affiliated with Wallkill Lodge, F. and A. M., Highland 
Chapter and Hudson River Commandery; is a member dt the City Club, New- 
burgh, and the Army and Navy Club, New York City; he has for many years 
been connected with the Eirst Reformed Church of Walden ; is a member of the 
Bradley Hose Co. of Walden, and of Enterprise Steamer Co., of which he was 
for some time the first foreman. 

JOHN B. BRADNER, of Bellvale, Orange County, N. Y., was born in 1849. 
His early education was acquired at the district school in Bellvale. At the age of 
fourteen he began working on the farm. When eighteen years of age he clerked 
in a general store at Bellvale and after a period of seven years was taken into 
partnership, the firm being Burt & Bradner. This partnership continued for about 
three years, when Mr. Bradner withdrew and erected the first store at Greenwood 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 791 

Lake, where he continued in business i<>r nine ytais. Mr. Bradner also owns a pro- 
ductive and valuable orange grove in St. Petersburg, Fla. He was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Clara R. Hunt in 187.3. There were four children to bless this union, 
only two of whom are now living. In politics a democrat, Mr. Hradner lias served 
as postmaster at Rcllvalc, was school trustee and has acted as trustee of the War- 
wick Savings Bank. 

WILLIAM A. BRADXER is one of the six children of Jacob Howe Bradner 
and Sarah C. Vandervoort Bradner, four of whom are living. He was born on a 
farm near Warwick, May 23, 1867. The other living children are John H., of Olean. 
N. Y. ; William A., of Warwick : Carrie, wife of S. D. Tilt, of Warwick, and 
Samuel Blain Dolson, of Bowie. Arizona. William A., after his schooling, which 
ended in Warwick Institute, assisted his father on the farm until his father's death 
in 1901. It is a dairy farm of one hundred acres, with one thousand peach trees, on 
which the Indians camped in pioneer days and near which Washington's army was 
camped for awhile. The house was built in 1810 of timber brought from Connecti- 
cut, and Mr. Bradncr's grandfather bought the place of James Bell. Mr. Bradner 
is a skilful farmer, and in practical matters generally is up with the times. 

GEORGE RICHARD BREWSTER, attorney, of Xcwburgh, was born in Xew- 
burgh, N. Y., Xovember 17, 1873. He is a son of Eugene Augustus and Anna W. 
(Brown) Brewster. The family ancestry is traced through the Brewsters of Long 
Island and Connecticut, to Xathaniel Brewster, a member of the class graduated 
from Harvard (1642), whose father, Francis Brewster, came to America from 
London, England, and settled in X'ew Haven, Conn. Mr. Brewster was educated 
at Siglar's Preparatory School, Xewburgh, and Yale University, from which he 
graduated in 1894 with the degree of Ph.B. He read law in the office of his father, 
the late Hon. Eugene A. Brewster, and was admitted to the bar in 1896. He is a 
member of the Democratic Club of X'ew York ; Yale Club of Xew York : Transpor- 
tation Club, Xew York ; a director of the City and Powelton Clubs, Xewburgh ; 
director of the Xational Bank of Xewburgh, and vestryman of St. George's Church ; 
he is also a director of a number of local corporations. 

Mr. Brewster was married January 18, 1899, to Margaret Conlcy Orr, daughter 
of the late James Orr, of Xewburgh. 

XATHAXIliL R. BREWSTER, whose farm is situated at East Coldenham in 
the town of Xewburgh, is a descendant of one of Orange County's old and promi- 
nent families. His ancestry dates back to William Brewster, who came over in the 
Mayftoxi'cr and was the progenitor of the Brewsters in .America. He is a son of 
William C. and a grandson of Xathaniel Brewster, who previously cultivated this 
property. Considerable interest is attached to this farm from the fact that Xa- 
thaniel Brewster near his home unearthed the skeleton of a mastodon, which was 
purchased by Dr. Warren, of Boston, and later sold to J. Pitrpont Morgan, who 
presented it to the Xew York Museum of Natural History. 



792 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

In 1896 Mr. Brewster established here a school for nervous and backward chil- 
dren, and the methods of training adopted have proved very successful. 

WALTER H. BREWSTER, supervisor of the town of Blooming Grove, is a 
descendant of one of Orange County's old families. He is a son of Henry S. and 
Harriet (Halsey) Brewster and was born on his father's farm in Blooming Grove 
in 1869. He has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits, in which he has 
achieved much success. He was appointed a member of the board of supervisors 
to fill a vacancy in 1902 and in 1903 was elected to the office and re-elected in 1905 
and 1907. Mr. Brewster married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. Warren Hath- 
away, and they have one son, Henry. 

GEORGE E. BRINK, agent, L. & H. R. Ry., at East Chester Station, village of 
Chester, N. Y., son of Geo. E. Brink, of Franklin, N. J., and Lucretia Trusdell, of 
Vernon, N. J., was born December 7, 1879, at Franklin Furnace, N. J. His mother 
moved to Warwick, N. Y., when he was three years old. He got a common school 
education, and after working at odd jobs entered railway service as clerk in the 
general office, November i, 1898. He also learned telegraphy, proved a good oper- 
ator and has held various positions on different railroads in the capacity of agent, 
yard master, assistant train master, operator and train dispatcher. For the last two 
years and over he has been at East Chester, N. Y., where he has built up business 
in one year from $300 to $1,200 monthly. Mr. Brink has many friends in the 
vicinity and is well known by all as a thorough all-around railroad man. 

LEANDER BRINK was born in the town of Shawangunk, Ulster County, N. Y., 
January 30, 1833. He is a son of James Brink, who was born in the town of Wall- 
kill, Orange County, N. Y., in 1804. The family is of Dutch lineage. At the age 
of two years Mr. Brink's parents removed to Schuyler County, and his younger 
days were spent on the farm. In 1854 he came to Middletown and clerked for his 
uncle, Hiram Brink, a furniture dealer, with whom he remained until October, 1857. 
He was then taken in the firm as partner, the firm name becoming H. & L. Brink. 
In 1864 he went 'to Saginaw, Michigan, engaging in the manufacture of salt, Mr. 
Brink being superintendent of the works. 

He continued in that business until 1867, when he returned to Middletown, re- 
taining his interest in the salt works until 1876. In politics Mr. Brink is a repub- 
lican and is a man of strong temperance sentiment. He was married to Miss Mary 
Horton in 1857, daughter of Hiram Horton, of Wallkill township. 

T. HUNT BROCK, proprietor of the Hotel Erie at Port Jervis, was born at 
Scranton, Pa., in 1870, at which place he obtained his education. He first became 
identified with the hotel business in 1881 at the Hotel V/indsor at Scranton, Pa., 
where he remained for a period of ten years. He removed to Port Jervis, N. Y., 
in 1901 and purchased the Erie Hotel, which he still conducts. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 793 

Mr. Brock is a member of tlie following social and fraternal organizations: 
F. and A. M. Xo. 291, of Scranton, Pa. ; Neversink Chapter, Delaware Command- 
ery, and Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine of X. Y. ; B. P. O. E. Xo. 645, of Port Jcr- 
vis, and the Sons of Veterans, Camp Xo. 8. 

CHAUXCV BROOKS, contractor and builder, of the village of Montgomery, 
N. Y., was born in ii<42 at Eagle Valley in what was then the town of Monroe. 
His father traded Monroe Village, depot and all, for four hundred acres of land 
at what is now called Tuxedo. He still has a brother, Malcom Brooks, there, who 
is ex-supervisor of Tuxedo. As a young man he taught school for a while in his 
home district, and then learned to be an architect and builder. In 1867 he came to 
Montgomery, where he has achieved much prominence both as a contractor and 
in the affairs of the village. He was president of the board of water commission- 
ers for si.x years during the time of its construction, and a member of the school 
board for nine years. In 1869 Mr. Brooks married Martha, daughter of Thomas 
and Mary (Mouldj Wait, and three children have been born to them. Charles \\'., 
a civil engineer and graduate of Brown's University and also of Philadelphia Uni- 
versity, resides at Washington and is in the employ of the government in the War 
and Xavy Department. Alida W. is a graduate of the Emerson College of Boston 
and of the College of Albany, and is still attending the University of Xew York 
City and teaching at Bayonne, X. J. She is a teacher of elocution and physical cul- 
ture. His youngest daughter, Minnie M., is a graduate of Montgomery High 
School, also of the Metropolitan College of Music. She resides at Montgomery, 
where she is giving instruction in music. Mr. Brooks has erected most of the sub- 
stantial buildings in Montgomery and vicinity and gives cinploynienl regularly to 
a large force of men. 

F. B. BROOKS, bookkeeper for C. T. Knight and assistant postmaster at Mon- 
roe, X. Y., was born in this village in 1872. He has been associated with Mr. Knight 
for the past eleven years and is actively identitied with public affairs of his native 
place. He is president of the board of education and director and treasurer of the 
Fire Company. He is also director of the local building and loan association. 
Socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Brooks deals extensively 
in real estate and has effected the sales of many valuable farms and choice country 
seats in Orange County. 

GEORGE H. BROOKS was born at Mountainville, and his education was in the 
district school. From his youth until nineteen years of age he assisted his father 
on the farm. In 1875 'ic went to Turners, X. Y., and worked at blacksmithing four 
years, came to Chester in 1879, and was with Joseph Gavin two years ; then went 
to Sugar Loaf, Orange County, and opened a shop there, which he conducted ten 
years. In 1891 he came to Chester and purchased of S. Hadden the establishment 
in which he had been manufacturing buggies for thirty-five years. He enlarged it, 
added new and improved machinery, making of it one of the best appointed manu- 



794 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

factories in the county. He is a Methodist in religion and a republican in politics. 
In September, 1885, he was married to Eliza Litchult. Their seven children's names 
are Dora L., Lena C, Elsie, Helen, Merry. Clarence and Phoebe J. Mr. Brooks's 
father is still living at the age of ninety at Little Britain in the town of New 
Windsor. 

DAVID BROWN, who is engaged in the express business in New York City, 
maintains a country place in the town of Newburgh, situated on the State road, 
known as the Cochecton turnpike. Mr. Brown purchased this farm, which com- 
prises forty acres, in 1903. Commencing in a small way, Mr. Brown by industry, 
enterprise and the wise counsel of his wife has built up a very prosperous busi- 
ness in the metropolis. He married Miss Mary J. Baxter and they have one daugh- 
ter, Genevieve. 

EBER L. BROWN, owner of a seven-hundred-acre farm in the town of Mini- 
sink, and much valuable real estate in the village of Unionville and the cities of 
Middletown and New York, was born in Sussex County, N. J., in 1828. As a boy 
he clerked for a number of years and subsequently became a member of the whole- 
sale grocery firm of Stillwell, Brown & Co., of New York City, for five years. In 
1848 he went to California and engaged in mining with much success. On his re- 
turn East he was connected with a wholesale dry goods house in New York and 
a wholesale grocery house. 

Business cares affected his health and he came to Unionville and settled on the 
farm where his father was born. There he made his home and supervised the farm 
for twenty years. He then opened a wholesale and retail feed store in Unionville, 
and here organized a silk manufacturing establishment, giving employment to fifty 
hands. The plant was destroyed by fire in 1894. Mr. Brown now devotes his time 
principally to his real estate holdings in Unionville and Middletown. He is one of 
the directors of the Sussex Bank and has served as supervisor of the town. 

Mr. Brown was twice married, his first wife being Miss Sarah E. Lewis. His 
second wife was Miss Caroline M. Lain, and they became the parents of twelve 
children, of whom five are living. 

EDWARD ALLEN BROWN, proprietor of the Brown Hotel at Middletown. is 
a native of Orange County, having been born in the town of Greenville on De- 
cember 7, 1840. His residence in Middletown dates from 1888, when he purchased 
the Russell House and conducted it under that name until the spring of 1908, when 
the new brick building, erected on the site of the old structure, was completed. 
This hotel now known as the "Brown," is one of the largest and best equipped 
hostelries in eastern New York, and has a large patronage. Mr. Brown has 
owned and conducted hotels in New York City, New Orleans, La., Logansport, 
Ind., and Port Jervis, N. Y. For two years he held the office of under sheriff of 
Orange County; was sergeant-at-arms in the Assembly during a part of the 
Tilden administration ; was assistant journal clerk the first year of Cleveland's 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 795 

adniinistratioii, and was purchasing agent for tlic Xcw York State Prison under 
Warden W. R. Brown. 

R. T. BROWN, senior member of the lirni of Brown & W'hitten, merchants at 
Pine Bush, X. Y., is a native of New York City. The firm continued the business 
established by Taylor & Howell. Mr. Brown was associated for two years with 
Mr. Howell under the firm name of Howell & Brown. Mr. Brown then conducted 
the business alone five years, and ii] 1907 the present partnership was formed. 

Socially Mr. Brown is a member of the Knights of Pythias, lie married Miss 
Elizabeth Decker and they are the parents of three children. 

U. GR.'\NT BROWN is of Welsh descent, his ancestors coming from Wales to 
America in 1650, settled on Long Island at a place then called Oyster Bonds and 
now Glen Port. He was born July 28, 1863, at Burnside, Orange County, and farm- 
ing has always been his occupation. His education was obtained at the district 
school of Burnside. His parents were Daniel T. and Lucretia Brown. Of their 
five children only two are living, U. Grant and Linus W. The latter resides in 
New Orleans, La. U. Grant was married to Anna Sinsabaugh, of Cornwall, X. Y., 
March 27, 1889, anfl three children have been born to them — Edna, Josephine and 
Helen. 

WILLL'VM WISXER BUCKBEE has the distinction of having been born at 
Wisner, Orange County, in the old stone house, which has been in the family one 
hundred and forty years. The date of his birth was July 12, 1861. He was edu- 
cated in the district school, began active life as a farmer, and remained a farmer 
until his death, November 19, 1886. He also dealt in coal and feed at Wisner. He 
was postmaster there twenty years, was treasurer of Locust Hill Cemetery, and 
being a popular republican and good citizen, held several town offices at various 
times. He was a grandson of Captain John Wisner. He was married to H. Eliza- 
beth Wisner, October 7, 1885, and their seven children are all living — Emma, .Al- 
bert, Anna Buckbee, W'illiam, Francis, Henry and Louise. 

AUSTIN' C. BULL, who was born in the Governor Clinton homestead in the 
town of New Windsor in 1855, 'i^s always made his home at this historic spot, 
superintending his farm of three hundred and nine acres. He is a descendant of an 
old and honored Orange County family. William Bull, the first of that name in this 
county, was born at Wolverhampton, England, in 1689. He came to America in 
1715 and a year later married Sarah Wells, of Goshen, which was the first mar- 
riage ceremony performed in the old town of Goshen. He died in 1755 and she died 
in 1796, aged one hundred and two years. In 1868 an appropriate monument was 
erected over the remains of the venerable couple near Hamptonburgh Church by 
their descendants. The father of Austin C. was John Springstcad Bull, a son of 
Isaac and grandson of John Bull, a native of Hamptonburgh. J. S. Bull was born 
in the town of Monroe in 1809. When a I)oy he entered the employ of David II. 



796 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Moffat, a merchant of Washingtonville, and in 1832 purchased the business. He 
married the daughter of Samuel and Bethiah (Reeder) Moffat, of the town of 
Blooming Grove. He purchased the Clinton property in 1840 and the couple re- 
sided there until their death, the former in 1876 and the latter in 1889. Mr. Austin 
C. Bull is a member of Blooming Grove Congregational Church and is identified 
with Washingtonville Grange. 

CHARLES R. BULL, a prominent citizen of Orange County, residing near Ox- 
ford Depot, is a descendant in the fifth generation of William Bull and Sarah 
Wells, the pioneers who settled in this county in the middle of the eighteenth cen- 
tury, to whom frequent reference is made in this history. 

Charles R. was born at the Blooming Grove homestead in 1838 and is a son of 
Jesse and Caroline (Board) Bull. After completing his studies at Chester Acad- 
emy he attended a private school at Bloomlield, N. J., for three years. He then 
engaged in the management of his farms, which comprise four hundred and forty- 
eight acres. In public life Mr. Bull has served as supervisor four years. He was 
appointed by Governor Odell, during his second term, loan commissioner of Orange 
County and is the present incumbent of that oftke. 

Mr. Bull is a director of the Chester National Bank, of which his father was one 
of the incorporators. He is also a director of the Cblumbus Trust Company, New- 
burgh, and vice-president of the Orange and Rockland Electric Company of Monroe. 

Mr. Bull married Harriet, daughter of Jesse Roe, of Chester, and they are the 
parents of one son and two daughters : Jesse, who resides at home ; Caroline, now 
the wife of Clarence S. Knight ; Mary, the wife of S. B. Patterson. 

EBENEZER BULL was born March 3, 1846, in the old stone house at Hampton- 
burgh, Orange County, erected in 1722, which is still standing. Mr. Bull is the 
fifth direct descendant who has resided in this house. After his schooling he re- 
turned home and assisted in farm work and has always been identified with farm- 
ing. He married Anna, daughter of Byard Walling, of Middletown, N. Y., Octo- 
ber 17, 1894. Mr. Bull's parents were Ebenezer and Jane Bull. There were thir- 
teen children born by this union. He is a member of Hamptonburgh Grange No. 
950 and largely identified in the dairy business. Tradition says the barn on Mr. 
Bull's farm is older than the stone house, but the date of erection cannot be verified. 
Purgatory swamp, near the Bull stone house, derived its name from a messenger 
of the revolutionary period, who was sent from the army of New Jersey with 
papers to Washington's headquarters at Newburgh. He had instructions to stop 
over night at this historic stone house of William Bull, became confused and 
stopped at William Bull's son's house opposite the swamp. In getting through at 
night he made the remark "out of Purgatory," and it has always maintained this 
name. 

HARRY BULL.— The parents of Harry Bull were William and Phoebe Bull, of 
Stony Ford, Orange County, and here he was born on the old Bull homestead, May 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 797 

25, 1872. There were eight children, five of whom are living. He attended the dis- 
trict school at Franklin Square and Friends Academy at Locust Valley, and then 
took a three months' course in the Agricultural College at Cornell University, 
Ithaca, as a preparation for the farming to which he has always devoted himself. 
He is a republican, and has been justice of the peace for the past eight years. He 
is a member of Hamptonburgh Grange No. 950, of which he was one of the organ- 
izers, and of the Modern Woodmen of America. 

Mr. Bull married Miss Lucille Pierson, of Hamptonburgh, daughter of \V. IL 
and Elizabeth Pierson. They have two children, Keturah, aged seven, and Henry, 
aged six. 

IRVING CRAWFORD BULL was born in Middletown, Orange County, N. Y., 
January 24, 1879. Father's name was Albert Bull and mother's name was Ella B. 
Crawford. Father was druggist for thirty years. Graduated from Middletown 
High School in 1898 and was president of his class. Graduated from the Sheffield 
Scientific School. Yale University, in 1901, receiving the degree of bachelor of 
philosophy. Graduated from Columbia University Post-Graduate, in 1902, receiving 
the degree of master of arts. Dividing the years of 1902-1903 was assistant to Pro- 
fessor Henry M. Howe, professor of metallurgy, Columbia University, assisting in 
the experimental works in connection with publications by Professor Howe, also 
giving frequent lectures at the University. In October, 1903, he formed a partner- 
ship with Alfred E. Roberts, of Hartford, Conn., under the firm name of Bull & 
Roberts, analytical and consulting chemists and metallurgists, with offices and labo- 
ratories at 100 Alaiden Lane, New York City ; also branch offices and laboratories 
at Middletown, N. Y. They are the consulting chemists and metallurgists for 
many transportation companies centering in New York, also for large contracting 
companies. He is also a member of the Yale Club, New York City ; honorary mem- 
ber of the Excelsior Hook and Ladder Company, Middletown, N. Y. ; member of 
the Society of Chemical Industry, American Chemical Society, American Leather 
Chemists' Association, America's Institute of Mining Engineers. He has been 
chemist to the board of water commissioners, Middletown, N. Y., for five years; 
he is also a Son of the Revolution, and a member of the L^niversity Club, Middle- 
town, N. Y. 

On April 20, 1904, he married Mabel Dorothy Horton, youngest daughter of the 
late James Horton, Middletown, N. Y., former president of the United States 
Leather Company. On July 7, 1905, a son was born, whose name is Irving Horton 
Bull. 

RICHARD BULL, son of Daniel Harlow Bull and Mary .\nn Board, was born 
in the homestead at Campbell Hall, the house being built previous to 1800; no 
record can be found of anyone having occupied it but the Bull family. Mr. Bull's 
late school education was at Farmer's Hall and Montgomery Academy, two years 
.in each. He has always been identified with farming and is a member of Hamp- 
tonburgh Grange No. 950, and also a member of National Grange, and also of the 



798 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

New York Mill Exchange. He is one of the trustees of the Burial Hill Cemetery 
i^ssociation at Hamptonburgh. The Bull family have held an annual picnic for 
forty years on the one-hundred-acre tract granted to William Bull and Sarah Wells 
by Christopher Denn, who were the first settlers in Orange County. Mr. Bull was 
treasurer of the picnic for a number of years, and president for one term. 

He married Annie Wells, of Newburgh, whose mother was the daughter of Me- 
hetable Bull, and her father was Captain William Bull, who was an officer in the 
Revolutionary War. Their one child, Charles Wells Bull, is a wholesale jeweler in 
Maiden Lane, New York City. He is the sixth generation on his father's side from 
the first William, and seventh on his mother's. 

STEPHEN M. BULL, wholesale grocer and representative citizen of Newburgh, 
N. Y., was born in the Clinton homestead. Little Britain, N. Y., July 14, 1844; he 
was educated at district schools and by a private tutor. In 1864 he located in 
Newburgh and was engaged successfully with Johnston & Alsdorf and Thomas H. 
Skidmore & Son as bookkeeper and salesman. In 1879 the wholesale grocery house 
of Skidmore, Bull & Co. was formed. Since 1891 Mr. Bull has been sole propri- 
etor. Married May 26, 1869, Martha, daughter of Samuel Oakley. Two children 
have been born — Emily Grace and John Springstead. Mr. Bull is a direct de- 
scendant of William Bull, who was born in England, February, 1689, and came to 
America in 1715. The family occupied a prominent place in the early history of 
Orange County. 

THE BULLS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.— Stephen Bull and Barnaby Bull, sons 
of Josias Bull, of Kingshurst Hall, emigrated to South Carolina in 1670 in a ship 
named Carolina. They were uncles of William Bull, who emigrated in 1715, 
settling at Hamptonburgh, Orange County, N. Y'. 

From Mrs. Haxtum's Genealogical Column in the New York Mail and E >'ess 
we read : 

"The Bulls were among the very earliest settlers of South Carolina, and have 
always borne a high record in the public life and in social relation. Stephen Bull, 
the founder of the family, was deputy proprietor for Lord Ashley in 1674 to 1682. 
After that date he represented various other proprietors until 1699. He was al- 
most continuously in the grand council, where his discreet judgment and high per- 
sonal character were greatly esteemed. He held in turn and together many high 
offices, civil and military, and was an adventurous explorer and trader among the 
Indians. He was buried at his beautiful seat, Ashley Hall, still in its decadence, 
one of the chief attractions of the historic river. His son, the Hon. William Bull, 
saw service as ar officer in both the early Indian wars, and in civil life was active 
in the commons and council. He assisted General Og' ..norpe in laying out Savan- 
nah, and was lieutenant-governor, acting from 1738 to .1744. His home in Charles- 
ton was the old 'Hayne House,' now owned by Mr. Henry Ficken. His son, Ste- 
phen Bull, was distinguished in military and civil public life, and was the father 
of General Stephen Bull, of the Revolution. His home was Sheldon, one of the 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 799 

old family estates. The Hon. William Bull, of .Ashley Hall, was the first American 
to graduate in medicine, which he did at Leyden, in 1734. Returning, he served the 
province in various capacities, civil and military, until appointed lieutenant-gov- 
ernor in 1759. He administered the province with great vigor and ablity at various 
intervals, acting five times as governor. Loyal to the crown, but without creating 
animosity, he left Charleston with the royal troops in 1782, dying in London in 1791, 
an exile for conscience sake from the land he loved and served so well." 

A few miles beyond the Ashley River is the Bull dominion, where once stood 
Ashley Hall, the country home of Governor Bull, the last colonial governor of 
South Carolina. A large monument of marble appropriately inscribed and bearing 
the Bull coat-of-arms stands on tiie grounds, commemorative to his memory. 

\\ILLLA.M BULL was born July 25, 1830, on the homestead farm near Stony 
Ford, Orange County, X. Y. The present owner. William Bull, of this historic old 
house, which was built in 1791, is the fifth of that name to occupy the homestead. 
The third William Bull, who erected the house, was with W^ashington at Valley 
Forge and at the battle of Monmouth. Our sul)ject acquired his education at 
Mount Pleasant Academy at Ossining. He entered Princeton College in 1847 and 
graduated in 1851. He returned to the farm and has always followed agricultural 
pursuits. He married Phoebe Bull, one of eight daughters of Ebenezer Bull, of 
Hamptonburgh, Xovember 22, 1859. Their children are : Elizabeth Green ; Sarah, 
wife of Charles F. Wells, of Xewburgh, X'. Y. : Ebenezer Henry, and Bartow W. 
In politics Mr. Bull is a repuljlican and has served the town as justice of peace 
for fourteen years, has been past master at Stony Ford, and held other town offices. 
He is a member of the Zetapsi college fraternity, .Stony Ford Grange Xo. 951, and 
Pomona Cirange. He attends the Presbyterian Church of Canipli(.l! Hall. 

WILLIAM EDGAR BULL, of Charleston, S. C, is a son of Edmund Llewellyn 
and "^ ry Evelina (Bruen) Bull. Edmund Bull was born in Orange County in 
1817, IX .oved to Charleston in 1832, and died there in 1892. His marriage with 
Mary Evelina Bruen occurred in March, 184.4, and fifteen children were born to 
them. The progenitor of this branch of the Bull family was William Bull, who 
emigrated from Kingshurst Hall, Wolverhampton, England, in 1715, settling at 
Hamptonburgh, Orange County. William was a nephew of Stephen and Barnaby 
Bull, who emigrated to America in 1670, and was the progenitor of the Bull family 
of South Carolina. Edmund Bull was a son of James D. Bull and X'ancy Rogers 
James D. was a son of Chrisie Bull and Elizal)eth Case. Chrisie was a .son of 
Jojui Bull and Hannah Holley. John was a son of William Bull and Sarah Wells. 
The marriage nf William Bull and Sarah W^ells was the first ceremony performed 
in the old town of (ioshen. They made their home in a log house from 1719 until 
1722, when they built the sto.. house which is still standing. .A view of this old 
house ai)pears on anotlier i)agt in this volume. 

ISAIAH P.U.XX wa> horn at Xorth Church, X. I.. July jj, iS^S. and is one of 



8oo THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

six children, all living, of Obadiah Bunn and Hanna I. Wilson Bunn. He attended 
the district school, mostly in the winters, until he was twenty-two years of age, 
when he operated a threshing machine for four years. He then went to New York 
City, worked there a year, and went from there to Hamburgh, N. J., where he 
engaged in the bottling business. He came to Warwick in 1887, and started a small 
bottling plant. The business was so successful that he now has one of the most 
up-to-date bottling plants in this section of the State. He is the owner of a well 
producing the purest water for carbonated drinks, and is manager of the Spring 
Lake Ice Company. His wife was Miss Minnie Vanderhoff, of Warwick, and their 
children are Minnie and Howard, who are living at home. He is a member of 
Deckertown Lodge No. 98, F. & A. M. 

E. R. BURROUGHS, president and manager of the Abendroth & Root Manu- 
facturing Company, has residea in Newburgh since 1901, when the plant was moved 
from Greenpoint, N. Y., to this city. The factory buildings are distributed over 
twelve acres of land and have a total floor space of four acres, modern in every 
way, and thoroughly equipped for the work produced. The property has a front- 
age of 800 feet on the Hudson River, with deep water docking facilities. A private 
switch from the West Shore Railroad bisects the plant, enabling connections with 
the New York Central, the Erie and N. Y., N. H. and H. Railroads. Machinery 
utilizing 600 horse-power of Root water tube boilers are in operation. Among the 
departments are a gray iron and brass foundry, forge shops, boiler erecting de- 
partment, spiral pipe mill, sheet iron, plate metal and drum shop. The com- 
pany has recently placed on the market the Frontenac touring car, which ranks 
among the foremost makes of automobiles in this country. Branches are main- 
tained in New York, Pittsburgh and Chicago. 

W. J. BURROWS, son of Alexander and Jennette (Todd) Burrows, was born 
in New York City in 1856. When he was two years of age his parents removed 
to the town of Newburgh, and it was here he received his schooling. He then en- 
gaged in farming with Fenton Cosman, where he remained eight years and then 
purchased his present fruit farm of twenty-two acres. Mr. 'Burrows has been 
trustee of the Marlborough Presbyterian Church fifteen years, elder two years and 
superintendent of the Sunday-school two years. He is a member of Cronomer 
Valley Grange and has served as its secretary. He married Miss Nancy E. Mor- 
row and five children have been born to them. 

GRINNELL BURT was born in Bellvale, Orange County, N. Y., on November 
7, 1822. He was a grandson of James Burt, who for twenty years was a promi- 
nent legislator of the State. An orphan at fourteen, he was thrown on his own 
resources. With unusual ability for mechanical construction, and a mind that 
quickly grasped all opportunities for developing the resources of the country, he 
became interested in railroad projects. Meanwhile his love for the law prompted 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 8oi 

a course of reading and study which proved of great value when corporate inter- 
ests were committed to his charge. 

With others he organized, in 1859, the Warwick Valley Railroad. The growing 
needs of the valley called for various extensions of the hne. Mr. Burt's pluck and 
rare executive ability served his constituents well. By the last consolidation the 
road was merged into and known as the Lehigh & Hudson River Railway Company. 
He was its continuous and only president forty-two years, dying in office. He was 
identified with various projects for bridging the Hudson. His was the vision to 
project the Orange County Railroad — "the missing link" — between the West and 
Southwest and New England, via the Poughkeepsie Bridge. This dream of his old 
age he pushed through with indomitable energy, enduring many anxious hours in 
its consummation, but which to-day justifies all his sagacious commercial foresight. 
The record of this Warwick railroad, while under his care, was that it never had 
a strike, never was in the hands of a receiver, never defaulted in the payment of 
the interest on its bonds, and no passenger lost his life during Mr. Burt's long 
administration. He selected his suliordinates with rare judgment. At his death the 
new president retained to a man the entire corps that had served under Mr. Burt. 
No better choice could be made. 

The other roads he served for varying terms as director, reorganizer, superin- 
tendent or president, were the Pittslnirg & Western ; Cincinnati, Van Wert & Michi- 
gan (now the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw) ; New Jersey Midland (now the 
New York, Susquehanna & Western) ; Kanawha & Ohio; New York & Greenwood 
Lake ; Middletown, Unionville & Water Gap, which he brought out of its chaotic 
condition and placed on a sound footing, and the Toledo & Ohio Central, generally 
conceded to be one of the most successful reorganizations of a bankrupt company 
ever effected. 

In 1875 Governor Tilden appointed him one of three commissioners to remove 
obstructions from the Delaware River. The commission served without pay, and 
after their work was thoroughly done a balance was returned to the State treas- 
ury — a result so unusual in tlie expenditure of public money tiiat it excited no 
little comment. 

No public work was ever dearer to Mr. Burt than the establishment of the Mid- 
dletown State Homeopathic Hospital. Serving as chairman of the building com- 
mittee he saved the State much money by his watchful care. He was appointed 
by Governor Dix on the first board of trustees of this noble institution, and gave 
twenty-seven years of ungrudging service ; acting first as vice-president, he even- 
tually became president for the eleven successive years before his death. All this 
he did amid the stress and strain of conflicting business cares in behalf of suffer- 
ing humanity. 

In Warwick his name was coincident with its progress. He was one of the agi- 
tators for incorporating it under a special charter; an incorporator of Warwick 
Institute, serving thirty-two consecutive years on the board of education ; one of 
the founders of Christ Church; on the committee of three to bond the town to 
pay volunteers in tlie late rel)ellion ; on the first board of trustees of the War- 



8o2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

wick Cemetery Association, active in building the reservoir and water-works; on 
the tirst board of directors of the First National Bank, where he served as vice- 
president for fifteen years. 

The American Trossachs trip, which he inaugurated, was one of his many- 
schemes to bring our valley's beauties into a wider recognition. This excursion as 
planned by him would challenge comparison for varied interest and charm with any 
one day's excursion taken in any part of the world. Mr. Burt also did much for the 
development of Greenwood Lake. The artistic station and his own stately home, 
both built under his direction and out of our native McAfee limestone, are evi- 
dence that Grinnell Burt was a man of taste and culture as well. If you would see 
his monument, look about you in the little village he so loyally loved and served. 

In 1849 he married Miss Jane S. Van Duzer, daughter of Isaac Van Duzer, of 
Warwick, by whom he had one son and four daughters : Frank Howard, who died 
in infancy ; Kate V. D., who married Charles Caldwell, of Newburgh ; Lily, wife 
of Frederick Halstead, of Brooklyn. Jane, who died in 190,3, and Mary Herrick 
Burt, who resides in the old homestead. Mrs. Burt died in 1870. In 1886 he mar- 
ried Miss Louise Pierson, daughter of Samuel V. Pierson, of Middletown, N. Y. 
By this marriage he had twin sons, Grinnell, Jr., and Howard Pierson. Mr. Burt 
died August 3, 1901. 

Surely a few words of tribute should be added in honor of this man whose un- 
faltering honesty, ability and enthusiasm called to his side noble helpers and the 
capital necessary to carry out these difficult public works. Personally he was pos- 
sessed of most genial social traits — to see him in his home was to see him at his 
best. Here he dispensed the widest hospitality. He held high national ideals free 
from party lines. He was capable of long hours of unremitting physical and men- 
tal toil. He did not waste his energy talking about things he would like to do — 
he did them. He was acknowledged to be a winning and witty public speaker, and, 
when occasion demanded, a formidable antagonist, as ' ° was absolutely fearless 
and not to be shaken from his convictions ; and yet \: so fair withal that his 

warmest personal friends were among those with who.n he differed on many oc- 
casions. In every walk of life he was a man. 

When death came it seemed only a momentary interruption and to point back 
triumphantly to his long and honorable life of service. 

THOMAS BURT, of Warwick, was born January 5, 1821. Both of his parents 
died when he was about fifteen years of age. He then lived with his uncle, Thomas 
M. Burt, in Albany, who sent him to an academy for one year. The next year he 
was employed in the printing office of Packer and VanBenthuysen. The next 
three years, he was employed in farming in central Ohio. In 1841 he returned to 
his native place, Bellvale, and soon after bought his father's farm and sawmill, 
which he operated until 1868, when he moved to his farm in Warwick, where he 
now lives. In 1846, he married Hannah Sayer, and lived a married life with her 
over fifty-four years. His surviving children are Elizabeth, Lydia, Annie, and Mrs. 
Vernon B. Carroll. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 803 

Tlie next seven years he was in the hiinber and coal business in the firm of Tay- 
lor, Burt and Picrson. In 1876 he organized the Warwick Savings Bank and lias 
served as secretary and treasurer to the present time. As secretary and treasurer 
of the Warwick Cemetery Association he has had the care of its records and funds 
for twenty-six years. He was one of the commissioners who introduced public 
water into the village. He has served as trustee in the district school, academy, 
and Union Free School for many years, and as e.xecutor and administrator of 
estates and of trust funds. 

He is independent in politics, has never held public office, has supported free soil, 
anti-slavery, and republican candidates, as well as Grover Cleveland. 

FRANK V. BURTON. — Among the many private residences which grace the 
banks of the Hudson River at Balmville, none is more imposing in appearance than 
"Woodbine," the beautiful summer home of Mr. Frank V. Burton, located on Big 
Hill on the river road. In 1850 Mr. Josiah H. Burton, who is now in his eighty- 
second year and father of the present owner, purchased a tract of land of about 
one hundred acres and resided in a handsome home nearer the river than the pres- 
ent mansion is situated. The property was afterward purchased by his son, Frank 
v., who in 1895 constructed his present ideal residence. The building is a three- 
story structure, 125 by 40 feet in dimensions and of Normandy style of architec- 
ture, with a covered piazza extending the whole length of the east side. The resi- 
dence is surrounded by spacious lawns, filled with the choicest flowers and orna- 
mental shrubs, while the river view from the house' is one of the most tnagnificcnt 
to be found in the country, extending a distance of ten miles. 

GILLMORE O. BUSH, who has held various public offices in what is now the 
town of Tuxedo, was born at Arden, Orange County, in 1863. After attending the 
district and parish schoc-'s he took a commercial course at the Paterson Business 
College. Mr. Bush tb ent five years in Connecticut, and in 1886 came to Tux- 

edo Park and was appoi.. ,e(i a member of the newly organized police force. After 
serving four years as patroli.ian he was promoted to chief of.,the department, which 
position he still retains. He has been deputy sherifT of the county of Orange since 
1886. In 1899 Mr. Bush received the appointment of postmaster at Tuxedo Park 
and was reappointed in 1904. He has acted as assistant chief of the fire department 
since 1901. He is a charter member of Lorillard Lodge, F. and A. M. 

Mr. Bush is a son of James S. and Eliza J. (Minerly) Bush, old residents of 
Orange County. 

HORACE G. BUSH, son of Peter B. and Harriet (Ford) Bush, was bom in 
the town of Monroe, Orange County, N. Y., March 13, 1863, on the farm where he 
has always resided. The Bush family have long been prominent in the affairs of 
Orange County and in 1905 Horace G. was elected a member of the board of super- 
visors. Socially he is identified with the Masonic fraternity. He tnarried Mary F. 
Smith, and two sons, Peter and Horace S., have been born to them. 



8o4 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The early representatives of the Bush famil}^ emigrated from Holland. Henry, 
the great-grandfather of Horace G., was a native of Orange County. He was the 
father of five sons, of whom Peter H., by his marriage to Abigail Smith, became 
the father of Peter B., referred to above. 

CHARLES CALDWELL was born in the town of New Windsor, March 31, 
1839, the son of John R. and Ruth Nicoll Caldwell, and grandson of Richard Cald- 
well, the Irish patriot. 

After graduating from Albert Roe's School of Surveying and Civil Engineering 
at Cornwall, Mr. Caldwell opened an office in Newburgh, and in 1863 was appointed 
corporation surveyor, and later was annually appointed city surveyor, holding the 
office for nearly forty years. He was known to be a republican in politics, hav- 
ing no influence with democratic mayors or boards of aldermen. 

Mr. Caldwell laid out all the streets of Newburgh opened since 1867, planned 
and superintended the building of twenty miles of sewers, laying the twenty-four- 
inch conduit from Washington Lake and building the large stone arch bridge span- 
ning Quassaick Creek. 

Mr. Caldwell's reputation as an expert surveyor and engineer was well known 
throughout the State, and his services in important and complicated surveys were 
always in demand, especially where suits were brought before the court for decision. 
He planned and superintended the building of the dams and water-works of Goshen 
and Warwick, building the large stone skew arch bridge at Wappingers Falls ; was 
in 1876 engineer in charge of the work done by the State in removing obstructions 
from the Delaware River; did much careful work at the Hu 'son River, Matteawan 
and Long Island State Hospitals, did the grading and designed and constructed 
the water supply system for the State Camp Ground at Peekskill. 

He was also for many years chief engineer of the Lehigh and Hudson River 
Railroad. He was a trustee of the Newburgh Savings Bank, vice-president of the 
Woodlawn Cemetery and Historical Society, and a vestryman of St. George's 
Church. 

Mr. Caldwell was the generous promoter of every public and philanthropic work 
undertaken in his home city, a genial, lovable man who made friends wherever he 
traveled. Being himself absolutely incorruptible, he was intolerant of any dishon- 
esty or unfaithfulness in others, particularly in the discharge of public trusts. 

In 1874, Mr. Caldwell married Miss Kate Van Duzer Burt, daughter of Grinnell 
Burt, of Warwick, N. Y. 

For twenty-eight years he was associated in business with Mr. Everett Garrison. 

Mr. Caldwell died May 8, 1902. 

DANIEL G. CAMERON, lumber merchant, Newburgh, N. Y., is a son of the 
late William T. Cameron, who for a quarter of a century was engaged in the lum- 
ber trade in that city under the firm name of Cameron & Sloat, established in 1866. 
Daniel G. entered the employ of his father's firm and upon the retirement of Mr. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 805 

Sloat was entrusted witli the inaiiageineiit, becoming proprietor at his father's death 
in 1899. 

Kenneth M. Cameron is associated witli his father in this business. 

FR_\XK H. CAMPBELL was a man of honored lineage ; he was the only son 
of William and Grace Hamlinton Campbell, and was born in Vernon, N. J., Feb- 
ruary 9, 1850. He was educated at the Newton Collegiate Institute and a private 
military school in Poughkeepsie. He married Miss Emma Jaync, only daughter 
of Lewis Jayne, of Florida, Orange County. Mr. Campbell was one of the largest 
farmers of the county. He owned and controlled ten farms, aggregating twenty- 
live hundred acres, in the town of Warwick and northern New Jersey. He was 
long a buyer of cattle for dairy purposes, and was at times in the mercantile and 
feed business. More recently he was engaged in a wholesale milk business in New 
York, in which he received the products of eight creameries. He was a director 
of the First National Bank of Warwick, and the board paid him a high tribute as 
a citizen and business man after his death. He was an ardent sportsman, making 
hunting trips annually to the Adirondacks, or Maine woods; He was an active 
Mason, in politics a democrat, and in local improvements a zealous helper. 

Mr. and Mrs. Campbell had three children — Lewis Jayne, Grace Hamlinton and 
Frances Edith. When Mr. Campbell died the son was in the Philippines, having 
enlisted in the United States Army. 

PETER C-\XTLIXE. a prominent young attorney of Newburgh, N. Y., was 
born in that city, November 8, 1882. After graduating from the Newburgh 
Academy in 1900, he > tered the law office of Hon. A. H. F. Seeger, where he 
pursued his professional studies and was admitted to the bar in Maj', 1904. 

Mr. Cantline served as special deputy county clerk in 1904 and 1905. Socially he 
is a member of the ^Lisonic fraternity, St. George's Church and the Wheelmen's 
Club of Newburgh. 

GEORGE WICKHAM CARPENTER was l)orn January 15. 1847. and resides 
on the homestead farm, which has been in the possession of the family since 1764. 
His parents were Oliver R. and Phcebe J. Carpenter; of their seven children George 
Wickham was the eldest. He was educated in the Middletown High School and 
Academy, a private school and the Fort Edward Institute. He married Hattie 
Bennett, of Middletown, in 1882, and both are members of the First Congrega- 
tional Church of Middletown. In politics Mr. Carpenter is a democrat, but never 
aspired to office. 

GILBERT CARPENTER, a progressive citizen of Monroe, was born here in 
1850. In 1867 he was a member of the grain, feed and coal firm of Carpenter, 
Webb & Company, which was later merged into the firm of Carpenter Brothers. 
Since the death of his brother William, in 1877, Mr. Carpenter has continued the 
business alone. He is a director of the National Bank of Monroe, trustee of the 



8o6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Dairy Association and trustee of the school board. Mr. Carpenter has always 
taken an active part in matters pertaining to the welfare and progress of his native 
place. His energy and foresight as president of the board of water commissioners 
during the construction of the plant has furnished to Monroe a water system that 
is unexcelled. He organized the first telephone system in the village and his son 
Louis erected the line. Mr. Carpenter married Irene, daughter of John K. Roe, 
and three sons and one daughter have been born to them, of whom Lewis R. is 
cashier of the Monroe Bank. He is a son of Dr. Ethan B. Carpenter, who served 
as member of Assembly in 1853. 

SOLOMON CARPENTER.— In 1714 Solomon Carpenter, one of the pioneers 
of Orange County, settled at Goshen on Main street, at the intersection of the 
Newburgh and Montgomery roads, which became known as Carpenter's Corners, 
and is now called Johnson's Corners. He was one of the company who bought the 
Minisink patent from England. He was made captain of the Goshen Colonial 
Militia in 1724 and was afterward made colonel. His royal commissions are still 
retained by his descendants. The old colonial house at Carpenter's Corners was 
built about 1724 and was remodeled by James Carpenter before the Revolutionary 
War. The property has remained in the family ever since. Jeromus Johnson, 
brother of General Jeremiah Johnson, of Long Island, married Mary Carpenter in 
1802. The property has descended to its present owner, Mary E. Johnson, who 
married Seymour S. Peloubet, a law book publisher, of New York. The house 
contains some fine old mahogany furniture, which was brought from England in 
colonial times in sailing vessels owned by James Carpenter. These vessels sailed 
from Newburgh to all parts of the world, bringing wine and spices from Spain 
and the islands of the Mediterranean Sea ; cloth, dishes and furniture from Eng- 
land, and molasses and sugar from the West Indies. 

Nehemiah Carpenter, a son of Solomon, was quartermaster in the 5th Brigade, 
New York State, during the Revolutionary War. He was at the siege of York- 
town and his letters, written just before the battle, are now in possession of the 
family. After the war, because of ill-health, he w^ent to the West Indies on one 
of his brother's ships and has left a very interesting diary of his journey. 

James W. Carpenter, son of James Carpenter, was major in the War of 1812, 
and S. S. Peloubet, who now lives in the old home, was in the Civil War. 

FRED C. CARY. — Isaac Cary, the father of Fred C, was a descendant of John 
Cary, who came from Somerset, England, in 1634, and joined the Plymouth Colony, 
was born in Mendham, N. J., March 22, 1823, and died October 13, 1893. He was 
educated in the district school, the Fairchild Private School and later took a course 
in the Medical Department of Harvard College, from which he graduated. He 
practiced medicine in Brooklyn for some time, removing from there to Warwick, 
Orange County, in 1853, where he became one of its leading physicians and con- 
tinued his professional practice until his death. He was a member of the Reformed 
Dutch Church, and in politics a democrat. He was a member of Warwick Lodge 



mOGRAI'UKAl,. 807 

No. 544, F. & A. M. lie niarriid liarrict Roc, of Warwick, in 1854. Tlicir cliil- 
dren were a daughter, who died in infancy, and two sons — Frank W. and Fred C. 
The former is in the otitice of the N. Y. C. & H. R. Railroad in New York. 

Fred C. Cary, the younger son of Dr. Isaac Cary, is a resident of Warwick, and 
prominent in its business and public affairs. He was educated in Warwick and a 
few weeks before the graduation of his class in Warwick Institute was offered a 
clerkship in the P'irst National Bank of Warwick. This was in 1881, and he was 
then only sixteen years of age. His faithfulness and ability in the bank are at- 
tested by the facts that in 1890, at the age of twenty-five, he was made its cashier, 
and later one of its directors, which office he still holds to the satisfaction of busi- 
ness associates and bank patrons. The year that he was promoted to cashier he 
was also appointed clerk of the village and clerk of the water-works, and these 
positions he has continuously retained. He has been a member of Warwick's 
board of education several years and served as president two years, and is a direc- 
tor in the Warwick Valley Telephone Company and the Warwick, Monroe and 
Chester Building and Loan Association. 

ADELBFRT L. CASE.— Plattsburg, Erie County, N. Y., February 3, 1877, were 
the place and time of Mr. Case's birth. His parents were Dell and Sarah J. Case, 
and they had one other child. Pearl. A part of the son's education was obtained 
in the Franklin Institute in Delaware County. For some years he assisted his 
father in his hotel, and then engaged in the restaurant business in Greenville, Pa. 
He has been landlord of the Burnside Inn near Burnside, Orange County, since 
July 2, 1904. He is a zealous and active democrat, a member of the B. P. O. E. 
No. 145, of Greenville, Pa., and of No. 805 Chenango F. O. Eagles, of the same 
place. He is a lover of good horses and is owner of Fleetwood, No. 37,907, trial 
2:30, when two years old, and of Baron Sturdy. Mr. Case is a Methodist and his 
wife an Episcopalian. He married, at East Sidney, Delaware County, February 
2S, 1903, Miss Jennie A. Floyd. Their son, Howard L., is two years of age. 

WILLIAM F. CASSEDY, attorney, was I)orn in Newburgh. N. Y.. October 4, 
1862; he graduated from the Newburgh Academy in 1880: graduate of Cornell 
University in 1884; entered law office of A. S. Cassedy in the same year, and was 
admitted to the bar in 1886. Janizary, 1887, he became a member of the firm of 
A. S. and W. F. Cassedy, which continued until the death of A. S. Cassedy, April 
29, 1896. Formed partnership with Hon. Charles F. Brown, ex-justice Supreme 
Court, under firm name of Brown & Cassedy, January, 1897, which partnership is 
now existing. Mr. Cassedy is local counsel for the West Shore Division X. Y, C. 
&. H. R. R. Co. He is a director of the Quassaick National Bank of .Newburgh; 
a trustee of the Newburgh Savings Bank ; of Washington's Headquarters and 
Cedar Hill Cemetery Association ; member of the Historical Society of Newburgh 
Bay and the Highlands; member of vestry of St. George's Church; ex-president 
and now director and vice-president of the Powelton Club; director of Newburgh 
City Club: non-resident member of the University an<l Transportation Clubs, New 



8o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

York City. Mr. Cassedy married Miss Frances M., daughter of James A. Towns- 
end. They have two children — J. Townsend and William F., Jr. 

CHARLES E. CASTERLIX was born at Rockport, Sussex County, N. J., May 
25, 1854, and received his schooling at Unionville, Orange County, where his parents 
lived many years. About 1875 he went to Middletown and worked two years in 
the dry goods store of B. C. Woodward & Co., removing to Little Falls, Passaic 
County, N. J., where he clerked in a grocery store, after which he conducted a 
grocery of his own until 1888, when he returned to Unionville and managed the 
Minisink Hotel two years. While in Little Falls he served as town clerk for five 
terms. He purchased the American House at High Bridge, N. J., remained there 
one and a half years, and in October, 1893, returned to Orange County and pur- 
chased the Aspell Hotel in Florida, which he still operates, and which is said to be 
the oldest Irotel in Orange County. He is a member of Star Lodge No. 113, K. of 
P., of Clinton, N. J., and of Shabbekong Tribe No. 46, of Junction, N. J. 

January 14, 1880, he married Mary E. Kellogg, of Little Falls. Of their three 
children one only- is living — Harold M., born October 15, 1887. 

Richard Casterlin, his father, was born at Rockport, N. J., August 10, 1828, con- 
ducted a large wagon shop at Unionville, N. Y., and in 1874 opened the Minisink 
Hotel, which he still conducts. His mother, whose maiden name was Mahala 
Rogers, was born in Rockport, June 7, 1830. They had five children, three of whom 
are dead. The father is living in Butler, N. J., with his other son, Fred, who con- 
ducts a hotel. 

R. HARRY CATHCART, JR., president and treasurer of the Yuess Gardens 
Company, was born in Newburgh, N. Y., in 1884. After graduating from the New- 
burgh Academy he attended the Wilson Preparatory School and graduated from 
the University of Pennsylvania in 1907 with the degree of B. S. C. Mr. Cathcart is 
a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity and of the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Consistory 
and Mecca Temple of the Masonic Order ; Lawson Hose Company No. 5 ; Company 
E, First Regiment ; Atena Boat Club. 

The greenhouses of the Yuess Gardens Company have a glass roofage of some 
35,000 square feet and are the most pretentious in Orange County. 

JOSEPH CHADWICK, manufacturer and bank president, Newburgh, N. Y., 
born Heywood, Lancashire, England, October 24, 1841 ; educated at Townhead, 
Rochdale, Lancashire. He acquired a practical knowledge of the present business 
in Manchester and at his father's cotton spinning mill at Rochdale. In 1865 he 
came to America and secured a position with the Boiling Spring Bleaching, Dye- 
ing & Finishing Company, Rutherford, N. J., and soon afterward arranged for a 
lease of the concern and was in charge of the plant from 1868 to 1878. He was 
identified with educational, church and public affairs of the community. In 1871 the 
site of the Newburgh Bleachery was purchased by the Messrs. Chadwick and the 
present buildings successively appeared, which are among the largest and best 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 809 

equipped of the kind in the country, bleaching and finishing the finest cotton fabrics 
made. Mr. Chadwick is president of the company and head of the firm of Joseph 
Chadwick & Sons. 

Mr. Chadwick has been a resident of Xewburgh since 1878, occupying a promi- 
nent position in business and social circles; for many years a trustee and vice- 
president of the Xewburgh Savings Bank. He was elected president of that insti- 
tution in 1906. Member of the Merchants' Club of New York and the Powelton 
and Wheelmen's Club of Xewburgh, and one of the incorporators of the New- 
burgh City Club. Mr. Chadwick married Margaret, daughter of William Smith, 
of Manchester, England, a prominent bleacher, dyer and finisher of cotton goods. 
Four sons and one daughter have been born to them. 

GEORGE W. CHRISTIE was born on a farm near Unionville, October 17, 1836, 
and died at his home at Pine Island, April 19, 1907. His early education was ob- 
tained in district and private schools, and he assisted his father on the farm until 
he was twenty-eight, being one of eleven children born to Samuel and Jane Elston 
Christie. He conducted a summer hotel at Rutherford, N. J., and afterward became 
manager of creameries at Unionville, Slate Hill and New Milford. He continued 
in this service eight years when, his health becoming impaired, in 1885 he purchased 
a farm at Pine Island, where he lived the remaining twenty-three years of his life. 
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Amity. In politics he was a re- 
publican. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Kelly, of Port Jervis, November 15, 
1865. Their two children are Sarah Adele, born August 19, 1872, and Samuel Hayne, 
born March 20, 1874. Samuel's education, after he left the district school, was ob- 
tained in the Peddie Institute, of Heightstown, N. J., Eastman's Business College 
at Poughkeepsie, from which he graduated, and the New York Law School, where 
he studied two years. He was also in Judge John J. Beattie's office at Warwick 
one year. He was admitted to the bar in 1900, and practiced law in New York City 
two years. 

CLARK BROTHERS, general merchants at Thompson's Ridge, town of Craw- 
ford, purchased in 1897 the business of J. Erskine Ward. In addition to a general 
store they are also dealers in coal and feed. The firm is composed of Theodore G. 
and George H. Clark, sons of Joseph H. and Mar\' (Hunter) Clark. 

Joseph Clark was for many years actively identified with local affairs, holding 
the office of town clerk and justice of the peace. His father, Ira Clark, married 
Eliza Barkley. He taught school for a time at Searsville, and then purchased the 
farm which became the family homestead. For thirteen years he was superin- 
tendent of schools. He also held the office of town clerk and served as justice of 
the peace. Religiously he was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and for years 
was a trustee of the same. His death occurred in 1883, in his eighty-sixth year. 

H. X. CLARK, who is a native of Cornwall and has been engaged in the retail 
drug trade in that village since 1877, is one of its most substantial and honored 



8io THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

citizens. He purchased the business from Clark and Vail, who established the 
store in 1870. Mr. Clark has for many years been prominently identified with pub- 
lie affairs in Cornwall. He has served as treasurer of the village since 1885 and 
is also treasurer of the school board. He is one of the trustees of Cornwall Sav- 
ings Bank. Socially he is connected with the Knights of Pythias. 

HULET D. CLARK, for many years a progressive farmer and representative 
business man of the town of Minisink, was born in Sussex County, N. J., in 1835 
and died April 2, 1897. 

In i860 he purchased a farm in Mount Hope, and six years later bought one hun- 
dred and fifteen acres in the town of Minisink, near Westtown, where he resided to 
the time of his death. In 1885 his son, Clarence, established a flour and feed store 
in the village of Johnson under the firm name of C. G. Clark & Co. The venture 
proved successful and branches were started at Unionville, Slate Hill and West- 
town. 

In 1867 Mr. Clark married Margaret, daughter of James G. Swartwout, of Port 
Jervis, a direct descendant of Roeloff Swartwout, who came from Holland and 
settled at Kingston, N. Y., in 1655. Five children were born, of whom Clarence 
G. was the third in order of birth. He resides in Westtown, conducting an ex- 
tensive flour, feed and coal business, in addition to a three-hundred-acre farm. He 
married Mary, daughter of H. Reeves Horton. They are the parents of two chil- 
dren, Hulet D. and Julia K. 

JAMES ALONZO CLARK was born March 26, 1845, at Middletown, Orange 
County. His early education was acquired at the public school and at the age of 
fifteen he began his business career by clerking for Alexander Wilson, of Middle- 
town, remaining there two years. In June, 1862, he became clerk in the hardware 
store of Scott Brothers, remaining with this concern through various changes until 
he became a member of the firm in 1879. The firm at that period was Vail, Brink 
& Clark. In 1884 the senior member of the firm sold out and the firm then became 
Brink & Clark, which name it has since retained. He married Mrs. Emma (Cole) 
Dunning in 1887. One child was born to this union, Mildred Murray, born October 
23, 1888. Mr. Clark is a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M. ; Midland 
Chapter, R. A. M. ; Cyprus Commandery No. 67, and the Knights of Pythias. He 
takes an interest in the Sons of the Revolution and is identified with the Middle- 
town Savings Bank as trustee. Since 1865 tie has been connected with the Excel- 
sior Hook and Ladder Company, of Middletown. 

ROBERT H. CLARK, supervisor of the town of Minisink, was born near West- 
town. He is a son of Hon. William Harvey and Emily A. (Robertson) Clark. 
He has always engaged in the management of his farm of one hundred and sixty- 
seven acres. Politically he is a firm believer in the principles of the democratic 
party. His first public office was that of postmaster, during Cleveland's second 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 8ii 

term. He was elected supervisor in 1903, re-elected ui 1905 and again in 1907. 
Socially Mr. Clark is a member of the Masonic fraternity and Minisink Grange. 
William H. Clark, father of our subject, was born in 1829 and died in 1907. He 
represented the Second District of Orange County in the New York Legislature in 
1881-82. He was supervisor of the town of Minisink a number of terms and chair- 
man of the board in 1876. He was one of the incorporators of the Middletown, 
Unionville and Water Gap Railroad, and held the office of treasurer many years. 
He also served twelve years as trustee of the Middletown Asylum and was promi- 
nently identified with public and business affairs of his native town and county, 
enjoying the higiiest esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens. 

WILLARD M. CLARK, supervisor of the town of Wallkill, was born at Salem, 
N. J., August 23, 1861. Shortly after his birth his father removed to Greenville, 
Orange County, and in the district schools of that town Willard received his 
early educational training. He later attended the Albany Normal College, from 
which he was graduated in 1884. Mr. Clark has taught school continuously since 
1880, and served six years as school commissioner, following his election to that 
office in 1890. Mr. Clark also owns and conducts a farm on the state road near 
Middletown, to which he removed in 1890, coming from Greenville. He was 
elected a member of the county board of supervisors in the fall of 1907. He mar- 
ried Mamie Clark, of Greenville, and they have a daughter, Ethel. William L. 
Clark, the father of our subject, was prominent in the social and political life of 
Greenville. He served as county supervisor for fourteen years and for many 
years as town clerk. 

HENRY P. CLAUSON, who for a quarter of a century has been prominently 
identified with public affairs in Orange County, was born in New Jersey in 1842. 
He came to Newburgh in 1868 and located on a farm a few miles northwest of 
that city, where he has achieved much success in dairying and fruit growing, his 
farm lands covering over three hundred and fifty acres. 

Firmly believing in the principles of the democratic party, "Sir. Clauson was 
elected supervisor of the town of Newburgh in 1878, and re-elected in 1879 and 
1880. In 1885 he was elected to the office of sheriff, serving through the years 
1886, 1887 and 1888. In the latter year he was a delegate to the national democratic 
convention at St. Louis, which nominated Grover Cleveland. In 1900 Mr. Clauson 
was again elected supervisor, serving continuously until 1906. In 1907 he received 
the democratic nomination for the office of county treasurer. 

Mr. Clauson married Miss Mary E. Monell. They have three children living: 
John, Charlotte (now the wife of V. J. Kohl) and Harry. 

IS.^AC COCHRAN, son of Alexander and Margaret (Greery) Cochran, was 
born in the town of Newburgh, October 29, 1823. Te was educated in the schools 
and academy of Newburgh. In 1839 he accompanied his parents to New York 
City and engaged with his father in a L'rocery and lea business oti Broadway and 



8i2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Twenty-first street, where he remained until i860. He then embarked in the 
manufacture of carriages in New York, where for a number of years he carried 
on a successful business. In 1866 he returned to Newburgh and settled on a farm 
adjoining the place of his birth. In 1887 he removed to his present home, corner 
of Powell avenue and North street, where he lives in comparative retirement. Mr. 
Cochran assisted in the organization of the Columbus Trust Company in 1892, of 
which he has since been a director. In 1850 Mr. Cochran married Miss Rachel 
Sommerville. She died in 1891. Seven children blessed this union. Mr. Cochran 
has been an elder in the Reformed Presbyterian Church since 1868 and has served 
as superintendent of the Sunday-school over thirty years. 

CHARLES C. COCKS, senior member of the grocery firm of C. E. Cocks Sons, 
was born in Cornwall, N. Y., where he has always resided. He is a son of Charles 
E. and Margaret (Campbell) Cocks, natives of the town of Monroe, Orange 
County. The business was established by his father at Cornwall Landing in 1850, 
and our subject has been interested in it since 1870. In 1900 he and his brother, 
Isaac M., succeeded to the business. Mr. Cocks has served as trustee of the village 
and school boards and is a director of the Cornwall Savings Bank, of which his 
father was the president for many years. He is also vice-president of the Corn- 
wall Realt}- and Improvement Company. 

WILLIAM HENRY CODDINGTON was born in Ulsterville, Ulster County, 
N. Y., June 15, 1872, and was one of five children, whose parents were William 
Henrj' and Susan Coddington. After attending" the district school he assisted his 
father on the farm and was engaged at blacksmithing for six months. In 1893 he 
became connected with the New York Condensed Milk Company, now known as 
the Borden Condensed Milk Company, and was gradually promoted from the po- 
sition of helper to foreman, at Johnsons, N. Y. In 1905 he was transferred to the 
Burnside Creamery and is now its superintendent. In politics he is a democrat 
and is a member of the Jr. O. U. A. M., of Middletown. He married Miss Delia 
Louise Bennett, of South Centerville, June 26, 1901, and they have three children, 
Frank M., Florence Elizabeth, and Ralph B. Mrs. Coddington is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, of South Centerville. 

THOMAS COLDWELL, who at the time of his death in 1905 was the oldest 
manufacturer of Lawn Mowers in America, was born in Staleybridge, Lancashire, 
England, in 1838, and came to this country at a very early age. His first employ- 
ment was with John and William Rotherj', who operated a file shop in Matteawan, 
N. Y. He was later employed by H. W. Swift, who had a machine shop at Wic- 
capee, in the town of Fishkill, and who was experimenting in the manufacture of 
lawn mowers, fashioned after Budding's grass cutters manufactured in England. 
Mr. Coldwell, who was endowed with genius for invention, actually made the first 
lawn mower produced by Mr. Swift. He became associated with Mr. George L. 
Chadborn, who was also in the employ of j\.Ir. Swift, and in 1868 Mr. Coldwell, with 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 813 

the assistance of Mr. Chadborn, iiivciitod a new lawn mower, resulting in tlic for- 
mation of the Chadborn & Coldwcll Mfg. Co., at Xewburgii. X. Y., with Mr. Cold- 
well as president, which continued until 1891, when Mr. Coldwell organized the 
Coldwell Lawn Mower Co., mention of which appears elsewhere in this work. Suf- 
fice it to say that their daily output approximates seven hundred complete mowers 
for each working day in the year and it is the largest plant in the world devoted 
to the manufacture of these machines. 

In this connection it is interesting to note bricHy the history of lawn mowers. 
There is some doubt who was the original inventor. An old document has been 
found in the United States Patent Office, dated 1825, wdiich shows that one James 
Ten Eyk, of Bridgewater, X. J., invented a mowing machine. It was simple, hav- 
ing a box like a wagon box, with the forward end open, furnished with two shafts, 
one at the front end, on which were placed the revolving cutters, and the other 
above the center of the box on which were the driving wheels, and on which the 
box was hung. The driving shaft had on it two drive pulleys corresponding with 
two smaller ones on the cutter shaft and the two were connected by means of two 
rope belts. It was a revolving-cutter field mower, and is the first revolving cutter of 
which any record can be found, but the inventor did not claim that it was a lawn 
mower. The next authentic record of a revolving-cutter mower was one invented 
by Edwin Budding, of Stroud, Gloucestershire, England. Budding was born near 
Stroud in 1796. He was evidently an inventor, draftsman and mechanic of con- 
siderable ability. He invented the Budding wrench and various machines for use 
in the manufacture of woolen cloth. He was superintendent for the late George 
Lister, a manufacturer of Dursley, England. P. A. Lister (son of George), who 
succeeded his father (and from whom many of these facts regarding Budding 
emanate), stated that there was no doubt but that Budding took the idea of the 
lawn mower from a cloth clipping machine. He was granted a patent for his new 
invention, dated October 25, 1830, and a circular owned by Mr. Budding's daughter, 
dated 1830, shows that he sold three sizes of lawn mowers, manufactured by John 
Farrabee near Stroud. These facts leave no doubt that to Budding belongs the 
credit of producing the first law'n mower. 

Previous to 1855 probably all lawn mowers used in America were of English 
make. A few years prior to this Mr. H. W. Sargent, of Fishkill, received a mower 
from England and sent it to Mr. Swift to be repaired, and it was upon Mr. Sar- 
gent's suggestion that Mr. Swift began the manufacture of these machines. His 
circular, dated 1835, states that he made four sizes ranging in price from $30 to 
$80. For a number of years Mr. Swift had a monopoly of the lawn mower trade 
in this country. 

About 1868 the Hills Lawn Mower Co. was started in Hartford. Conn. They 
made the Archimedian Mower. It was the first machine made with only two re- 
volving cutter blades, and sold for $45. Other manufacturers were Graham. Emlen 
& Passmorc, of Philadelphia, who produced the first side-wheel mower. In 1885 
some patents on the best mowers expired and many small manufacturers sprang 
lip in all parts of the country, who have contented themselves by making the 



8i4 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cheaper grades. A few lawn mowers are made in Canada, Germany and France, 
but the United States produces four-fifths of all lawn mowers made in the world, 
and they are exported to every part of the globe. 

The business established by Thomas Coldwell is now continued by his two sons. 
William H. and Harry T., both of whom were brought up in the lawn mower 
business by their father. He is also survived by a widow and daughter, the latter 
the wife of Mr. E. C. Ross, who is associated with the Coldwell Brothers in the 
lawn mower industry. 

GALEN COLEMAN was born near Mount Hope, Orange County, N. Y., 
December 31, 1859. His parents were Alfred and Catherine Coleman. His educa- 
tion was obtained at Mount Hope, and at an early age he learned the trade of black- 
smith, which he followed some time. He removed to Middletown, and learned the 
machinist trade, which business he has since followed. He married Mary Alice 
Coleman, of Wantage, N. J., who was born March 19, 1852. Their marriage oc- 
curred at Spartanburg}, S. C, January 7, 1880. Their one child, Frank Edson, was 
born August 29, 1882. He married Eva M. Birtwistle, of Middletown, June 5, 1907. 
Father and son are independent in politics and members of Lodge No. 169, K. of f., 
of Middletown. 

WILLIAM M. COLLARD was born in the town of Warwick, Orange County, 
N. Y., August 14, 1857. His father was Jerome and mother Mary E. (Hallock) 
Collard. The subject of this sketch attended the district school at Greenwood 
Lake, and afterward worked on his father's farm. He learned the carpenter's trade, 
which he followed for ten years. He was married to Mary E. Robets, of Bull's 
Mills, in 1879. Socially, he is a member of Wallkill Grange, and Protective Home 
Circle. He was previously a member of the Maccabees. He is a democrat, taking 
an active interest in local politics. Mr. Collard has been in the grocery business 
for some years. He owns two hundred acres of land near Greenwood Lake, and 
recently there has been discovered a fine grade of mica on his farm, which has 
been leased to parties, who have commenced operating the mines. 

EDWARD J. COLLINS, attorney of Newburgh, was born in Port Jervis, N. Y., 
1876. He was educated at Port Jervis Academy and the law department of Cornell 
University, from which he graduated in 1898. Then he entered the law office of 
Hon. A. H. F. Seeger, and was admitted to the bar in 1899. In November, 1905, Mr. 
Collins was elected on the republican ticket member of the common council, of 
which he was later president. Mr. Collins is a member of various social and 
fraternal organizations, including the City and Powelton Clubs and New York 
State Bar Association. 

H. D. COMFORT, manufacturer of ice cream at Newburgh, was born in the 
town of Crawford, Orange Countj', N. Y., and is a son of the late Daniel H. Com- 
fort. Mr. Comfort was formerly engaged in the creamery and ice cream business 



BIOGRArillCAL. 815 

in \c\v York City, and in 1900 established his Inisincss in Xcwburgh, in wliich he 
has been very successful. His plant is located on an acre and a half of ground on 
South street near West street, and covers an area of 170 by 75 feet. Steam and 
electric power are utilized, and machines with a capacity of forty quarts of ice 
cream every six minutes are in operation. A plant on Robinson avenue is operated 
during the winter months. Mr. Comfort gives employment to ten men and his 
product finds a ready market throughout the Hudson Valley. Socially he is iden- 
tified with the F. and A. M. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Schaefer, 
daughter of Jacob Schaefer, of Montgomery, X. Y. Two boys and two girls have 
been born to them. J. Edmund is engaged in business with his father. 

DANIEL G. COMIXGS, of Middlotown, was born May 17, 1850, in Sussex 
County, N. J. His parents were Gilman Taylor and Rhoda (Worthington) Com- 
ings. To this union were born six children, two of whom are living, Daniel G. and 
Mrs. Elvira La Forge, who resides at Metuchen, X. J. Daniel attended the district 
school, where he acquired his education. When he was thirteen years of age he 
commenced working on a farm until he was twenty-one years old. He then learned 
the millright trade, which he followed for twenty-two years. In Xovember, 1878. 
he removed to Orange County, locating at Middletown, and followed his trade, 
also engaging in the wholesale and retail ice business and retail coal business, 
which he has conducted for sixteen years. He married Louisa C. Smith, of 
Newark, X. J., July 9, 1884. Their four children are Mary Viola, Bertha L., 
Florence A. and William D. Bertha is a pupil at the Oswego Normal School ; the 
others reside at home. In politics Mr. Comings is a prohibitionist and he and his 
wife are members of St. Paul's Metliodist Church at Middletown, X'. Y. 

THOMAS COXDOX', who for many years has been identified with the public af- 
fairs of Walden, was born in the town of Montgomery in 1865. He attended the 
schools of his native place and has been a resident of Walden thirty years, during 
which time he has served as assessor of the town of Montgomery seven years, 
assessor of the village three years, trustee six years, and president of the village 
in 1902. under the old charter by appointment of the board of trustees. He was 
elected to this office in 1906, and re-elected without opposition in 1907. He is a 
member of the Red Men, Foresters of America and Elks. Mr. Condon is regarded 
as a faithful official and public-spirited citizen. 

GEORGE REXSSELAER COXKLIX', one of Orange County's representative 
citizens and merchants, residing at Monroe, X'. Y., was born in this town in 1843, 
a son of Rensselaer C. and Mary E. (Howzer) Conklin. After finishing his 
studies Mr. Conklin went to X'ew York in i860, where he was engaged in business 
until 1865. He then spent two years in the Lake Superior iron district, and in 
1868 returned to Monroe and has been engaged mainly in the coal and feed business. 
He is senior partner in the firms of Conklin & Roe. of Chester; Conklin & Cum- 
mins, of Goshen; Conklin & Strong, of Warwick: Paddleford & Co.. of Monroe, 



8i6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

and C. T. Nott, of Vernon, N. J. He is president of the Groves Product Com- 
pany, of Jersey City; president of the Monroe Lake Realty Company, secretary of 
the Warwick, Monroe and Chester Building and Loan Association, and a director 
of the Highland Telephone Company. Mr. Conklin has served as a member of 
the Monroe board of education for some twenty years. Socially he is identified 
with the Masonic fraternity. He has been twice married, his first wife being Miss 
Isabella Roberts, whom he married in 1869. In 1885 he chose for his second wife 
Miss Mary E., daughter of the late Chauncey B. Knight. By his enterprise and 
energy Mr. Conklin has achieved a large measure of financial success and, coupled 
with a genial disposition, he retains the highest esteem of his fellow-citizens. 

MILTON C. CONNER, M.D., was born on a farm near Scotchtown, town of 
Wallkill, September 6, 1853. He attended the Wallkill Academy at Middletown, 
and then entered the Fort Edward Institute, and later was a student in the Caze- 
noyia Seminary, spending two years in each institution. Meantime he taught school 
at Fort Ann, N. Y. Dr. Conner entered the Detroit Medical College, remaining 
there two years, after which he became a student in the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons of New York City, and graduated in 1883 with the degree of M.D. 
Shortly afterwards he opened an office in Middletown, N. Y., where he has since 
resided. He is a member of the State and County Medical Society and has been 
a member for the past eighteen years of the American Medical Association. He is 
a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and A. M., of Middletown, and Midland 
Chapter No. 240, R. A. M. In politics he is a republican. Dr. Conner was united 
in marriage with Miss Frances Adelaide Cox, of Middletown. 

MATHIEW GRANT COOPER was born February 4, 1865, at Glenwood, 
N. J., and, after his district school education, followed the occupation of farming 
six years, after which he engaged in the meat business for eight years. He then 
worked at Franklin Furnace, N. J., two years. He returned to Eden Station, 
Orange County, in 1900, and was engaged at the Empire State Dairy Company 
three years, and three years more for the Haynes Milk Company. The latter was 
absorbed by the Borden Company, when Mr. Cooper was appointed superintendent, 
and has continued in the position since. His wife's maiden name was Clara (Van 
Sickle) Slaughter, of Eden, and they were married December 14, 1904. Their one 
child is Gerald Frank, born June 29, 1905. Mr. Cooper is a member of Minisink 
Council No. 53, Jr. O. U. A. M. 

PROFESSOR SANFORD A. CORTRIGHT, of Westtown, N. Y., was born 
in the town of Greenville, Orange County, in 1858. He is a son of Alfred and 
Margaret (Elston) Cortright. He attended the district schools of his native town, 
which was supplemented by four years of private tutoring. He graduated from the 
Albany Normal School and has been engaged in educational work twenty-four 
years. He has been principal of the Westtown school since 1890. Professor Cort- 
right is a member of the Odd Fellows, the Junior Order of American Mechanics 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 817 

and tlic Minisink Grange. In 1893 lie was iniitod in marriage with Miss Emma, 
daughter of Rensselaer and Rachael (WeygantJ McKelvey. One child, .Mfred. has 
blessed this union. 

JOHN B. CORWIN, attorney of Newburgh, was born at Middletown, N. Y., 
February 3, 1876, and removed from there to the Corwin homestead, Balmville, in 
1884. He graduated from the Newburgh Academy in 1892, supplemented with a 
course at the Spencerian Business College. Mr. Corwin read law with the late L. 
W. Y. McCroskery for two years, and in 1896 entered the office of the late L. S. 
Sterrit. He was admitted to the bar in 1897. He has also been admitted to prac- 
tice in the Federal Courts. Mr. Corwin was managing clerk for Mr. Sterrit ten 
years, and following the death of Mr. Sterrit in .\pril, 1907, he succeeded to his 
practice. 

JOHN ISA.\C COTTER, M.D., althougli only twenty-si.\ years of age, has an 
established and growing practice at Campbell Hall, where he resides, and is well 
known to the medical profession both within and outside of Orange County. He 
was born at Jackson's Corners, Dutchess County, August 22, 1881. When he left 
the district school at the age of twelve, he went to Poughkeepsie, and there at- 
tended the grammar and high schools, graduating from the latter in 1900. He took 
a course of four years in the Albany Medical College, from which he graduated in 
1904, and then devoted one year to work in the Albany Hospital. After this 
thorough preparation he started professional practice at Campbell Hall in 1905. 
He is a member of the Knights of Columbus No. 304, Florentine Council, of 
Poughkeepsie, the Nu Sigma Nu Medical Fraternity, the Orange County Medical 
Society, the Newburgh Bay Medical Society, the Middletown Medical Society, the 
M. P. S. of Northern Dutchess and Southern Columbia Counties, the New York 
State Medical Society, and the American Medical .Association. Dr. Cotter is a 
lover of good horses, and owns several, among them Bessie H., whose trial mark 
is 2:201/2. His father, John H. Cotter, is a practicing physician in Poughkeepsie, 
N. Y., and has another son Lawrence and daughter Mary, both of whom are at- 
tending the Poughkeepsie high school. 

DANIEL J. COUTANT, of Newburgh, N. Y., bears the distinction of occupying 
a public office a greater length of time than any official in Orange County. He is 
a native of Newburgh and a son of ZachaYiah Coutant. .\ftcr completing his 
studies at Claverack Institute, he became bookkeeper for the freight line of .-Msdorf 
& Skidmore. In 1872 he was appointed city clerk by the common council, and re- 
gfirdless of party has been re-appointed by each succeeding mayor, covering a 
period of thirty-six years. Mr. Coutant is a member of Trinity M. E. Church. 
His father was of direct French Huguenot descent. 

JOHN P. COVERT.— When our Civil War came, early in i86r. John P. Covert, 
then a mere youth in the South, enlisted in the famous fighting regiment of "Lou- 



8i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

isiana Tigers," and fought with them. He saw the hardest service and was 
severely wounded in battle. When the war ended he went to Chicago, and became 
a successful manufacturer of tinware specialties, and after a few years retired. 
Soon afterward he moved to Orange County, bought the Quackenbos farm near 
Neelytown, now known as the Beaver Dam Farm, and proceeded to improve it so 
that it became one of the most attractive places in the state. The farm is rich 
and highly cultivated, the palatial home is surroimdcd by a fine grove of hundreds 
of sugar maples. Here Mr. Covert lived for thirty years, and became a famous 
breeder of the best Holstein-Friesan cattle. He sold the farm in 1901 to A. Von 
Kilch, and established a home in Goshen. He was a charter member of the Wall- 
kill Farmers' Association, for several years was its vice-president and always one 
of its directors. Mr. Covert married Miss Jennie Ketcham, of New York City, a 
daughter of Enoch Ketcham, one of the leading tin and hardware dealers of the 
metropolis. There have been few more striking contrasts in separate periods of 
individual lives than that of Mr. Covert's severe service and sufferings in the 
bloody civil war with that of his peaceful and happy life in Orange County. 

WILLIAM CRABTREE & SONS, manufacturers of worsted yarns, with fac- 
tories at Montgomery and Newburgh, N. Y., is numbered among the leading in- 
dustries of Orange County. The business is now conducted by Harry, Edmund, 
John A., William E. and Charles B., sons of the late William Crabtree, who estab- 
lished this business at Montgomery in 1880 in company with Mr. Arthur Patchett, 
under the firm name of Crabtree & Patchett. In 1S97 the Newburgh plant was 
established. In 1902 the present firm name was adopted. Over one million pounds 
of wool are used annually resulting in a finished product of a half million pounds 
of yarn shipped to all parts of the United States. About 200 hands are given 
steady employment in the plants of this firm. Mr. William Crabtree was born in 
England in 1840 and died in England while on a visit to his old home, June, 1903. 
He came to America in 1864, locating at Philadelphia, where he remained until 
1880. Mr. Crabtree was identified with the Masonic fraternity and member ot the 
Reformed church. In 1867 he ;iiarried Miss Harriet Patchett, daughter of Edmund 
and Elizabeth (Robertshaw) Patchett, all natives of England. 

GEORGE W. CRIST was born February 22, 1875, on the homestead farm 
in the town of Hamptonburgh, and is a son of Theodore J. and Cecelia (Mapes) 
Crist. His early education was obtained at the Grove Street District School, 
and the Montgomery Academy. He has always been identified with farm- 
ing. In politics Mr. Crist gives his hearty support to the democratic 
party and always takes an active interest in local affairs. He is at present 
supervisor of the town. He is past master of Goshen Lodge No. 365,. F. and 
A. M., a member of the Midland Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, of Middletown, 
No. 240; honorary member of the Montgomery fire department, and past chief 
ranger of Wallkill Lodge No. 69, Foresters of America. His father Theodore 
was born on the same farm April 22, 1844. Five children were born in his father's 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 819 

family. Grant died in December, 1875; Clara L. resided at home; George, our sub- 
ject, Abigail B., residing at home; Frank M. married Emily Mortimer, of Brook- 
lyn, N. Y., and is a member of Goshen Lodge No. 365, F. and A. M. Mary Belle 
married Frank M. Cox, of Middletovvn, and died in July, 1898. The great grand- 
father of our subject was Nelson Crist, son of Philip Crist. Philip Crist was 
engaged in driving the stage coach between Goshen and Kingston in the early 
days. 

CHARLES E. CROFTS, who has held the position as superintendent of the 
Xew York Knife Company, of Walden, since 1876, was born in Sheffield, England, 
uliere he learned the cutlery trade. In 1872 he came to America and located at 
Walden, where he has since devoted his time to the success of the knife works. 
Mr. Crofts has served as village trustee for a period of two years and as a 
member of the board of water and highway commissioners five years. He married 
Miss Emma Marsden, and twelve children have been born to them, of which three 
arc now living. His son Arthur is engaged in business in New York City, and 
Emma L. is a student of the Northfield Seminary. 

HARRY A. CRONK was born May 20, 1877, at Binghamton, N. Y. He attended 
the public schools and after his school days associated himself with H. H. Bishop, 
of Binghamton, in the milk business, during which time he learned the trades of 
cheese and butter making. He afterwards connected himself with the Standard 
Butter Co., of Owego, N. Y., and was soon given charge of one of their largest 
factories, situated at Truxton, Cortland County, N. Y., and remained in their em- 
ploy four years. He then took charge of a co-operative butter factory at Brisben, 
N. Y., for one year. 

In 1902 he associated himself with Borden's Condensed Milk Co., and was soon 
promoted to the position of inspector and then to the position of superintendent 
of their Brisben branch ; he afterwards was promoted to superintendent of the 
Florida branch, and is now traveling superintendent for a number of factories in 
Orange and Sussex counties. He married Miss Ora J. Whitlock, of Ithaca, N. Y., 
March 24, 1897. They have one child, Camilla Eleanor, four years old. Mr. Cronk 
is a member of Eastern Light Lodge No. 126, F. & A. M. 

JAMES CRONON, a representative business man of Tuxedo Park, N. Y., was 
born and educated in New York City, and has resided in Orange County since 
1876. He conducted a general store at Turners for a number of years, and was 
the pioneer merchant in Tu.xedo village. In 1886 he established his present bakery 
and now carries on an extensive trade. Mr. Cronon has been clerk of the Tuxedo 
school district since 1891. During this period new and commodious school build- 
ings have been erected, marking the progress of education in a modern community. 

Mr. Cronon has served eighteen years as justice of tl\e peace and one year as 
justice of sessions. He was collector of the old town of Monroe for two terms 
and also served as town clerk nf that town several years. He is a charter member 



820 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of Lorillard Lodge, F. and A. M. ; a member of Highland Chapter and Hudson 
River Commandery. 

It was with the aid of Josiah Patterson and his wife, Mr. Cronon had religious 
services held in the town hall on Sunday afternoons, the preaching being by the 
Methodist minister of the Sloatsburg church. This mission service finally culmi- 
nated in the establishing of a Methodist congregation here. 

WILLIAM L. CUDDEBACK, M.D., of Port Jervis, N. Y., is a descendant of 
the French-Huguenots of that name who settled in Deer Park in 1690, coming 
from Caudebec, on the Seine, in that part of France known in ancient days as 
Normandy. 

Dr. Cuddeback was born in the town of Deer Park, April 26, 1854, and is the son 
of Elting and Ann Bevier (Elting) Cuddeback, who were the parents of six chil- 
dren. He received his primary education in the district schools, and later took a 
special two years' course in Cornell University. He took up the study of medi- 
cine in the office of Dr. Solomon Van Etten, of Port Jervis, after which he en- 
tered Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York, from which he was graduated 
in 1876. He served as interne in Bellevue Hospital for two years, and then opened 
his present office in Port Jervis. In 1892, with Dr. H. B. Swartwout, he purchased 
the hospital in Port Jervis, and together they have conducted it to the present 
time. This is a general hospital and is patronized largely by Erie Railroad patients. 

Dr. Cuddeback was joined in marriage with Miss Alice D. Malven on October 16, 
1880. She is a daughter of George and Philenda (St. John) Malven, of Port 
Jervis. To our subject and wife five children have been born: Frank E., Edgai 
C, Elizabeth M., Alice M. and Philenda. Dr. Cuddeback is a member of the Orange 
County Medical Society, the National Association of Railroad Surgeons, the New 
York State Medical Society, and has served as pension examiner. He was presi- 
dent of the Board of Education from 1887 to 1892, during which time the Main 
street school house was erected. He has been president of the Library Board since 
the establishment of the Free Public Library and has served as president of the 
National Bank of Port Jervis since 1900. 

THOMAS P. CUSHING, clerk of the town of New Windsor, and postmaster 
at Vail's Gate, was born in New York City, December 31, 1863. His father, James 
Gushing, moved to Orange County in 1871 and shortly after established a general 
store at Vail's Gate. Hhe served as justice of the peace for thirty years and as post- 
master eight years. By his death, which occurred- in 1903, Orange County lost a 
prominent and useful citizen. Thomas P., after finishing his schooling, was en- 
gaged by the Erie Railroad as agent and operator, where he remained fifteen years. 
He was deputy postmaster seven years under his father, and in 1905 erected the 
building in which he continues the business established by his father. ., 

JOHN DALES, senior member of the real estate and insurance firm of John 
Dales & Co., Newburgh, N. Y., was born in Delaware County in 1820, a son of 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 821 

Jolni and Sarah (Cavin) Dales. In 1839 Mr. Dales came to Nevvhurgh and entered 
the employ of Crawford Mailler & Co. He was engaged in mercantile pursnits at 
Memphis, Tenn., New York City, and Jordan, X. Y., conducting a flour mill at the 
latter place fifteen years. 

In 1865 Mr. Dales returned to Newburgh and in company with W. O. Mailler 
engaged in the wholesale grocery and freighting business for several years. Since 
1870 his attention has been devoted largely to real estate. In 1884 Hon. Charles 
D. Robinson, mayor of Newburgh, 1906 to 1908, became his business partner and 
is now the active head of the firm, Mr. Dales having gradually withdrawn from 
arduous duties. 

Mr. Dales was one of the original members of the Board of Trade, a director 
in Quassaick National Bank, secretary of Woodlawn Cemetery Association and sec- 
retary of the Newburgh & Midland Railway Company in former years. He has 
also served many years as elder, trustee and treasurer of Calvary Presbyterian 
Church. He is prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity, being a charter 
member of Hudson River Lodge No. 607, a Royal Arch Mason, and also belongs 
to Hudson River Commandery No. 35, K. T. 

In 1845 Mf- Dales married Susan, daughter of Jacob Oakley. There were two 
children born of this marriage : William M. Dales, who died November i, 1883, 
leaving a daughter, Helen M. Dales, and Mary Belknap Dales, who died January 
14, 1900, leaving a daughter, Julia, from her niarriage with Chas. D. Robinson. 

Mrs. Susan Dales died November 24, 1890. Mr. Dales died March 26, 1908. 

HERBERT S. D.\NA, agent for the Erie Railroad at Craigsville, N. Y., was 
born in Gardner, Maine, where he obtained his education at the public schools. 
Mr. Dana has resided in Orange County since 1893, being employed as telegraph 
operator in the office of the Pennsylvania Coal Company at Newburgh. He ac- 
cepted his present position, January, 1907, and December of the same year was 
appointed postmaster. Mr. Dana is well informed on the subject of horses and 
has contributed news and comments to the IVestcrn Horseman for a quarter of 
a century, and to the Newburgh Ncivs and Goshen Indcpcndctit and Republican 
for the past fifteen years. 

Mr. Dana married Miss Nellie Robinson Wheaton, of Connecticut, and they are 
the parents of two sons, George Stephen and Frederick Wheaton. 

HENRY D'ARCY, who was associated with his brother Thomas in conducting 
the United States Hotel in Newburgh for some years, is a native of the town of 
Highland and now conducts a real estate and fire insurance business in Highland 
Falls. Mr. D'Arcy was the first town clerk at the time the town of Highland was 
divided from Cornwall. He has served at various times as assessor and roail 
conmiissttjner and president of the Board of Education six years. 

Mr. D'Arcy has been twice married. .\ son was born by his first wife and a 
son and daughter by his second wife. 



822 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

THOMAS DARLINGTON was born at Salisbury Mills, Orange County, N. Y., 
August 29, 1826, the son of Peter and Maria Wilde Darlington. Through his 
mother many lines of colonial ancestry met in him. A descendant of Deputy 
Governor Bishop, of Connecticut, who was secretary of that colony from 1661 to 
1665 ; of Daniel Rayneau, the first freeholder of the Huguenot colony of New 
Rochelle ; of Richard Wilde, Esq., of Flushing, N. Y. ; and from Edward Griffin, 
of the Virginia colony, on his father's side he was from the Darlingtons of York- 
shire, England, and Edinburgh, Scotland. His father, who was one of the first 
paper manufacturers in this country, died January 21, 1851, but his mother lived 
to be over one hundred years of age, until August 20, 1900. He acquired his edu- 
cation in the local schools near at hand, graduating with highest honors, and at 
seventeen, by his own choice, was principal of a school in a neighboring village. 
Resigning his school position he went to New York City and studied law in the 
office of Mr. Taggart, reciting at the same time in the evenings to private tutors in 
Latin and philosophy. He was of a very religious temperament, being a constant 
attendant at church and having a Sunday-school class, of which he was very fond. 

Soon after becoming an attorney and counselor-at-law he started in business for 
himself, and achieved a most rapid success. The firm name was Darlington, Spring 
& Russell, and some most important cases were entrusted to their care. When 
Mr. Spring died, Mr. Russell went to Cornell University as dean, and a new firm 
was formed of Darlington, Irving & Hoffman. 

His interest in all games and amusements was great, being the amateur editor 
of the chess column in a New York weekly paper for some years. 

In politics he was a strong abolitionist, and took an active part in the anti- 
slavery movement. So pronounced was his position and so well known, that on 
July 13, 1863, during the draft riots in New York City, a mob broke into his law 
offices and smashed all the furniture. Mr. Darlington afterward sued the mu- 
nicipality for the damage wrought, and was the first to recover in an action of 
this sort, the case being referred to to>-day as marking a new line of municipal 
responsibility. As the mob was killing returned L^nion soldiers and hanging col- 
ored people to the lamp-posts, at his own expense he sent down a whole colored 
family that had been pursued, to his country home in Kingston, N. J., and kept 
them there some months until the danger was over. 

At the time of the renomination of General Grant for a second term as Presi- 
dent, one of the general's friends offered Mr. Darlington the appointment of chief 
justice of the then territory of Colorado, but he was most devoted and adhered 
to Ixh friend of many years, Horace Greeley, who was the nominee of the liberal 
republican and democratic parties, and so the appointment was not made. He 
resolutely and consistently declined to engage in politics, but blamed himself for 
over-leniency in the case of Guiteau, who afterward shot President Garfield. 
Having a criminal suit against Guiteau, he had him shut up in prison, but after 
being there some months Guiteau wrote a most pitiful letter, saying that longer 
confinement meant his death, and Mr. Darlington, thinking that he had been pun- 
ished enough, signed a paper consenting to his discharge. It was only a month or 



BIOGRAPinCAL. 823 

two after liis release that he murdered President (iarficld, and Mr. Darlington 
appeared against him as a witness at his trial. 

In his religious life Mr. Darlington always attended the Presbyterian Church, 
and was teacher of the Bible class in the Mulberry Street Mission f)f the South 
Park Church in Newark, N. J., for years. 

On August I, 1850, he married Hannaii Anne Goodliffe, daughter of James 
Yarrow Goodliffe, and the issue was eight children ; two, Alfred Ernest and Alice, 
deceased, and six, James, now Protestant Episcopal bishop of Harrisburg, Pa.; 
Thomas, J., now president of the board of health of New York City; Charles 
Francis, counselor-at-law ; Gustavus C, a physician ; Marion Goodliflfe, and Mrs. 
Margaret Darlington-Wilde, living. His death came suddenly, on the 18th day of 
May, 1903, and he was buried from the same church in which he was married, the 
University Place Presbyterian Church, University place and Eleventh street, New 
York City, from which his wife was also buried about two years before. 

THOMAS DARLINGTON, M.D., was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., September 24. 
1858; son of Thomas Darlington and Hannah A. (Goodliflfe) Darlington. His 
education began in the public schools of New York and Newark, N. J., followed 
by a three years' scientific and engineering course at the University of the City of 
New York. After his graduation, he entered the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons, New York, from which he was graduated as M.D. in 1880. He engaged in 
the practice of medicine at Newark, N. J., for two years, holding several hospital 
appointments. In 1882 he located at Kingsbridge, N. Y., and practiced there until 
1904, except for two years spent in Arizona, where he was surgeon to several min- 
ing companies. He was appointed commissioner of health for the city of New 
York in 1904, and was reappointed for the second term in 1906. His administra- 
tion has been thoroughly eflficient and has demonstrated the wisdom of the selec- 
tion of a trained medical man as head of the department of health of a great 
metropolis like New York, where the sanitary problems are necessarily very com- 
plex, and their proper solution of vital importance. Dr. Darlington has been an 
extensive contributor to medical literature. He is ex-president of the American 
Clirnatological Society, a member of the American Medical Association, the New 
York State Medical Society, the New York County Medical Society, the Medico- 
Legal Society, Association of the .\lumni of the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons, American Public Health Association, flarlem Medical Association, New 
York Physicians' Mutual .\id Association, Medical Society of the Borough of the 
Bronx, Medical Association of Greater New York, Yonkers Practitioners' Society. 
Society of Medical Jurisprudence and Academy of Medicine ; and until his ap- 
pointment as health commissioner of New 'S'ork, he was visiting physician to sev- 
eral of the hospitals of the city and consulting physician to the French Hospital. 
He is also a member of the Archdeaconry of New York, the Church Club of New 
York, Chamber of Commerce, Chemists' Club, The Thomas Hunter .\ssociation 
of Granmiar School No. s^, the Commission on the Prevention of Tuberculosis 
of the Charity Organization of the City of New York, Sons of the Revolution, 



824 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Society of Colonial Wars, New York University Alumni Association, Kingsbridge 
Council No. 1082, Royal Arcanum; the Parish Club, Church Temperance Society, 
trustee of the Bronx Savings Bank, the Huguenot Society of America, Pilgrim 
Society, Fordham Club, North Side Board of Trade, the National Association for 
the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis, New York Athletic Club, Seabury So- 
ciety, Jefferson Tammany Hall, director Crippled Children's Driving Fund, and the 
National Geographic Society, Lotos Club, American Geographical Society and So- 
ciety of Tropical Medicine. Address, 48 West 59th street. New York City. 

GEORGE DART, general manager of the Tuxedo Stores Company at Tuxedo 
Park, N. Y., is a native of Ulster County, N. Y., and has resided at Tuxedo since 
1886, when he established his pharmacy. Mr. Dart had previously been engaged 
in the drug business at 30th street and Broadway, New York City. He discon- 
tinued that store in 1888. 

Mr. Dart was instrumental in the establishment of the Tuxedo Stores Com- 
pany, and has been identified with various movements for the improvement and 
advancement of Tuxedo in material, moral and religious matters. He is president 
of the Board of Education, director of the Tuxedo Library and trustee of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

THOMAS WESLEY DAVEY was born in the town of Greenville, N. Y., on 
January 6, 1850. Mr. Davey received his early education at the Chester Academy. 
His first work after leaving school was on a farm where he worked for three 
years. He was associated with various factories in Middletown and spent two 
years in the oil fields of Pennsylvania. Returning to his native State, Mr. Davey 
located in the metropolis and engaged in the milk business for two years. Since 
that time he was with the Middletown State Homeopathic Hospital for fourteen 
years as assistant engineer. Here in Middletown he has labored effectively for 
the past ten years as superintendent of the Middletown Water- Works. He mar- 
ried Miss Maria Wood, of Haverstraw, N. Y. Three children have been born to 
them, Irving W., Mina May and Lewis Jacob. Mr. Davey belongs to a number 
of societies, among them being Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M. ; Middletown 
Lodge, L O. O. F., No. 112; Orange Encampment, L O. O. F., No. 93. He is a 
member of the American Water-Works Association and honorary member of Eagle 
Hose & Chemical Co. No. 2, of Middletown. 

ABRAHAM LINCOLN DECKER was born at Newburgh, Orange County, 
January 16, 1865. His parents were John H. and Elsie (Fullerton) Decker. He 
attended the schools in Middletown until twelve years of age, when his 
father died and Mr. Decker went to work in a drug store at Paterson, N. J., where 
he remained six years. He was identified with the Times at Middletown as city 
editor for a period of twelve years. He enlisted in the ist N. Y. Vol. Inf. in 
1898 during the Spanish-American war, and accompanied his regiment to Hono- 
lulu as first lieutenant of Company I. He returned to Middletown and took up 



ni( HIRAIMIKAL. 825 

newspaper work on tlic I'rcss, reinaininjj; until tlic 'I'iiiics and Press were merged. 
He was coroner for twelve years, and in 1907 was elected sheriff of Orange Comity. 
Mr. Decker was united in marriage ^o Miss Natalie Wcygant, October 31, 1890. 
To this union two children were born, Richard Stivers, born 1892, and John Wey- 
gant, born 1896. Mr. Decker is a republican in politics. Socially he is a member 
of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, of Middletown. He is captain of Company I, 1st Inf. 
(24th Sep. Co.), National Guards of New York. 

ISAIAH W. DECKER, president of the Wallkill Valley Farmers' Association^ 
is now retired from active agricultural pursuits and makes his home in Waldcn, 
N. Y. Mr. Decker's ancestors were of Dutch extraction and at an early period 
sought the rich lands of Orange and Ulster counties. He is a grandson of Levi 
Decker and a son of William D. and Ellen Jane (Crans) Decker and was born 
in the town of Montgomery, Orange County, N. Y. In his younger days he rented 
farms upon which he fully demonstrated that success could be won in this as well 
as in other pursuits. He later purchased a desirable farm near Waldcn which 
he provided with modern equipment. 

Mr. Decker is identified with social and public affairs of Iiis native town and has 
occupied different positions of trust and responsibility. 

JOHN E. DECKER was born xMay i, i860, at Dwaarkill, Ulster County. N. Y. 
His parents were Ezekiel and Anna Decker. Our subject attained his education 
at the district school in his locality. He married Martha Ji.ne, daughter of Abra- 
ham Vernooy, April 2, 1895. Their one son, Adrian Vernooy Decker, was born 
August II, 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Decker are members of the First Congregational 
Church of Middletown, N. Y., and both are active members of Wallkill River 
Grange. Mr. Decker is a member of I. O. O. F., of Gardner, Ulster County, N. Y. 
He occupies the C. H. C. Beck's farm near Middletown, N. Y., and has always 
been an agriculturist. 

SAMUEL DECKER was born Marcli 12. 1851, on his father's farm near the 
village of Amity, Orange County, N. Y. His parents were John and Maria 
(Smith) Decker. John Decker was a descendant of a Holland Dutch emigrant 
who located and became a large land owner at what is now Glenwood, N. J., but 
who late in life removed to central New York, leaving a son at Glenwood. Maria 
Smith's father, Abram Smith, was a school teacher of Orange County for fifty 
years and her two grandsires were Revolutionary soldiers. Mr. Decker's school 
days were passed at Amity, and upon reaching his majority he removed to the 
town of Greenville, N. Y., and purchased a fann of one hundred and forty acres 
in the upper Shawangunk valley. He has since added an adjoining farm to his 
original purchase. For about ten years he conducted the farm and taught school. 
On October 16, 1878, he married Cornelia Sergeant, only daughter of Jeremiah 
Sergeant, a well-known cattle dealer and farmer at Gardenersville. Shortly after 
this he began dealing in cattle, which in connection with his farming he engaged 



826 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in continuously for twenty years. Mr. Decker is a democrat and has held a num- 
ber of public offices. At present he is filling his second term as justice of the 
peace. Their children number four : Margaret, wife of Frank Neail, of Mount 
Hope; Phebe, wife of Hiram Tyler, of New York City; Frank and Effa, at home. 
In spite of his many enterprises Mr. Decker has found time to devote several 
hours each day to reading and study, is a fine Shakespearian scholar and, having a 
phenomenal memory, is an authority on ancient and modern history and literature. 

JOHN DEISSEROTH, supervisor of the Fifth Ward. Newburgh, N. Y., was 
born in that city, January 17, 1876. After finishing his studies at the public schools 
he learned the blacksmith and horseshoeing trade and has been engaged in business 
for himself for the past ten years. 

A firm believer in the principles of the democratic party, Mr. Deisseroth was 
elected to the office of supervisor in 1907 by a majority of 96. Socially he is a 
member of the Knights of the Maccabees and Columbian Hose Company, and 
vestryman in the Church of the Good Shepherd. 

FRANK H. DeKAY was born in the town of Warwick at New Milford, August 
II, 1866. He is a son of Francis M. and Nellie (Sisson) DeKay. There were 
three children in his parents' family: One died in infancy; Lucille, wife of James 
H. Vealey, and Frank H. The subject of our sketch acquired his early education 
at the district school at New Milford and Warwick public school, later attending 
Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y. At an early age he identified 
himself in the furniture and undertaking business with Mr. Burt, the firm being 
Burt and DeKay. In 1893 Mr. DeKay, taking over Mr. Burt's interest, continued 
the business until 1899. At this period James H. Vealey took an interest in the 
establishment, the firm being then known as DeKay & Vealey, which continued 
until 1903, when Mr. DeKay retired. He married Miss Marguerite Pelser, of Pat- 
erson, N. J., April 14, 1891. To them were born two children, Elwood Frank, born 
March 5, 1893, died July 10, 1902, and Doris Pelser, born June 5, 1896. He is an 
honorary member of Excelsior Hose Company No. i and treasurer of Christ Epis- 
copal Church, of Warwick. In politics he is independent. 

CORNELIUS HENRY DEMAREST was born in Warwick, June 25, 1820, and 
died December 10, 1889. He lived all his life on the farm he inherited from his 
father, Cornelius C. Demarest, which now belongs to his son, Henry Pelton 
Demarest. He was for thirty years presiding officer of the board which controlled 
the Warwick Academy and the public school. He was one of the original stock- 
holders of the First National Bank of the village and its president from 1878 until 
his death. He was also a founder of the Warwick Valley Farmers' Milk Associa- 
tion and an officer of the Warwick Valley R. R., and of its successor, the Lehigh 
and Hudson River Road. He was a consistent Christian and for some years be- 
fore his death was a memlier of the Consistory of the Reformed Church. In 1845 
he married Elizabeth A. Pelton, daughter of Henry Pelton, of Warwick, and seven 



BIOGRAPHICAL. ^27 

children survived him: Charles M., who was horn h'eljriiary 5, 1848, and died Janu- 
ary 8, 1905 (he- married Annie E. Armstrong, daughter of Rensselaer Armstrong, 
of Warwick) ; DeWitt Clinton, born February 18, 1852, who married Ilattie Hud- 
son, of Denver, and lives at Passaic, N. J. ; Mary Elizabctii, born April 29, 1854, 
who married Christie Romaine, of Hackensack, N. J. ; Henry Pclton, born Octo- 
ber 25, 1856, who married Ella J. Toland, of Florida, N. Y. ; Julia, born May 29, 
1858, unmarried, living at Warwick ; David, born February 2', i860, unmarried, and 
living in Boston, Mass. ; Anna, born April 24, 1862, unmarried, and living at War- 
wick. 

The Demarests are of Huguenot extraction. David Demarest, a native of P)Cau- 
champ, a little village of Picardy in France, with his wife, Marie Soheir, and five 
children sailed from Amsterdam, April 16, 1663, on the ship Bonlckoc (Spotted 
Cow) for New Amsterdam. For two years he resided with the Huguenot colony 
on Staten Island; from there he moved to Harlem, where for twelve and a half 
years he was one of the first citizens of th'e place. He purchased of the Indians 
several thousand acres of land in Xew Jersey, in the vicinity of Hackensack. Just 
before and during the Revolution a number of Demarest families left Xew Jersey 
and w-ent to Orange County, X. Y. Among these was Cornelius Demarest, the 
grandfather of Cornelius H. He settled on a ridge a few miles out of Warwick 
on the Florida road, but during his later years he purchased the farm now owned 
by his great-grandsons, Henry Pelton and Henry Pelton Demarest. Cornelius 
Demarest fought in the war of the Revolution under Col. John Hathorn in a com- 
pany of Major Wisner's Scouts. He was one of the organizers of the Reformed 
Church of Warwick and a member of its first Consistory. 

GEORGE HOUSTOX DEMAREST, always a farmer, was born at tlie home- 
stead about two miles from Wisner, June 26, 1873. He is of the seventh genera- 
tion on this farm, which is now chiefly devoted to dairying. He is active in local 
matters, politically he is a republican and belongs to the Grange. His w-ife was 
Miss Edith May Stevens, of Sugar Loaf, and they were married X'ovember 2, 
1898. They have had four children, only two of whom are living, namely, James 
Henry, si.x years old, and Agnes Wood, three months old. 

HOX. AUGUSTUS DEXXISTOX, president Orange County Agricultural So- 
ciety, was born in the town of Blooming Grove, the youngest son of Rol>ert and 
Mary Denniston. His farm of about two hundred and thirty acres has come down 
to him by inheritance from his great-grandfather, James Denniston. son of Alex- 
ander Denniston, who arrived in this country from Ireland in 1729 and settled on 
a farm in the town of X'^ew Windsor, about two miles north of Washingtonville. 
The grandfather of Augustus was James Denniston, who died in 1825. leaving 
several large farms, most of which was bequeathed to his son Rol)ert, who died 
in 1867, and who was the owner of al)out si.x hundred acres of lan<l, beside a large 
estate, all of which was managed by his son Augustus, for the benefit of his mother 
until her death in 1898. .-\ugustus was educated at honif In- tutors in a private 



828 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

school. When his father was elected State comptroller in i860, he went to Albany 
and served for two years as his confidential clerk. In 1862 he went to war, and 
was appointed by Col. Ellis quartermaster of the 124th Regiment, N. Y. S. Volun- 
teers. After a few months' service he was taken sick, and after months of illness 
in hospital and at home he resigned. In 1893-94 he represented the First Assem- 
bly District of Orange County in the Legislature. Afterwards for two years he 
was State cattle commissioner, having been appointed by Governor Cornell. In 
1893 he was elected a director of the Orauge County Agricultural Society, and 
since that time has been continuously connected with it officially, four years as 
director, two as vice-president, and since 1899 its president. He has been a director 
of the Highland National Bank of Newburgh since 1873, and for seven years was 
its president. In 1901 he was appointed by Governor Odell one of the State Fair 
commissioners. He resides in the old home, which was built by his father in 1824, 
is engaged extensively in the milk business on his large farm and has been presi- 
dent of the Washingtonville Farmers' Creamery Association since its organization 
in 1876. 

WALTER DENNISTON, supervisor of the town of New Windsor, is engaged 
in farming near Rocklet. He was born in this township in 1857, and is a son of 
George and Agnes (Stewart) Denniston. He has been identified with public affairs 
of the town and county since 1884, when he served as justice of the peace until 
1892. With the exception of the 1896- 1897 term he has been continuously elected 
a member of the Board of Supervisors since 1891. Mr. Denniston is a member 
of Little Britain Grange and takes an active interest in all matters pertaining to 
the welfare of Orange County. 

WILLIAM L. DICKERSON, attorney, of Montgomery, is a son of Jacob and 
John B. (Millspaugh) Dickerson. His ancestors settled in Orange County previ- 
ous to the Revolutionary war. Mr. Dickerson attended Montgomery Academy and 
Cornell University, following which he read law in the office of Hon. A. S. Cas- 
sedy and was admitted to the bar in 1892. His legal studies were supplemented by 
a course of lectures at the University of Minnesota. He has enjoyed an extensive 
practice in Montgomery since 1895. Mr. Dickerson is secretary and a director of 
the Montgomery & Erie Railroad and secretary and a director of the Riverside 
Cemetery. He is a member of Walden Lodge, F. & A. M. ; past assistant grand 
lecturer of the Thirteenth Masonic District ; a member of Midland Chapter, R. A. 
M., of Middletown, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Mont- 
gomery. 

JAMES NATHANIEL DICKEY, bank cashier, Newburgh; son of William and 
Esther (James) Dickey. Born at Newburgh, July 12, 1840. After finishing his 
studies at Newburgh Academy entered office of Judge J. J. Monell as clerk, re- 
maining two years. In 1856 accepted clerkship with Quassaick National Bank; was 
promoted to teller and in 1895 became cashier. Served as city treasurer of New- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 829 

burgh for thirty years. First vice-president Newburgh Historical Society; mem- 
ber City Club and the Newburgh Canoe and Boating Association. He married 
Miss Eve Brown in 1866 and three daughters have been born to them. 

EDWIX J. DIKEMAX, a successful piiarmacist of Goshen, X. Y., was born 
in that place in 1876. After graduating from the Goshen High School he entered 
Columbia University and graduated from the Department of Pharmacy of that 
institution in 1897. He is a son of Edwin and Elizabeth (Jay) Dikeman. Edwin, 
the father, was a native of Goshen. He establislied the drug store now owned by 
Edwin J. in the early fifties and was one of the prominent business men of that 
place. He served tlie village as president for several years. His death occurred 
July 19, 1895. 

Edwin J. married Plenrietta Coleman, daughter of Hon. Roswcll C. Coleman, 
of Newburgh, N. Y., and they have a son, Edwin J., Jr. 

^Mr. Dikeman is a member of Goshen Lodge No. 365, F. & A. M. ; the Goshen 
Club, an honorary member of Cataract Engine and Hose Company No. i, and a 
member of the New York State Pharmaceutical Association. He is also secretary 
of the Orange County Chapter, Sons of the Revolution. 

BRICE L. DREW was born at Vernon, Susse.x County, X. J., March 6. 1866. 
His parents were Gilbert and Elizabeth Drew, and they had five children. Mr. 
Drew is a practical farmer, and now conducts the Eden fruit and dairy farm of 
one hundred and forty-two acres. He is a member of Warwick Lodge No. 544, 
F. & A. .M. ; Wawayanda Lodge No. 34, I. O. O. F., and Junior O. U. A. M. No. 
207. He is a member of the Glenwood Methodist Church. Politically he is inde- 
pendent. He married Miss Lillie Morehouse, of Amity, daughter of Linn and 
Emily Morehouse. Their three children are: Ernest, born June 24, 1892; Emily, 
born July 17, 1895, and Albert George, born May i, 1902. 

WILLIAM J. DUFFY, vice-president and a director of the First National Bank 
of Highland Falls, X. Y., was born in Providence, R. I., in 1867. He was edu- 
cated in the city of Rochester, N. Y., and has been a resident of Orange County 
since 1897. Mr. DufTy is endowed with characteristic New England enterprise and 
his spirit has exerted a healthy influence in public affairs at Highland Falls, where 
he is president of the Village Improvement Society. He is superintendent 
of the U. S. Government Stables at West Point and is proprietor of the entire 
livery. He is district deputy of the Knights of Columbus. His wife was formcrlv 
Miss Fanny Au, of Highland Falls. 

WALTER DUMVILLE, farmer and dairyman, was born in the town of New- 
burgh, May 9, 1843. His father, Benjamin Dumville, was a native of England 
and came to America in 1827, a few years later locating in Newburgh, where he 
married Miriam Harris. He was the first wholesale butcher in Newburgh. After 
Walter finished his education he engaged with his father in that business, and later 



830 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

conducted it alone successfully for many years. He at one time served as col- 
lector of the town of Newburgh. Mr. Dumville is a director of the Columbus 
Trust Co., also the Milk Producers' Association and the Horse Thief Detecting 
Society. July 16, 1873, he married Josephine, daughter of John and Catherine 
O'Brien, of New York City. Mr. and Mrs. Dumville are members of the Unita- 
rian Church. 

WILLIAM FULLERTON DUNNING, a member of the New York City Bar 
Association and for several years immediately preceding his death a member of its 
committee on admissions, died on April i, 1907, after an illness lasting only a few 
days. He was born in the city of New York on May 29, 1856. His father was the 
late Benjamin F. Dunning, for many years the law partner of Charles O'Conor, 
and his mother was Ruth Seely, of Orange County, New York. 

From his father Mr. Dunning inherited a predilection for the law, and doubt- 
less his early association with his father's firm helped to develop in him his high 
ideals of professional ethics. 

He was prepared for college in Dresden, Saxony, and was graduated from 
Princeton University in the class of 1877. He devoted himself with more than 
usual assiduity to his studies, and was particularly interested in the classics. He 
was graduated from the Columbia College Law School and admitted to the bar 
of this State in 1879. Upon his admission to the bar he entered the firm of Dun- 
ning, Edsall, Hart & Fowler, of which firm his father was senior partner. In 1883, 
upon the death of Mr. Hart, the firm of Dunning, Edsall & Fowler was organ- 
ized, and in 1886, upon the retirement of Mr. Edsall, the firm became Dunning & 
Fowler. Of these three firms William Fullerton Dunning was a member. In 
1900, upon the dissolution of the firm of Dunning & Fowler, Mr. Dunning joined 
the firm of Boardman, Piatt & Soley; on Mr. Soley's retirement from the firm in 
1906, the firm Boardman, Piatt & Dunning was organized and continued until No- 
vember, 1906, when Judge Morgan J. O'Brien became one of the members, the 
name being changed to O'Brien, Boardman, Piatt & Dunning. 

William Fullerton Dunning was a man of modest and retiring disposition. Al- 
though a learned and sound lawyer, he did not seek the contention and strife of 
the courts, but preferred office practice. His faithfulness and devotion to his 
clients' interests gained for him their confidence, and many of them became his 
warm friends. He had a cheerful, happy disposition. His relations with his pro- 
fessional brethren were always marked with great consideration, and while he 
jealously guarded the interests of his clients, an opposing attorney could never 
justly complain that Mr. Dunning had not shown to him the courtesy demanded 
by the most exacting professional etiquette. While not ambitious for position or 
office which would bring him prominently before the public, he was greatly inter- 
ested in his professional work and desirous that it should be well done. His re- 
lations with the various partners with whom he was associated during his career 
have always been most cordial and friendly. 

In 1883 he married Clara Frost, of New Orleans, La., and the years that followed 



BIOGRAl'IlICAL. 831 

were filkd witli donicstic happiness. His wife aiul six daughters who survive him 
mourn the loss of a kind and loving husband and a wise and aflfectionate father. 
His life is a continuous record of high ideals and work well done. He died in 
the prime of life, respected by all who knew him, and loved by those who knew 
him best. In this age of excitement and greed, such a life as his should be an 
example and an inspiration. 

THE DUXXIXG FAMILY.— General Benj. Dunning (married Isabel Wihon); 
Benjamin Franklin Dunning, Esq. (married Ruth Seely ) ; William I'ullerton Dun- 
ning, Esq. (married Clara Frost J. 

These three Dunnings were descended from an old and well-known luitjlish 
family and were closely interested in Orange County. 

General Dunning's children: Virgil, Benjamin Franklin, William T., Angeline. 

Benjamin Franklin Dunning's children: Isabel (Mrs. Thos. P. Fowler), Frank, 
William Fullerton (dead), Frederick Clark (dead), Alice (Mrs. M. Allen Starr). 

William Fullerton Dunning's children: Aline Frost (dead), Ruth Seely, Mar- 
celine Randolph, Clara Frost, Isabel Fowler, Elizabeth Belcher, Willielmine. 

r'RANK DURLAXD was born in the Yelverton Iim in tlie old village of Chester, 
X. v., on March 25, i860. The family sprang from the emigrant Jan Garretse 
Dorlandt, who came from Holland to the New Netherlands in the year 1652, set- 
tling in Brooklyn, kiter, in the year 1657, removing to Bedford, of which village he 
was for many years a commissioner. 

His father, Joseph Durland, is the great-grandson of Charles Durland, who came 
from Long Island and settled in Chester in the year 1754. 

His mother, Nancy Kingsland Board, was a daughter of Major James J. Board, 
of Boardville, X'^. J., afterward residing in Sugar Loaf valley, Chester, X. Y. 

He attended the Chester Academy until 1877, leaving school at the age of seven- 
teen, he began life s activities in Durland's store. In the year 1885 he entered the 
firm of J. Durland & Son, and on February i, 1908, he purchased the entire interest 
in the mercantile business of Iiis father, Joseph Durland. with whom he had l)een 
associated for twenty-three years. He was married April 22, 1891, to Mary Burt 
Sanford. of Warwick, N. Y., daughter of William Moore Sanford and Sarah Burt, 
who was the daughter of James Burt, for many years president of the Chester 
National Bank. By her he has two children, William Sanford Durland, born July 
13, i8q2, now a student in Nazareth Hall Military Academy, Nazareth, Pa., and 
Nancy Board Durland, born March 29, i8q8, now a student in Chester .\cademy. 

Mr. and Mrs. Durland are both members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Dur- 
land is president of its board of trustees, president of the board of trade, director of 
the Chester Telephone Co., trustee of Walton Hose Co.. treasurer of the Orange & 
Rockland Electric Co., member of Standard Lodge, No. 711. \- . & .\. M., of Monroe, 
N. Y. 

JOSEPH Dl'RL.A.XD was born on the Durland homestead, now occupied l>y his 



832 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

brother, Samuel S. Durland, March 16, 1832. He received his education at Chester 
Academy and at Bloomfield, N. J. He began business life as a clerk in Masterson's 
store at West Chester when a young man. He was a partner with his stepfather, 
James Durland, at Chester Mills, for some time. On February 1, 1859, he pur- 
chased the interest of James J. Board in the old store conducted under the name, 
Board, Pierson & Co. This new firm of Pierson, Bell & Durland continued at the 
old store until February, 1862, when his brother, Samuel S. Durland, was admitted 
into partnership with him, the other members of the firm having sold to them their 
interest. For ten years this partnership of the brothers continued successfully and 
then S. S. Durland retired from the business and Joseph continued as sole proprie- 
tor until 18S5, when Frank Durland, his son, purchased an interest in the business 
and the firm name became Durland & Son. This relation continued until February 
I, 1908, when he sold his interest to Frank Durland, the present proprietor, having 
completed 49 years of business life in the old store. 

During all his business career Joseph Durland has been a wise counsellor for his 
fellow citizens in business and political matters. This has been possible through his 
knowledge gained by keen observation and opportunities for travel which have 
enabled him to visit and study business conditions in nearly every state in the Union. 
For a number of j-ears he has served as trustee of the savings banks at Warwick 
and Goshen, and also as a director of the Durland Trust Co., of Norfolk, Nebraska. 
For twenty years he has served as a director of the Chester National Bank, and for 
two years was its president and is at present its vice-president. He was the first 
Republican supervisor for the town of Chester and served in 1867 and 1868. He 
was influential in establishing the present Union free school, and in 1869 was elected 
clerk of the first Board of Education of Chester, which position he held for seven 
years. He strongly urged the incorporation of the village of Chester in November, 
1898, and was a member of its first board of trustees. When the question of water 
for the village arose he served on the board of water commissioners which intro- 
duced the present system of water supply. In offices of trust, he has served as 
executor and administrator of many estates. In 1855 he united with the Presby- 
terian Church, of which he and Mrs. Durland are still active members. He was 
elected to the office of deacon in this church in 1889, and since 1890 has continued 
to serve the church of his choice as an elder. He was married February 25, 1857, 
to Nancy Kingsland Board, daughter of Major James J. Board. The fiftieth anni- 
versary of this happy event was fittingly celebrated. The children of this marriage 
now living are two sons, James Board, who married Sarah Andrews, and Frank, 
who married Mary B. Sanford, and two daughters, Amelia Vernon, and Nettie 
Eugenia, wife of Willi.im T. Moffatt of New York City. One daughter, Marion, 
died May 21, 1903. 

J. SEELY DURLAND was born in New York City, March 15, 1856. He is a son 
of Oscar and Matilda C. Durland. Mr. Durland's father was engaged in the milk 
business in New York City, later removing to Chester, N. Y., purchasing the Mar- 
vin property, about two miles from Chester. Here he developed a natural love for 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 833 

the country and has remained a farmer. J. Secly Diirland received his education at 
tlie dibtrict school and Chester Academy, lie married Fannie R. Hunter, of Mon- 
roe, October 26, 1894-, and two children have been born to them, Anna T., living, 
and Stanley, who died in i<S95. Mr. Durhmd is a member of the Chester Grange, 
and in politics a Republican. 

JOHN E. DURYEA, son of Samuel C. and Emily (TuthiJl) Duryea, was born 
.September 6, 1840, on the farm in the town of Crawford which his father had pur- 
chased in 1S.38. He assisted his father in the management of the farm until he 
removed to Pine Bush in November, 1905. 

Mr. Duryea's paternal ancestors were French Huguenots. Joost Duryea, the 
foimder of the family in America, came to Long Island from Holland in 1675, and 
from Jamaica, Queens Countj', Yost or George, our subject's great-great-grand- 
father, came to Orange County and settled in the town of Blooming Grove, of 
which he was a pioneer. He died in 1760 and was buried at Greycourt. His son, 
George, during the Revolution, was in active service in the cavalry department of 
the Colonial Army. He married Miss Hannah Hudson, of Goshen. Five sons and 
four daughters were born to them, of whom John, grandfather of our subject, 
married in 1800, Mary, daughter of Samuel and Jeannctte (McCurdy) Crawford, of 
the town of Montgomery. They settled on a farm near Bloomingburg in the town 
of Wailkill. Six children were born, of whom Samuel C. was the youngest. 

John E. Duryea married, in 1863, Miss Jane Frances Hunter, who died in 1883, 
leaving four daughters, Emily C, Mary F., Edna H., Anna Z. Politically Mr. 
Duryea is a Republican and has occupied a prominent place in public affairs. He 
was justice of the peace twelve years and justice of sessions four years. Socially 
he is identified with the Masonic fraternity. 

SA.MUEL T. DUSENBERRY, assistant postmaster at Tuxedo Park. N. Y.. was 
born at Stony Ford, Orange County, in 1873. He is a son of William B. and S. E. 
( Wallace) Duscnberry. He received his education at the schools of Goshen. In 
1899 Mr. Dusenberry came to Tuxedo and accepted the appointment of assistant 
postmaster. Socially he is identified with Standard Lodge, No. 711, F. & A. M. 
He married Miss Leonor Clark, of Monroe. N. Y. They hive one child, William 
Wallace. 

JOHN L. D. EAGER has been engaged in the hide and tallow business at Mont- 
gomery since 1875. He was bom in Walden in 1850. A son of Isaac L. and Fannie 
M. (Bodine) Eager. At the age of twenty he entered tl>e employ of Homer Rams- 
dell & Co., of Newburgh, where he remained eight years. On returning to Mont- 
Ljnmcry he engaged in the coal business, also conducting his hide and tallow estab- 
lishment. Mr. Eager has served as police justice twenty years and justice of the 
peace sixteen years. He now has charge of the pumping station of the Montgomery 
Water Works. He married Miss Emma Decker in 1876 and three sons have 
been born to them. Leonard, Clarence and Ray. Leonard is now in charge of his 



834 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

father's hide and taiiow plant. He had previously been employed as engineer at 
Randall's Island and engineer for the firm of Tiffany & Co., New York. 

JOSEPH C. EAGER was born August 21, 1S59, on a farm near Hamptonburgh, 
where he now resides. His father, Joseph Case Eager, died in 1903. He had been 
a town justice of the peace for thirty years, and from his dairy farm of 150. acres 
was one of the first shippers of milk to the New York market over the Erie Rail- 
road. Besides Joseph there was a daughter, Caroline, who married Cornelius Zabris- 
kie, of Newark, N. J. Joseph's education in the district school was supplemented 
by a course in the private boarding school of Prof. S. S. Hartwell, of Unionville, 
N. J. From this he returned to the farm, which has always been his home. Since 
1890 he has been station agent at Hamptonburgh for the Lehigh and Hudson Rail- 
road, and also conducted a feed business at the same station. He followed the 
political inclinations of his father and has been one of the active Democrats of his 
town. 

WILLIAM CASE EAGER, the descendant of one of the first settlers of the 
county, was born December 9, 1865, in Warwick, and died suddenly as the result 
of an accident, February 11, 1904. His parents were William C. and Mary C. Eager, 
whose children were this one son and four daughters, Mary L., Jennie, Belle and 
Fannie. The father, William C. Eager, Sr., died in 1878, April i8th. The subject of 
our sketch acquired his early education in the Warwick school, remaining in school 
until 19 years of age. He then entered the general store which was managed and 
owned by h's mother until he reached the age of 21, at which time he assumed con- 
trol of the store and managed it successfully until his death. In 1899 he married 
Hattie J. Aldrich. a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Still, of Warwick. He was 
one of the most popular young men of Warwick, having a warm heart, a sunny 
nature and much natural magnetism, seasoned with genial humor and entire hon- 
esty. It was said of him that he had not one enemy, and was esteemed by the 
people of all classes. He was fond of athletic sports and all lively diversions. He 
was pitcher in the champion baseball team, a leading official in the Warwick Athletic 
Association, an enthusiastic hunter and fisher and lover of wild nature, liked 
music and was at one tim.e a player in the village band. He was so good and popu- 
lar a fireman that he rose to be foreman of Excelsior Hose and then to be chief 
of the fire department, to which he was elected three times and refused to be re- 
elected. He was once elected town collector, and once nominated for president of 
the village, but resolutely declined t!ie nomination. 

On the day of his funeral all the business places in the village were closed, the 
whole fire department and the members of the Warwick Club attended in a body, 
and one of the largest gatherings ever seen in the Reformed church listened to the 
funeral services. 

His earliest ancestor in Orange County lived on a farm near what is now called 
Neelytown, and some of his ancestors still reside there. His great uncle was Samuel 
W. Eager, the first historian of the county. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 835 

IHOMAS HORTON EASION was born January 25, 1853, on the homestead 
farm near Otisville. He attended the district school, and assisted in the general 
store operated by his father at Otisville for many years. He engaged with the 
Erie Railroad as a brakcman and was promoted to conductor, serving from 1868 to 
1882, after which he returned to the farm, where he has since remained. He was 
married to Miss Frances N., daughter of Dimmick and Sylvia A. (Cadwell) Wilkin, 
Marcli 14, 1875. ^y this union there were three children born, all living. Harriet 
D., born February 11, 1877; Nellie W., born June 14, 1881 ; Sylvia E., born Septem- 
ber 10, 1885. Harriet is the wife of Henry A. Holley, of Otisville, and they have 
tb.rce children, Henry E., born August 26, 1898; Elizabeth C, born April 30, 1901 ; 
James Easton, born September 20, 1905. Nellie W. is the wife of Joseph K. Corwin. 
They have two children, S. Gilbert, born July 19, 1905, and Francis Horton, born 
March 2, 1907. In politics Mr. Easton is a democrat, and has served as inspector 
of elections since 1884. His father, James Easton, was born January 15, 1824, at 
Milford, Pa. February 24, 1S49, he married Hannah E. Corwin, of New Vernon, 
and three children were born to them, Nellie R., born November 21, 1849, married 
Schuyler D. Frazer, of Otisville; Ada, born February 23, 1855, died March, 1856. 
He was at Dunkirk, N. Y., in 1851, when the opening of the Erie Railroad occurred. 
In 1853 iie returned to Howells and opened a general store, continuing there until 
1861. In 1863 he went to Saginaw, Michigan, remaining there one year, returning to 
Orange County in 1864, opening a general store at Otisville, which in May, 1884, 
was destroyed by fire. He immediately rebuilt and continued until 1905, when he 
retired after a career of fifty years of active life. 

ALVA WISNER EDSALL, a lifelong resident of the town of Warwick, was 
born at Edenville, N. Y., January 8, i86r, and after attending the public schools com- 
menced the study of dentistry at the age of eighteen years, graduating from the 
Pliiladelphia Dental College. In 1883 took up the practice of his chosen profession 
in Warwick, N. Y., where he has since been actively engaged in business, forming 
a partnership with Dr. J. H. Wood in 1884, which partnership still exists. A son 
of Thomas S. and Phoebe Miller Edsall, he represents the seventh generation of a 
long line of English ancestry, who w'ere among the early settlers of New Amster- 
dam (now New York City), in 1637, they being large owners of timber lands where 
Hackensack, N. J., is now located. They afterwards moved to Northern New Jer- 
sey about the time the DeKays settled there, and numerous branches of the family 
are now to be found in this locality. Dr. Edsall was married, in 1891, to Caroline 
Welling, of Warwick, having a daughter and son, Marian and Maurice, aged 
respectively twelve and five years. He is a member of the board of education and 
interested in Warwick's various business enterprises. 

JOHN EGAN, retired dairyman, Ncwhurgh, N. Y., was born in 1847 on a farm 
in West Newburgh. In 1876 he embarked in the milk and cream business and in 
1883 his trade had assumed such proportions that he erected a creamery on First 
-~trcct, where the milk was received, which he equipped with modern appliances. 



836 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

He retired from the dairy business a few years ago and now devotes his attention to 
his e.N tensive real estate holdings. 

EDWARD R. ELLIOTT, M.D., of Montgomery, N. Y., was born in Dutchess 
County in 1S54, a son of Rev. Jos. and Harriet (Andrews) Elliott. His education 
was obtained at Claverack Institute and Stamford Seminary. He graduated in 
medicine in 1S74 from the University of New York and has enjoyed an extensive 
practice in Montgomery since 1878. Dr. Elliott is a member of the County and 
State Medical Societies and the Newburgh Bay Medical Society. He is also identi- 
fied with the Masonic fraternity. He is a director of the Montgomery National 
Bank. Dr. Elliott married Miss Lydia Wright and a son, Clyde, has been born to 
them. 

E. J. EMERSON, cashier of the Montgomery National Bank, has been a resident 
of Orange County for some twenty years. He is a native of Sullivan County and 
began life by entering the employ of Albert Bull, wholesale druggist of Middletown, 
where he remained twelve years. Mr. Emerson's banking experience covers a 
period of six years, four of which were spent with the First National and the 
Merchants National Bank of Middletown. He accepted his present position in 1905. 

CHARLES A. EVANS. — Soldier, newspaper man, ranchman and farmer suc- 
cessively the career of Charles A. Evans has been one of strenuous activity and 
varied experience. He was born September 11, 1845, in New York City, obtained 
his early education in New York schools, and when a mere boy, sixteen years old, 
enlisted in New York with the I2tli Regular Infantry for service in the Civil War. 
This was in May, 1862. He could only be accepted as a drummer boy, but soon 
exchanged drum for musket, and carried it for three years. He was wounded and 
taken prisoner in the battle of Cedar Mountain, and was confined on Belle Island 
about two months. Communications which he wrote for Northern papers pleased 
the editor of the Chicago Times, and in the fall of 18G5 the young soldier was 
invited to join the staff of that paper. He remained with it until 1878, and then 
getting the Western fever, went to a point in Southern Kansas, on the Walnut 
River, and established a ranch on which he and his family lived until 1883. Then, 
in order that his children might have opportunities for education, he returned to 
Chicago and resumed work on the Times, and after a little was appointed its New 
York correspondent. So he again became a resident of the metropolis, and was 
correspondent of the Chicago Times and St. Louis Republican five years, when 
trouble with his eyes caused him to quit newspaper work. In 1888 he came to 
Orange County and purchased the farm near Howells on which he lives. In igoo 
he purchased at Mt. Vernon another farm, and now manages both. In 1895 he was 
supervisor for the town of Wallkill, and against much opposition pushed through 
the board the resolution offering a reward for the capture of Charles H. Rogers, 
the murderer of the Olney brothers and Alice Ingerick. In 1907 he was the Demo- 
cratic candidate for member of assembly. Mr. Evans was married to Miss Jennie 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 837 

E. Morrill, of Brandon, Vt., in 1867. They have four children — a son living in 
Ciiicago. Mrs. F. L. Andrews, of Whitehall, Miss Frances, a graduate of Cornell 
University, and Austin, now a student in Cornell. 

GEORGE W. EVANS, a prominent citizen of the town of Crawford, resides at 
Bullville and carries on an extensive trade in cattle and horses. He is a son of 
John A. and Marie (Walker) Evans, and was born at Walker Valley, Ulster 
County. Although but in his 'teens he went to the front during the Civil War, en- 
listing in the 56th Regiment. He was discharged in 1865 at Charlestown, S. C. 
On his return home he engaged with his father in the meat business at F<ullville, 
in which he continued fourteen years, and then began trading in cattle. 

Mr. Evans was united in marriage with Miss Anna L. Relyea, January 6, 1869, 
a daughter of Christopher and Sarah B. (Sprague) Relyea. Socially he is identi- 
fied with Hott'man Lodge, No. 412, F. and A. M... of Middletown, N. Y. 

WILLIAM EVANS, now living in retirement at Westtown, N. Y., has been 
prominently identilied with the commercial and financial development of Middle- 
town. He is a son of William and Rosetta (Corwin) Evans and was born at the 
homestead in the town of Minisink. His mercantile career began in 1849, when, 
under the firm name of Little & Evans, a dry goods store was started at Middle- 
town. At the end of eight years Mr. Evans continued the business alone for four 
years, when Mr. M. D. Stivers became his partner as Evans & Stivers. In 1864 Mr. 
Evans sold out his interest and took up the organization of the First National 
Bank, of which he was elected president. After a period of eleven years he resigned 
the office, retaining his directorship. In 1866 he assisted in the organization 
of the Middletown, Unionville and Water Gap R. R., and at his suggestion the rail- 
road was given that name. He was a director of the company and served as its 
treasurer a number of years. In 1874 he engaged for two years in the manufacture 
of horse clothing. He then went to New York and was engaged for four years in 
the real estate and insurance business. He then retired from active pursuits and 
traveled extensively in company with his daughter. 

.Mr. Evans married Miss Julia Denton, daughter of Theodore B. Denton, of Den- 
ton, N. Y. Two children were born. His daughter is now the wife of Mr. Albert 
H. Horton, of Johnson, N. Y., and his son, Sydney Denton, is engaged in business 
in Salt Lake City. 

THE FABRIKOID COMPANY of Newburph is among the most important 
industries of Orange County. It was established in 1902 and incorporated under 
the present title with the following oflicials: John .'Kspinwall, president; George H. 
May, secretary and treasurer; J. Kearney Rodgcrs, general sales manager. The 
product of the plant is chielly an imitation leather called Fabrikoid, which finds a 
ready market all over the world. Bronze paint and lacquers are also manufactured. 
The growth of this business has been very rapid and the plant now covers twenty- 
five acres and consists of forty-nine buildings. 



838 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

THE FANCHER FAMILY. — Elias Fancher, who was born in Darien, Conn., 
January ig, 1793, canie to Warwick in early boyhood with his father, who bought 
the Van Houghton farm with the stone house, which is still standing, was built 
in 1795. He married jMiss Sarah Jones, who was born in Warwick September 10, 
1795- They had eight children, only two of whom are living, Darius and Julia. 
The latter, born December 15, 1831, is the wife of Wisner Wood, of Paterson, N. J. 
Darius was born March 22, 1836, and has always been identified with agriculture 
since he left the district school. He married Sarah Catharine Sayer, of Warwick. 
The names of their live children are, Edwin, Sayer, Clinton W., Frank and Lillie. 
Edwin is a practicing physician in Middletown, N. Y., and Sayer is in a wholesale 
grocer}^ in the same place. Clinton conducts a dry goods store and Frank is in the 
feed business in Goshen. T>illie is the w-ife of Wilham A. Bradner, of Warwick. 
Their father, Dariu.s, remains the good farmer and esteemed citizen that he has 
been since his young manhood. 

HENRY H. FARNUM, of Port Jervis, member of the board of supervisors, was 
born and educated in this city. He is a son of Peter E. and Mary R. (Conkling) 
Farnum,and conducts an extensive business in real estate and insurance. Following 
the incorporation of Port Jervis as a city in 1907. Mr. Farnum was nominated and 
elected on the Republican ticket a member of the board of supervisors. He takes 
an active interest in public affairs of Orange County, is a member of the Deer Park 
Club, of which he is a treasurer. Mr. Farnum married Ruth Smith, of Port Jervis, 
and they have one son, Henry H., Jr. 

JACOB R. FEAGLES was born on the Feagles homestead March 31, 1863, and 
since his school days has been a farmer. His 5rst wife's maiden name was Miss 
Belle Hyatt, of Warwick, and they were married December 5, 1889. His second 
marriage was to Mrs. Emma J. Vealy, of Amity, October 25, 1893. Five children 
have been the fruit of the second marriage— Jacob H., George W., Mary Elizabeth, 
Flenry Barney and Emma. Mr. Feagles has been on his present farm twenty-one 
years, and is an extensive peach grower and a dairy farmer. He belongs to Amity 
Grange No. looi. 

JDR. JAMES FR.AlNCIS FERGUSON, founder of the widely known sanitarium 
"^Falkirk,"' was born in New York City October 10, 183Q, and died at his home near 
Central Valley, Orange County, N- Y., January 6, 1904. He graduated from the 
medical department of the University of New York in 1861 and from Bellevue 
Medical College in 1862. 

Dr. Ferguson served with the Second New York Militia during the Civil War. 
At Blackburn's Ford, at the first battle of Bull Run, he was wounded and taken to 
Libby Prison, but was later released on parole through the efforts of his mother. 
As major and surgeon of the 165th New York Volunteers (Second Duryea Zou- 
aves), he was again mustered into the service September 9, 1862, served with Gen- 
eral Banks in Louisiana, was present at the battle of Pine Stores, and at the siege of 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 839 

Port Hudson was in charge of a held liospital. He was afterward provost surgeon 
in New Orleans and served in the campaigns in the Teche country, and was dis- 
charged at Franklin, La., in 1S64. He was brevelted lieutenant-colonel of New 
York Volunteers. 

The professional appointments of Dr. Ferguson were as follows : Attending sur- 
geon, Bellevue, 1870-1871; visiting surgeon to Blackwell's Island Hospital, 1872- 
1892; visiting physician to the Hospital for Nervous Diseases, 1886-1892, and con- 
sulting physician of the Charity (now City) Hospital, from 1892 to the time of his 
death. 

Dr. Ferguson \\as a member of the Bellevue Hospital Alumni, the Medical Society 
of the County of New York, the New York Academy of Medicine, New York 
Neurological Society, Military Order of ;he Loyal Legion, the Army and Navy 
Club, Lotus Club, Kane Lodge, No. 45^, F. & A. M., Jerusalem Chapter, No. 8, 
R. A. M., Coeur de Lion Commandery, No. 23, K. 1., and a thirty-third degree 
Scottish Rite Mason. 

JOliN H. FLANAGAN, who for many years has been extensively engaged in the 
cultivation of choice vegetables for the New York market, has achieved much suc- 
cess in this line of business. He was born in Ireland in 1843, came to America in 
1851, and seven years later engaged in truck farming. Mr. Flanagan is actively 
interested in business affairs at Newburgh. He was one of the promoters of the 
Columbus Trust Company and has been a member of the board of directors since 
the organization of this solid financial institution. He has also acquired much real 
estate in Newburgh and has served four years as a member of the board of public 
works. 

Mr. Flanagan was luiited in marriage with Miss Shields and seven children were 
born to them. 

CHARLES T. FORD. — Among the citizens of Orange County who by their own 
efforts have achieved unusual success, Mr. Ford, of Central Valley, occupies a 
prominent place. He is a son of Charles T. and Martha (Weygant) Ford and was 
born at Southfield in 1844. He attended public and private schools, supplemented 
by a course at Claverack Institute and Poughkeepsie Business College. In 1867 
he was manager of the iron works at Southfield and four years later was conduct- 
ing a charcoal furnace in Michigan. Losing heavily in the panic of 1873 he re- 
turned to Orange County and was appointed station agent at Turners. In 1881 he 
began his career as a railroad contractor, his first work being for the West Shore 
Railroad, excavating and building the retaining wall through the city of Newburgh 
between North and South streets. From Newburgh he went to Albany, and thence 
to Rochester, building five miles of road. He received the contract for grading 
on the Port Jervis Railroad from Rhodcsdale to Huguenot, and also laid the track 
and ballasted the entire line. His next work was building the North Dam of 
Tuxedo Park, after which he graded eleven miles of the Baltimore and Eastern 



840 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Shore Railroad. Mr. Ford continued construction for many years for various rail- 
roads. 

Since 1898 he has personally superintended the construction of all improvements 
for Mr. E. H. Harriman on his Arden property, including the erection of his man- 
sion, not yet completed. During this time there were constructed a drainage canal 
three miles long and the course of the Ramapo straightened from Turners to 
Arden. Not the least of these improvements has been the Panchot system of for- 
estry, the building of an incline railway 3,300 feet long from Arden to Mr. Harri- 
man's house and twenty-five miles of roads for driving about the estate. 

Mr. Ford has also built over one hundred miles of state roads in Orange County 
and has charge of maintaining of all the state roads in the county limited by yearly 
appropriations. 

Mr. Ford is a director on the board of the Arden Farms Dairy Co., and as Mr. 
Harriman's confidential man here his duties are multitudinous. The Arden prop- 
erty comprises some 20,000 acres of land and there are 650 men employed thereon. 

In 1868 Mr. Ford married Miss Josephine McKelvey. Three children were 
born, J. Barlow, Bertha and Harriet Louise. 

Active in republican politics, Mr. Ford is a recognized leader in public affairs 
of his town and county. 

HENRY T. FORD, merchant and postmaster at Central Valley, N. Y., was born 
in 1866, a son of Benjamin and Frances C. (Denniston) Ford. After finishing his 
schooling he conducted a store at Woodbury for six years, and in 1897 purchased 
the grocery business of George D. Wood at Central Valley, which he has continued 
with much success. Mr. Ford was appointed postmaster July 15, 1899. 

WILLIAM FOSTER, retired manufacturer and prominent citizen of Newburgh, 
was born in England in 1841. He was engaged as a school teacher in his native 
country for a period of five years, and in 1867 came to America as selling agent for 
James Taylor, who was subsequently proprietor of the Newburgh Woolen Mills. 
He continued in this capacity until 1888, vv'hen upon the death of James Taylor, Mr. 
Foster and James S. Taylor purchased the plant and conducted the business with 
m^ch success until igo2. The establishment was then incorporated as the Stroock 
Plush Company, Mr. Foster holding the office of vice-president. He was also vice- 
president of the Stroock Felt Company tmtil 1906. He has been a director of the 
National Bank of Newburgh since 1895. 

Mr. Foster takes an active part in promoting the welfare of Newburgh's chari- 
table institutions. He is president of the Associated Charities, trustee of the home 
for the Friendless, and member of the board of managers of St. Luke's Hospital. 
In religious afifiliations he is identified with the Church of the Good Shepherd, 
holding the office of warden. 

Mr. Foster married Mary Ann Taylor and seven children were born to them, of 
whom four are living. 



BIOGRAl'lllCAL. 841 

ANSOX J. FOWLER, attorney of Waldcn and Xcwhurgli, was born in Waldeii, 
N. v., in 1878. He was educated at New Paltz Normal School and was engaged in 
the mercantile business at Walden, five years. He read law ii^. Nevvburgh, and was 
admitted to the bar in 1905. 

Mr. Fowler is president of the Electric Light Co., Walden, and a director of the 
Walden National Bank. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and L O. O. P. 
He is a son of Nicholas J. and Elizabeth (Millspaugh) Fowler. 

NICHOLAS JAXSEN FOWLER, of English and Welsh descent, son of Peter 
Hill Fowler and Anna Jansen Fowler, was born on the ancestral homestead near 
the village of Montgomery, N. Y., May 9, 1847. He attended the famous Mont- 
gomery Academy, also the Monticello Academy. After graduating, he was associ- 
ated with G. Fred Wiltsie, in business at Newburgh-on-Hudson. In 1868, Mr. 
Fowler located at Walden, N. Y., opening the first hardware store in the village, 
which he continued for thirty years. 

He was the original organizer of the Wallkill Valley Electric Light and Power 
Company, of which for many years he was president; was one of the original in- 
corporators of the National Bank of Walden and one of its officers until recent 
years. For many years he has been vice-president of the W'alden Savings Bank ; is 
connected with the First Reformed Church of Walden and Wallkill Lodge, F. and 
A. M.. of which he was treasurer for over twenty years. He was a charter member 
of the Wallkill Valley Farmers' Association, serving many years as its treasurer 
and doing much to establish it. 

Mr. Fowler married Miss Elizabeth Millspaugh, daughter of the late Joseph G. 
Millspaugh, of Walden, N. Y., May 29, 1872, Three sons were born to them. The 
eldest, Joseph M., of Kingston, an attorney of distinction, who has represented his 
district in the legislative hall at Albany; Anson J., an attorney having offices at 
Newburgh and Waldcn, who enjoys a large legal business; Fred, who has been 
highly successful in the electric light and telephone interests of Walden and adjacent 
villages. ]\Ir. Fowler has been confined to hi? home for several years. 

THOMAS POWELL FOWT,ER, president of the New York, Ontario and WV-st- 
ern Railway Company, was born in Newburgh, C;ctober 26, 1851. His father, Isaac 
Sebring Fowler, was a descendant of Isaac Fowler, who settled near that city in 
1747. His mother, Mary I.udiow Powell, was the daughter of Robert Ludlow 
Powell, who was the son of Thomas Powell, long prominent in the affairs of the 
Empire State, and one of the most successful men of his time. 

Mr Fowler's childhood was spent at Newburgh. He received his early education 
at Siglar's School, Newburgh, and College Hill, Pougbkecpsie. after which he 
studied abroad for nearly two years, spending mo>t of his time in Germany. Re- 
turning to New York, he entered the banking house of Morton, Bliss & Co.. then 
Morton, Burns & Co, where he acquired a general knowledge of financial affairs. 
He studied law under Prof. Theo. D. Dwight, at the Columbia College law school, 



842 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

entering the junior class of that institution October 21, 1872. He graduated in May, 
1874, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Laws. 

In 1881 Mr. Fowler was elected director of the Chenango and Allegheny Rail- 
road. In 1884 we find him a director of the West Pennsylvania and Chenango 
Connecting Railroads. On March 15 of the same year he was appointed receiver of 
the Chenango and Allegheny Railroad and the Mercer Coal and Iron Co. On March 
31 following Mr. Fowler was elected director of the New York, Ontario and West- 
ern. In 1886 he was elected president. He has also served as director in the boards 
of the East Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia Railroad and other corporations. 

Mr. Fowler occupies his country place in the village of Warwick during the 
summer months. In 1876 he married Isabelle, eldest daughter of Benjamin F. Dun- 
ning, an eminent New York lawyer and for many years a partner of Charles 
O'Conor. 

WILLIAM J. FOWLF.R, a prominent and progressive fruit farmer of the town 
of Newburgh, resides at the homestead where his grandfather, Peter V. B. Fowler, 
was born in 1800. He is a son of Henry D. and Anna (Du Bois) Fowler, who for 
many years cultivated this valuable property and were prominent in church and 
social affairs. W. J. Fowler was born in 1862. He attended the schools of Middle- 
hope and then took the English course at Tivoli Military School, from which he 
graduated. He spent two years at Newburgh in Eli Hasbrouck's dry goods estab- 
lishment, and in 1881 purchased his farm of forty-two acres and undertook the 
cultivation of fruit, in which he has been uniformly successful. In 1905 he pur- 
chased his father's farm of lifty-six acres. Mr. Fowler was school trustee twelve 
years, highway commissioner eight years, and has served as town collector. He is 
treasurer of Cronomer Valley Grange. 

JAMES FULLAGAR, contractor and builder, Newburgh, N. Y., was born in 
England in iS?8. Attended the schools at Headcorn and learned the carpenter's 
trade there. He lived for a number of years in the West End of London, where he 
and his brother conducted an artists' lodging house. In 1850 he sailed for America, 
coming directly to Newburgh, where he engaged in his trade with his uncle, with 
whom he later formed a partnership which existed four years. He then engaged in 
real estate and building on his own account, and in the period from 1855 to 1902 
erected for himself one hundred homes in Newburgh. He has since disposed of 
these with the exception of thirty houses. Mr. Fullagar is possessed of deep religious 
convictions and for forty years has devoted a portion of his time to preaching the 
gospel. 

December 20, 1S60, he married Miss Elizabeth Hoase, of New Windsor. Four 
children have been born to them, three of whom are still living. 

NICHOL.AS I-. FURMAN was born at Spring Valley, town of Ramapo, Rock- 
land County, N. Y., March 29, 1835, and died at Warwick, N. Y., April 3, 1908. He 
was in school and on the farm until eighteen years of age, when he engaged in the 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 843 

lumber business. His railroad career began as a switchman for the Erie Railroad 
at Sufifern, N. Y., where he was soon promoted from track to train service. In i860 
he went to Port Jcrvis, N. Y., was in Xewburgh a year, and in 1869 moved to 
Warwick, N. Y., continMing in train service until 1882. In that year he was assist- 
ant superintendent for a short time, and superintendent of the Lehigh & Hudson 
from 1882 to 1893. ^Ir. Furman has been an influential Republican. He was a 
member of the Republican county coniniittec three years during the McKinlcy 
administration, and was a delegate to the state convention that nominated the late 
Governor Higgins. He was a member of Port Jervis Lodge, No. 328, F. & A. M., 
Warwick Chapter, No. 186, and Delaware Commandery, No. 44. He was president 
of the V/arwick Cemetery Association, second vice-president of the Warwick Sav- 
ings Bank, and, in general terms, a wide-awake, helpful and highly esteemed citizen. 
He attended the Reformed Dutch Church.. Mr. Furman's first wife was Rachel A. 
Westervelt, who died in 1872. His second wife was Mary E. Hynard, of Warwick. 
He has had no children. 

FR.\NCIS K. GAFFNEY was born in New York City in 1871. At the age of 
seventeen he became the youngest fireman, probably, on the New York & New Haven 
Railroad. After stoking over its rails for a year or more, he was placed in charge of 
a switch engine in the yard. He left the railroad and went at stationary engineering 
in New York City for three years. 7hen he accepted a position in Jacksonville, 
Fla., and set up two engines for the Street Railroad Co., thus driving out the old 
mule tramway from the city of Jacksonville. At the completion of this southern 
plant he returned to New York and assisted at the erection of the large Allis 
engines for the Lexington Avenue cable road. From there he was ordered to 
Detroit to assist at the building of the plant of the Detroit Citizens' Street Railway. 
He was then employed as engineer of the plant after it was completed, later as chief 
engineer in charge. This plant was at that time one of Ihe largest in the West. 
After two years services here, in which time he was married, he resigned and came 
east, accepted a position with the Kingston Consolidated Traction Co. as chief engin- 
eer. He was in this position for five years, then accepted a position as chief engineer 
for the Queens Borough Gas & Electric Co., New York City, also in charge of the 
new construction at this plant. After the completion of this new work he went in 
the employ of the Floy Engineering Co., of New York, and took charge of the 
electrical end of the construction of a new hydro-electric plant on the Nevcrsink 
River. At the completion of this work he went with the Public Service Corpora- 
tion of New Jersey as chief of their Morristown Division. He was then employed 
as electrical construction expert for the New York & New Jersey Tile Co., and 
is now identified with the Orange County Lighting Co. Under his management 
the plant has largely improved. 

WILLIAM T. G.\LL.\W.\Y was born in the town of Newburgh, Orange Countv 
N. Y., August 13, 1826. He attended the district school in Newburgh and at an 
early age went on the farm and has always been identified in agricultural pursuits. 



844 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

His father was Zachariah D. and mother Catherine (Thompson) Callaway. Mr. 

Callaway operated a hotel at Scotchtown and. Circleville for several years, and 
also one in Minnesota. 

He married Elizabeth Fondy, of Montgomery, who is still living. To this 

union were born four children. Albert died in infancy, William S., Abraham and 

Mary K., wife of James Hamm, of Brooklyn, N. Y., died in 1907. In politics Mr. 
Callaway is a Democrat. 

IRA M. GARDNER was born at Johnson, Orange County, December 20, 1883. 
His parents were Merit H. C. Gardner (deceased), and Belle (Howell) Gardner. 
He attended country schools at Stewarttown and Westtown during his early years ; 
later, having removed to Middletown, he entered the public schools of that city, 
graduating with the class of 1903. 

He studied law in the office of Henry W. and Russell Wiggins until October, 
1904, when he entered the New York Law School, graduating in 1906, and being 
admitted to the bar in the same year. 

He has spent one year in practice in New York City, connected with the Lawyers' 
Title Insurance Company. 

SAMUEL H. GARISS, ex-president of the village of Port Jervis, was born in 
Sussex County, N. J., in 1849, and died at his home, December 10, 1907. At the age 
of nineteen he came to Tri-States and entered the employ of W. A. Drake as book- 
keeper. During the twenty-two years that he occupied this position he was able to 
conduct a livery business in partnership with Hiram Marion, also operating a grist 
and saw mill in Flatbrookville. From 1884 to 1888 he was postmaster of Tri-States. 
In 1890 Mr. Gariss came to Germantown and established a grocery store. In 1901 
he retired from this business and it became the property of his son, Samuel Emmet 
Gariss and S. G. Blackman. 

Politically Mr. Gariss was a staunch Democrat; he served as trustee of Port 
Jervis village and in 1903 was elected village president and re-elected in 1905. He 
was elected a member of the board of supervisors in T907 by a large majority and 
would have assumed his duties January i, 1908. He was one of the elders of the 
.Second Reformed Church since its organization. 

In 187S Mr. Gariss married Charity Estelle Cole, and they were the parents of 
t\\o children, Samuel Emmet and Olive Zadie. 

ASAHEL B. GARRISON, dealer in coal, feed, farm implements, etc., at Walden. 
N. Y., is numbered among the progressive young business men of Orange County. 
He is a son of Gerow and Elnora (Seymour) Garrison, residents of the town of 
Newburgh, vvliere Asahel B. was born in 1884. His education was obtained at 
Claverack Institute and Hackettstown Seminary. The business to which Mr. Gar- 
rison succeeded was established by Taylor & Bateman early in the 70's. They were 
followed by Hasbrouck & Sloac, who disposed of their interests to Mr. Garrison 
January i, IQ07. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 845 

JOHN Y. GEROW, son of Ju^tis Coolcy and Phoebe H. (Young) Gerow, was 
born in 1856 in Ulster County. N. Y. When he was three years of age his parcnis 
removed to the Thomas Pope farm in the town of New Windsor, Orange County. 
It was here John Y. grew to manhood, aiding his father on the farm. He is now 
the owner of the Pope farm of 170 acres, the Barnet farm of 125 acres and the 
David Wright farm of 100 acres at Washingtonvillc, where he has resided since 
1904. Mr. Gcrow is senior member of the firm of Gerow & Felter, large cattle 
dealers, .-^s past master of Pomona Grange Mr. Gerow enjoys a wide acquaintance 
throughout the state, and the flourishing condition of that organization in Orange 
County to-day is largely due to his untiring efforts as an organizer and promoter, 
demonstrating clearly to the farmer wherein he can better his condition. A review 
of the Grange in Orange County, which appears elsewhere in this wnrk, was fur- 
nished by Mr. Gerow. 

JOSEPH C. GEROW, a representative citizen of the town of Blooming Grove, 
was born in the town of Hamptonburgh, Orange County, in 1854. He is the young- 
est son of the late Elias and Sarah M. (Cooper) Gerow. The ancestors of the Gerow 
family settled in Plattekill, Ulster County, N. Y. Gilbert H. Gerow, grandfather of 
Joseph C, was the first of that name whose birth occurred in Orange County. His 
parents had located on what is known as the Crawford farm in the town of Bloom- 
ing Grove. It was here that Gilbert H. grew to manhood and married Annie 
Cooley. Seven children were born to them, of whom Elias was the eldest. He was 
born in 1813 and lived to the advanced age of ninety-two years. He resided for a 
time in Hamptonburgh, but most of his life was spent in his native town, where he 
was successfully engaged in farming. Joseph C. Gerow, after finishing his studies 
at public and select schools, remained on the farm assisting his father. His farm of 
150 acres is located in one of the best agricultural regions of Orange County. He 
deals extensively in agricultural implements, wind mills, etc. By appointment of 
the court he has charge of the George Washington Tnthill estate. He married 
Miss Jennie, daughter of Rev. Warren Hathaway, and they have eight children 
living. Their son, Percy, assists his father in the management of his business. As 
school trustee Mr. Gerow has been active in promntincr educational interests in the 
town of Blooming Grove. 

THOMAS B. GIBSON, who is serving his third term as postmaster of the vil- 
age of Walden, was born in Ncwburgh, N. Y., in 1859; a son of Thomas and 
Sarah (Eager) Gibson. He learned the tailor's trade and in 1883 accepted the 
position of cutter for the firm of Wooster & Stoddard at Walden. In 1895 he was 
elected town clerk and re-elected in 1897, resigning to accept the postmastorship 
under President McKinlcy's administration. He has been twice reappointed by 
President Roosevelt. He is a member of the Republican County Committee and 
active in promoting the interest of his party. Socially Mr. Gibson is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity and the Order of American Mechanics. 



846 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

WILLIAM H. GILLESPIE, of Walden, is a descendant of one of Orange 
County's old families. He was born May 28, 1855, a son of Renwick and Caro- 
line Augusta (Smith) Gillespie and is engaged in the cultivation of the farm which 
was a portion of the Gatehouse patent. This farm contains the trotting course 
and part of the land has been divided into building lots. Renwick Gillespie, who 
died in 1904 in his eightieth year, was one of Walden's most respected and influ- 
ential citizens. He was born in the town of Montgomery, a son of Abram Gilles- 
pie and grandson of Samuel Gillespie, who with his father David came from Scot- 
land and settled near Pine Bush, Orange County, previous to the Revolutionary 
war. David Smith, who was the first settler on the Gatehouse patent, was grand- 
father of Mr. Renwick Gillespie's wife, and in 1859 Renwick Gillespie purchased 
seventy-three acres of this land and erected a commodious home. He is sur- 
vived by his wife and three children. 

W. STANTON GLEASON, M.D., was born at Sag Harbor, L. I., July 24, i860; 
academic education at Williston Seminary, East Hampton, Mass., and at Amherst 
College; graduate University of New York, 1866; he began practice, Newburgh, 
N. Y., 1887 ; member County, Newburgh Bay and State Medical Societies ; Amer- 
ican Medical Association and New York Academy of Medicine. Attending phy- 
sician St. Luke's Hospital; consulting physician Highland Hospital; president 
Board Pension Examining Surgeons; member Masonic fraternity and Knights 
Templar; ex-member Newburgh Board of Education. He is a son of Rev. W. H. 
Gleason, D.D., for several years pastor of American Reformed Church, Newburgh. 
In 1888 Dr. Gleason married Grace, daughter of the late Senator J. W. Hoysradt, 
of Hudson, N. Y. He has one child, Charles B. Gleason, born June 22, 1900. 

J. OGDEN GOBLE was born May 30, 1865, on the homestead farm, one mile 
from Florida. His father was William Timelo and mother Jane Miller. There 
was one child, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Coble's father died February 19, 
1883, and his mother died October 3, 1905. J. Ogden attended the Washington 
Academy and Seward Institute, and at the age of eighteen, upon the death of his 
father, took charge of the home farm, which he has since conducted. He mar- 
ried Miss Carrie Stevens, of Florida, April 17, 1889. They had one child, who 
died in infancy. Mr. Goble has served as inspector of election for a period of 
twenty-three years. He was master of Florida Grange No. 1053 for two years 
and is now its secretary. 

CHARLES T. GOODRICH, born Newburgh, N. Y., December 5, 1846; learned 
machinist's trade in Washington Iron Works, and engaged for a time with Erie 
Railroad in various positions. In 1865 was victim of railroad wreck, which phys- 
ically disabled him for life. Studied telegraphy and was employed by the West- 
ern Union Co. in New York, Newburgh and elsewhere. Has acted as correspond- 
ent for New York dailies for many years and also connected with local papers. 
Since 1870 Mr. Goodrich has been engaged in real estate and fire insurance busi- 



KK xiRArillCAL. 847 

iiess, and iiiKrcstcd in several local l)usincss institutions. He is prominently iden- 
tified with Knights of Pythias. In 1X81 he married llattie !•-., daughter of Capt. 
Isaac Jenkinson. 

HOX. LOUIS F. GOODSELL, of Highland Falls, who was State senator from 
the Twenty-third Xew York District, i^y8 to 1906, w'as born January 30, 1846. 
His sducation was obtained at Tracey's (now Holbrook's) Military Academ\-, at 
Sing Sing, N. Y. While at school and but seventeen years of age, Mr. Goodsell 
enlisted in Company F, Forty-seventh New York Volunteers, and wxnt to war. 
He was mustered out with the regiment, August 30, 1865. He then re-entered 
school, and in May, 1867, graduated from the Poughkeepsie Business College. 

After spending two years in Omaha, Xeb., he was a resident of Xewburgh from 
1869 to 1878. He spent five years in Savannah, Ga., and in 1885 was engaged in 
the oil business in Chicago, and the lumber business in Ottumwa, Iowa. He dis- 
posed of his interests in both places in 1887 to his partners and returned to his 
native town. 

Early in life ^Nlr. Goodsell became a firm believer in the principles of the Re- 
publican party, and has always fought with the greatest enthusiasm for the party's 
success at the polls. His superior ability as a political leader soon became recog- 
nized. He was a member of the Board of Supervisors eighteen years, and in 1894 
was elected a member of assembly from the First District of Orange County. 
He was re-elected to the Assembly in 1S95, 1896 and 1897. In 1898 he was elected 
State senator from the Twenty-third District, and was re-elected to that office in 
1900, 1902 and 1904. 

Mr. Goodsell's career as a legislator was eminently successful. A tireless worker, 
he devoted his efforts to furthering the interests of this district. Since his re- 
tirement from political life, he has cheerfully extended a helping hand to repub- 
lican aspirants for public office. Mr. Goodsell married Miss Frances A. Parry, and 
two children, Harry and Edith, were born, both residents of Highland Falls. 

EDGAR M. GORDOX, of the hardware firm of Malven & Gordon, of Port Jer- 
vis, N. Y., was born December 22, 1850, at Cuddebackville, Orange County, X. Y. 
He obtained his early education at the district school in his locality and at Port 
Clinton, N. Y. He started at an early age as clerk in the canal store at Never- 
sink Locks, where he remained for three years. He then served two years at the 
same place as telegraph operator. September i, 1869, he came to Port Jervis, and 
clerked for St. John & Malven. About 1875 he purchased a half interest in the 
hardware store of George Malven. Mr. Gordon was married to Miss Ann Amelia 
Malven, daughter of George Malven, in June, 1877. Three children were born 
to this union, George M., Wilbur and Samuel, all residing at home. Mr. Gordon is 
a republican and in 1900 was elected supervisor of census of his congressional dis- 
trict. He is a member of the Mt. William Lodge, K. of P., is identified with the 
Reformed Dutch Cluirch and is superintendent of the Sunday-school. 



848 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

REV. C. GORSE was born in the town of Fulton, Schoharie County, N. Y., 
June 4, 1815. He was the eldest of four children of Robert and Mary Gorse, who 
owned a -large farm in that township. The father of Robert Gorse was Ephraim, 
who spelled the name Goss, being of English extraction, a descendant of Sir John 
Goss, and a soldier of the Revolution who, having been wounded, perished in the 
rigors of the encampment at Valley Forge. Having acquired a common school 
education, he taught school during the winters, laying the foundation of a rugged 
constitution by working for his father on the farm during the summers, until hav- 
ing attained the age of manhood, he went to the theological seminary at Albany, 
joining the New York Conference in 1840. He resided in Newburgh at the time 
of his death, May 31, 1892, at the ripe age of seventy-nine. He was married on 
August 31, 1836, to Eleanor Louise Ireland, a daughter of Rev. Thomas Ireland, 
a descendant of Sir John Ireland, the former being a pioneer in the Albany circuit 
and a resident of Ireland Corners, New Albany. Of this marriage there were 
born three children : Dr. C. A. Gorse, of Cornwall ; Mrs. Conrad Russ, of Albany, 
and Miss Louisa Virginia, for fifteen years organist of the Church of the Corner 
Stone and music teacher of Newburgh during the residence of her parents there 
and subsequently of Poughkeepsie, and organist of the Reformed Church at New 
Paltz. Rev. and Mrs. Gorse celebrated their golden wedding in Newburgh in 1886, 
when there was a distinguished company of the clergy with friends and relatives 
present, who expressed their high esteem for his moral and religious, character. 

DR. CHARLES ASBURY GORSE was born at Roxbury, Delaware County. 
N. Y., July 12, 1841. He was the only son of the Rev. Charles Gorse and Eleanor 
Louise Ireland, his wife. By this union there were also two sisters, Eleanor Vic- 
toria, wife of Conrad Russ, of Albany, N. Y., and Louisa Virginia, single, of 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. The doctor was educated at Poultney, Vermont, Charlotte- 
ville, Amenia, and Warnerville seminaries in this State, after which he taught 
schools at Stamford, Conn., Patchogue, L. I., Margaretville and Prattsville, N. Y., 
the last three being very successful private schools. He went from the latter place 
in 186 1 to attend the Medical Department of the New York University, from 
which he graduated March 4, 1864. He practiced at Barngall, Dutchess County, 
Brooklyn, L. I., New Providence, N. J., Newark, N. J., about two years at each, 
prior to coming to Vail's Gate, N. Y., in 1872, where he remained until his marriage 
on June 12, 1878, to Sarah Elizabeth Brooks, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. 
Charles Brooks, of Bethlehem, where he has practiced his profession ever since. 
Of this union there were born three children, Charles Victor, Virginia Elizabeth 
and Robert Sylvester. The doctor has served as town physician for the towns of 
Cornwall and New Windsor for several years at various periods, and also as 
health officer for the latter town. One of his ancestors, Ephraim Goss, was a 
soldier of the Revolution. The doctor has always been a staunch republican, cast- 
ing his first vote for Abraham Lincoln on his second election. 

JOHN H. GRAHAM, who for many years was one of the representative far- 



BIOGRAI'HICAL. 849 

mcrs and dairymen of the town of Montgomery, was born there in 1822 and died 
in 1906. He was a son of William and Hannah (Houston) Graham, natives of 
Orange County. William Graham was an active democrat and served his town 
as assessor and supervisor. He was also a member of assembly and declined the 
nomination for State Senator. John H. Graham remained at home until the death 
of his father, when he inherited a part of the homestead and subsequently pur- 
chased the interest of the other heirs. He was a man well read and much inter- 
ested in public affairs, always taking an active part in promoting the welfare of 
the democratic party. Though not an ofiicc-sccker, he was at one time nominated 
for member of assembly. In 1856 he was united in marriage to Miss Isabella 
Young, of Neelytown. The farm, which comprises one hundred and eighty acres, 
is now conducted by his nephew, Mr. Charles H. Graham, who is numbered among 
the progressive citizens of Orange County. 

EDWARD DAVIS GREEN was born July 18, 1856, at Chester, N. Y. His 
parents were Edward and Elizabeth Davis. To this union were born four sons and 
four daughters, only two of whom are now living, Edward D. and Charles. 

Our subject obtained his education at the Chester Academy and at Eastman's 
Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Mr. Green has always been identified with 
agricultural pursuits. He married Clara Hadden, of Chester, N. Y., November 
20, 1877. Their one child died in infancy, and the wife died in 1888. 

In politics Mr. Green is a republican and has served as road commissioner four 
years. He is a member of the Chester Grange and the Presbyterian Church. 

GEORGE W. GREEN. — Among the older business houses of Newburgh is the 
book and stationery store of George W. Green, which was established at 47 Water 
street by Mr. Green, November i, 1869. May i, 1886, he moved to his present quar- 
ters at 65 and 67 Water street. Mr. Green was born in Newburgh in 1840. He is 
a member of the Masonic fraternity and trustee of the Newburgh Savings Bank. 

ISRAEL Y. GREEN was born April 30, 1817, and died August 20, 1876. His 
early education was acquired at the district school. He was a democrat and served 
the town as supervisor for several years. Mr. Green was married to Mary Jane 
(McBride) Drake, of Minisink, widow of Joshua Drake, who died November 21, 
1857. There were four children born to them : Sarah F., wife of John Fields, Jr., 
of Otisville; Myra, wife of Thomas F. Knapp, of Jersey City; Israel, who died at 
Staten Island in 1901, and one cliild. who died in infancy. 

SAMUEL GREEN was born at Ringwood, Passaic County, N. J., December 18, 
1840, being the second of six children of Henry and Mary Green. He attended 
the district school at Edenville, Orange County, and for three years attended the 
Seward Institute, Florida. He then learned the trade of blacksmithing in his 
father's shop. He was a village trustee from 1864 to 1879. He is now an active 



850 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

member of the Florida fire department, which he helped organize in 1885, and was 
one of the incorporators of the Florida water system, which cost $23,000. 

He is a member of Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. and A. M., of which he was 
master two years; member of Midland Chapter No. 240, of Middletown, and Cy- 
press Commandery No. 67. 

Mr. Green's wife is Mary E. Miller, of Florida, to whom he was married Sep- 
tember 6, 1866. They have had eight children, five of whom are living. Addie, 
wife of Fred Roe; Jeanette, wife of William Creeden; Elizabeth, wife of Frank 
Kortright ; Edith, wife of William Boyd ; and Fred, who resides at home. 

WILLIAM H. GREEN, postmaster and merchant at Slate Hill, N. Y., is a native 
of the town of Warwick, N. Y., and established his present business in 1883. He 
was appointed postmaster under Cleveland in 1884; had charge of the post-office 
under Harrison, and was re-appointed postmaster in 1892, during Cleveland's 
second term. His present appointment dates from June 25, 1900. Mr. Green has 
served two terms as town collector, and one term as poor master. Green's Hall 
is utilized for the transaction of the affairs of the town of Wawayanda. 

WILLIAM R. GREEN was born January 12, 1859, on the homestead farm be- 
tween Chester and Florida. He attended school at the Somerville district school, 
Chester Academy and Eastman's College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. He married Anna 
May Dill, of Burnside, N. Y., November 12, 1890. Their one child, Josephine, 
was born February 29, 1892. Mr. Green was twice married, his first wife having 
died May 27, 1894. He married for a second wife Clara B. Tuthill, of Goshen, 
June I, 1898. To this union were born two children, Irene Tuthill, and William 
R., Jr. In politics Mr. Green is a republican. He is a member of the Grange and 
the Chester Presbyterian church. 

OSCAR S. GREENLEAF, proprietor of the Greenleaf Hotel of Otisville, N. Y., 
■was born July 16, 1876. He is a son of John E. Greenleaf, born September 15, 1852, 
and Sarah Jennie (Shaw) Greenleaf, born August 16, 1853. In 1884 John E. Green- 
leaf rented the hotel, then known as the Blizzard House, and conducted it two 
years, after which he purchased the Washington Hotel, which he continued until 
his death, April 22, 1894. His wife died March 25, 1905. 

There were seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. John E. Greenleaf, Charles D., 
born September 28, 1874, superintendent of the Borden Creamery at Thompson, Pa. ; 
Grace M., wife of Charles Hoyt, of Mount Hope, born March 15, 1878; Edwin H. 
born July 22, 1880, residing at Newburgh, N. Y., plant superintendent of the Hudson 
River Telephone Company; Lillian, born May 22, 1882, residing in New York City; 
Frank B., born August 8, 1884, assistant agent of Erie Railroad at Otisville, N. Y. ; 
James Acker, born June 6, 1886, and Oscar S. 

The primary education of our subject was obtained at the district school at 
Mapledale in the town of Wallkill, after which he assisted his father in the hotel 
until his death. He then assumed the management of the hotel. Mr. Greenleaf 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 851 

was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Craig, daughter of A. J. and Mary Etta 
Craig, of Otisville, N. Y., May 6, 1903. One child has blessed this union, Oscar B., 
born March 27, 1905. Socially Mr. Greenleaf is a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 
412, F. and A. M., of Middletown, N. Y., and Midland Chapter No. 240, R. A. M. 
In politics he is a republican. 

JOHN L. GREGORY, one of Middletown's representative and esteemed citizens, 
was born September 28, 1841, at Monroe, Orange County, N. Y. His father was 
John S. and mother Nancy R. (Strong) Gregory. Mr. Gregory attained his early 
education at the academy at Monroe. After his schooling he learned the harness 
trade with his father, who died in 1906 at the age of eighty-eight years. The son 
assumed control of the business, which he conducted successfully for twenty 
years. His mother died in 1905 at the age of sixty-tive years. Mr. Gregory came 
to Middletown and erected a handsome flat building called the "Gregorian," and 
is largely identified in real estate interests in the city. He married Angeline Bab- 
cock, of Monroe, November 27, 1877. Five children have been born to this union, 
Anna Louise, born August 17, 1878; Ruth B., born July 31, 1880; C. Alice, born 
June 18, 1886; and Marguerite, born August 18, 1896. Mr. Gregory and his estima- 
ble wife are members of St. Paul's church. In politics he is a republican. 

ANDREW J. GC^^IAER was born at Godeffroy, Orange County, N. Y., Novem- 
ber 4, 1833. His parents were Peter E. Gumaer and Ester Cuddeback. Our subject 
obtained his education at the district school and the Goshen Academy. After his 
schooling he worked in a general store and on the farm at Godeffroy. In 1872 he 
removed to Guyniard, this county, and opened a general store, which he has since 
continued. 

He married for his first wife Anna E. Strong, October 8, 1862, daughter of 
Augustus and Mary (Comstock) Strong. They had one child, who died in infancy. 
Mr. Curnaer chose for his second wife Adelia P. Strong, January 4, 1868. To this 
union were born three children, William J., Andrew and Annie E. In politics Mr. 
Gumaer is independent. The family attend the Dutch Reformed Church. 

CHAUNCEY I. GUMAER was born February 20, i860, at Godeffroy, Orange 
County, N. Y. He attended the district school, after which he removed to Alma, 
Colorado, in 1879, engaging in the general mercantile business for a period of 
twenty-three years. He was also identified with mining at the same place. He re- 
turned to Orange County in 1902, and has since been engaged in mining at Guymard, 
for the Guymard Lead and Zinc Mining Company, of which Mr. Gumaer is 
president, lie m.arried Miss Bell Graham, of Westtown, for his first wife, and she 
died in Colorado. For his second wife he married Alma G. Petterson, of .\lma, 
Colorado. Their three children are Lucile G.. Helen J. and Alma M. In politics 
Mr. Gumaer is independent. His father. Peter L. Gumaer, was born January 29, 
1827, in the old stone house near Godeffroy, Orange County, N. Y. When he 



852 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

became fifteen years of age he engaged in the general merchandise business with his 
brother, which they conducted for a period of twenty years. He afterward removed 
to Guymard and opened a general store and conducted a summer hotel, which was 
destroyed by fire in 1892. He has been postmaster at Guymard since 1865. Mr. 
Gumaer married Sarah Jane Mulock, of Greenville, N. Y., in 1853, and she died 
November 30, 1907. There were six children born to them, Georgeina I., Laertes 
W., Chauncey I., Franklin P., George .S. and Marie Louise. Mr. Gumaer was 
formerly a member of Hoffman Lodge, F. and A. M. Peter L. Gumaer with his 
brothers, built the road connecting the Neversink Valley road with the Newburgh, 
Goshen and Carpenter's Point turnpike. They also constructed the suspension bridge 
across the Neversink River. It was through this movement the lead and zinc 
mines at Guymard were discovered, which has produced twenty million tons of lead 
and zinc ore. 

SAMUEL HADDEN, a well known citizen of Chester, N. Y., (a portrait of 
whom appears in another part of this volume), is of French Huguenot descent, and 
was born in Rockland County, March 19, 1828. His father died of cholera in 1832, 
and in 1835 his mother married Edward Bellamy. They removed to Florida, 
Orange County, in 1839, where Samuel attended school and also assisted on the 
farm. When eighteen years of age he learned the trade of carriage making at 
Vail's Gate, Orange County. On April 12, 1852, he accepted the position of fore- 
man of James Hallock & Sons carriage manufactory at Sugar Loaf. March 8, 1854, 
he removed to Chester Depot and purchased the business of Henry Wood, which 
he conducted until 1888. He was president of the village of Chester two terms, has 
been town collector and supervisor five terms and for twenty-five years has served 
as inspector of election. He joined the Presbyterian Church March 17, 1849, and 
since that time has been a consistent and active member, serving as elder of the 
church for thirty years. He is a member of the local grange. He married Eliza 
Jane McGill, of Cornwall, May 7, 1851, and they have had three children, Alice J., 
Clara and Eugene. Clara died at the age of thirty years. Mr. Hadden's wife died 
March 10, 1903. His mother's children, two sons and two daughters by her first 
huf,band, and one son and a daughter by her second, are all dead, excepting Samuel 
and John. The mother died in her eighty-first year. Mr. Hadden's farm of one 
hundred acres is the farm on which the ancestors of Secretary Seward were born 
and raised. This locality was at that time called Sommerville. He exhibited 
vehicles at the state fair held in Elmira. N. Y., in 1855, and secured second premium. 
His exhibits at the Orange County fair have always taken first premium. 

JESSE HALBERT was born on a farm near Lake, Orange County, August 20, 
1842. Fie and a brother, Albert Ruggles, are the only two living of the six children 
of Ezra and Phila Ann Halbert. His mother died in 1844 and his father in 1873. 
Jesse acquired his education at the district school, after which he followed agri- 
cultural pursuits and has remained a farmer. He has a dairy farm of two hundred 
arid sixteen acres and is a breeder of Holstein cattle. He married Miss Emily 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 853 

r.alc?, of Morristown, X. J., May 29, 1878, and tlicir two living children arc Ezra, 
horn May 5, 1879, a"d Clarence, born July 25, 1881. Another son, Alfred, born 
January 13, 1883, died January 11, igoo. Ezra and Clarence have three hundred and 
jcventy acres. Ezra is a member of Warwick Grange, a Republican and an energetic 
and progressive farmer. 

DR. CHARLES H. HALL, a practicing physician at Monroe, N. Y., was born in 
W arwick. Orange County, in 1861. He was educated at the State Normal School at 
Mbaiiy and received his medical training from the College of Physicians and Sur- 
treons of New York and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Baltimore. He 
graduated in 1891 and has since practiced at Monroe. In 1901 he was appointed 
surgeon to the Erie Railroad. Dr. Hall is a member of the county and state medical 
societies and enjoys an extensive practice. He married Miss Tillie J. Mitchell, of 
New York and three daughters have been born to them. Dr. Hall is a son of Alva 
and Dermeda (Htmter) Hall. His ancestors settled in Orange County previous to 
the Revolution and took an active part in the nation's struggle for liberty, his great- 
grandfather, John Hall, being a Revolutionary soldier, who, it is supposed, was a 
son of Lyman Hall, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. 

GEORGE E. HALLIDAY, of Newburgh, was born in Dutchess County, N. Y., 
in 1874. He has resided in Newburgh since infancy, and was educated at the schools 
of this city. In T887 he associated himself in the shoe business with J. M. Stouten- 
burgh, with whom he remained five years; later with Sol. Cohen, and in 1905 the 
shoe firm r>i Halliday and Van Ruren was orginized, which continued two 3'ears, 
and in May of IQ07 Mr. Halliday opened his present emporium. 

Mr. Halliday is identified with the Masonic fraternity, a member of the Wheel- 
men's Club, the Canoe and Boating Association and the Orange Lake Yacht Club. 

In 1907 he was united in marriage with Miss Marion, daughter of the late John 
r.ail Borden, for many years president of the widely known Borden Condensed 
Milk Company. 

CHARLES E. HAND, a prominent farmer, who resided for many years near 
Mountainville, Oi-ange County, N Y., was born in the town of Cornwall in 1852, 
and died suddenly February 20, 1908. After finishing his education at the district 
and Newburgh schools, he learned the carpenter's trade. Following his marriage 
to Miss Emma C Smith, he purchased a farm in the town of Woodbury. This 
consisted originally of three hundred and fifty acres. A portion of this land he sold 
to the Erie Railroad for the construction of their new branch. 

Politically Mr. Hand was a Republican and took a very active part in local public 
matters He served as school trustee many years, and in 1904 was elected justice of 
the peace. He was master of tlic Moi-ntainville Grange and past chancellor of the 
Kiughts of Pythias. 

Our subject ivas a son of Edw.ird S. and Charity (Mailler) Hand. He is sur- 



854 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

vived by his wife and three children. One son is senior member of the firm of 
Hand & Brooks, real estate brokers, of Newbiirgh, N. Y. 

WILLIAM HARP2R, who conducts a billiard, pool, bowling and cigar establish- 
ment in Highland Falls, purchased this business in 1906 from his uncle, Edward F. 
Farrell, continuing it with much success. His father, William Harer, and his 
mother, who was formerly Miss Farrell, were old residents of this locality. Our 
subject was born in this village in 1882, where he received his education at the public 
schools. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoys an unusual 
degree of popularity among his fellow citizens. 

JAIHES FIARRISON (deceased), senior member of the firm of Harrison & Gore, 
silk manufacturers, Newburgh, N. Y., bnrn Yorkshire, England, 1840. At the age of 
six years he came with his parents to Newburgh. After finishing his studies, he en- 
gaged with his father in the manufacture of woolen goods. In 1877 he owned the 
business, operating two mills and continued therein until 1892, when he changed his 
product to silk and formed a partnership with his son-in-law, Mr. Gore, and his 
sons, F. J. Harrison and Jas. Harrison, Jr. Mr. Harrison was one of the original 
directors of the Y. M. C. A. and trustee of Grace M. E. Church. He was twice 
married; his first wife, who was Miss Lull, died in 1898. In 1899 he married Mrs. 
Caroline A. Foreman (nee Ely), principal of a New York school. Mr. Harrison 
was a son of Joshua and Mary A. (PJmsley) Harrison, both natives of England. 
Mr. Harrison died June 13, 1907. 

JOHN J. E. HARRISON, manufacturer, Newburgh, and ex-supervisor Sixth 
ward; born Rock City, Dutchess County, May 30, 1846; graduated from East- 
man's Business College, Poughkeepsie ; opened a general store in West Broadway, 
Newburgh, 1876, also dealing extensively in fleece wool. In 1897 he succeeded to 
the business of the Brown Lime Company, in which he is at present engaged. Mr. 
Harrison is a veteran of the Civil War, was wounded at Devoe's Neck in a skir- 
mish; served in Company B, Fifty-sixth New York State Volunteers (Tenth Le- 
gion) ; member Fullerton Post, G. A. R. ; identified with Masonic fraternity and 
I. O. O. F. In politics Republican. In 1907 he was chosen chairman of the board 
of supervisors of Orange County. 

WILLIAM C. HART, a prominent agriculturist of East Walden, was born in 
the town of Montgom.ery, December 18, 1S43 ; the only son of Henry C. and Han- 
nah Jane (Overheiser) Hart. He has resided since childhood on the well-known 
farm "Sycamore Place." 

November 18, 1869, he married Elizabeth Mould, daughter of the late Hamilton 
Morrison. Two sons, Henry Melvin and Robert Clarence, have been born to 
them. 

Mr, Hart is a member of the First Reformed Church at Walden; a director of the 
Orange County Agricultural Society; one of the founders and secretary of the 
Wallkill Valley Farmers' Association. In 1894, Mr. Hart originated and has since 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 855 

publislicd the Annual Souvenir of this organization — a publication of much artistic 
merit. 

GENERAL HENRY C. HASBROUCK was born in Ncwburgh, N. Y., October 
26. i8?q, and i? a son of William C. and Mary E. (Roe) Hasbrouck. He was ap- 
pointed a cadet of the Military Academy, July i, 1856; second lieutenant, Fourth 
Arlillery, May 6. 1861; first lieutenant. May 14, 1861; captain, July 26, 1866; major, 
March 5. 1887; lieutenant-colonel, October 29, 1896; colonel, 'February 13, 1899. 
In 1898 he was appointed brigadier-general, U. S. V., commanding the second 
division of the Second Army Corps, and appointed brigadier-general of the 
regular army December i, 1902. He retired January 5, 1903. General Hasbrouck 
was commandant of cadets United States IMilitary Academy at West Point, N. Y., 
from 1882 to 1888. He was a member of the board in 1888 that prepared the in- 
fantry, cavalry and artillery drill regulations adopted by the War Department 
for use in the United States Army. General Hasbrouck married Miss Laetitia 
Viele Warren, October 26, 1882. They now reside in Ncwburgh. 

General Hasbrouck is a direct descendant of .Abraham Hasbrouck, one of the 
twelve New Paltz patentees. He married Mary Deyo; their son Joseph married 
Elsie Schoonmaker; their son Benjamin married Elidia Schoonmaker, and their 
son Cornelius married Janet Keho, who became the parents of William C, as 
noted above. 

Pini.LIP HASBROUCK, a retired citizen of Walden, N. Y., who has served 
Orange County as Superintendent of the Poor for a period of nine years, is a 
descendant of the old Ulster County family of Hasbroucks who settled in New Paltz 
previpus to 1677. He is a son of Joseph and Sarah (Le Fever) Hasbrouck and was 
born in the village of New Paltz and educated at the schools of that place. His 
younger days were spent in farming, after which he conducted a lumber, coal ajid 
feed business with much success in Walden. He is now vice-president of the 
Schrade Cutlery Company. Politically, Mr. Hasbrouck is a Republican and has 
been very active in promoting the interests of his party. Mr. Hasbrouck married 
Miss Mary Matthews, daughter of the late George Matthews, who, up to the 
time of his death, was vice-president of the New York Knife Works. 

WILLIAM GEORGE HASTINGS, son of James and Mary J. (Brown) Has- 
tings, was born in Ncwburgh, N. Y., and died at Albany, Tune 28, 1907. Mr. Has- 
tings was educated at the public schools of Newburgh and Siglar"s Preparatory 
School. 

From early manhood he was identified with the Republican party, and was an 
earnest worker for its success. He served as deputy postmaster under Joseph A. 
Sneed and was later private secretary to ex-Governor Odell while the latter was 
congressman. 

In 1904 Mr. Hastings was elected member of assembly from the First District of 



856 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Orange County, and re-elected in 1905 and again in 1906, and at each term of the 
legislature was appointed to important committees. 

Mr. Hastings was prominent in Masonic circles ; he was a veteran of the Tenth 
Separate Company; a member of the Odd Fellows, Ringgold Hose Company, New- 
burgh Wheelmen and Newburgh City Club. 

In 1891 Mr. Hastings was united m marriage with Miss May E. Moore, of New- 
burgh. One daughter, Mildred, was born to them. 

Few men of Orange County were so popular as Mr. Hastings, and much sorrow 
was felt by his fellow citizens when it became known that their brilliant genial 
representative at Albany had been called from earth. 

REV. WARREN HATHAWAY, D. D., who has held the pastorate of the 
Blooming Grove Congregational Church for forty years, was born in Saratoga 
County, N. Y., in 1828, a son of Rev. Levi and Rhoda (Miller) Hathaway. His 
education was obtained at Oberlin College, Ohio, and it was there he began his 
clerical studies. He was ordained in Connecticut and his first charge was in the 
town of Lebanon, Conn., where he remained a year and a half. He was then 
transferred to Fall River for a period of six years, following which he held a 
pastorate at Medway, Greene County, N. Y., until 1866, when he came to Bloom- 
ing Grove. By his first wife, who was Miss Cornelia Day, Dr. Hathaway had five 
children, three of whom are living. For his second wife he chose Miss Eliza- 
beth H. Miller. Although nearly four score years of age. Dr. Hathaway is very 
active in the afl'airs of the church, with which he has been identified so many 
years. 

JRA A. HAWKINS. The Hawkins family traces its origin far back into Eng- 
land's earliest history. The first to come to .America were Robert Hawkins and 
his wife, Mary, who came over in the good ship "Elizabeth and Ann," Captain 
Cooper, master, in 16.35. ^nd settled in Charlestown, Mass. 

Moses Hawkins was born October 8, 1763. and came to Orange County in 1790. 
He married Phebe Harlow, and settled in East Division, town of Goshen, on the 
farm now occupied by his great grandson, Frank T. Hawkins. They had three 
sons, Benjamin, Ira and Samuel, and one daughter, Mary, who married Joshua 
Howell. 

Ira, born January 31, 1796.. married May 17, 1821, Hannah, daughter of General 
Abram and Esther Rockv/ell Vail. They settled on a farm near Chester, where 
they lived fifty years. They had six children. Their eldest son, James, born June 
3, 1822, married Adaline Green, daughter of John and Julia Roe Green, in 1844. 
In the following year they removed to Hamptonburgh, at which place he estab- 
lished his home, and remained on the same farm until his death in 1887. He was 
trustee and elder of the First Presbyterian Church of Hamptonburgh. Their 
children were William Green, James P.. V., Iraeneus, who died in infancy; Adaline 
Green, married Alfred E. Ivers, of Allendale, N. J.; Charles Francis; M. Jennie, 
married James L. Pi ice, of Hamptonburgh, and Ira A. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 857 

tlaving become a widower in 1865, on October 28, 1868, he married Emily A., 
daughter of George W. and Hester A. (Sanford) Price, of Hamptonburgh. They 
hud one son, George W. P., and one daughter, Emma Antoinette, married John 
Biidd Gregory, who now occupy the homestead farm. 

Ira A. Ifawkins, born August 4, 1864, at the death of his father in 1887, came 
with liis brotlier George into possession of the farm, where he resided until 1894, 
wlicn he sold his interests in the place to his brother and purchased the C. L. 
Morehouse farm, near Warwick, on the Edenville road, where he now resides. 
Resides successfully carrying on his farm, he is also engaged in the insurance 
business. He is now serving as treasurer and elder of the Dutch Reformed Church 
of Warwick. 

On October 24, 1888, he married Anna, daughter of Valentine and Hannah 
(Seaman) Seaman, of Blooming Grove, who were both lineal descendants of 
Captain John Seaman, who settled at Long Island in 1660. 

Their children are: Valentine Seaman, born December i, 1889, died September 
7, 1893; Charles Francis, born AJarch 9, 1892; Ira .Mden, born December 30, 1894, 
and Harold James, born November 20, 1896. 

TRWIN E. HAWKINS was born and reared on the homestead farm near Otis- 
ville. He acquired his early education at the district school, and at an early age 
identified himself with farming. When he attained the age of thirty-two years he 
engaged in the milk business at Middletown and Mount Vernon, Westchester 
County, N. Y. He has served as town collector for three years, school collector six 
years and commissioner of highways. In politics he is a republican. He fol- 
lowed the carpenter trade for two years and is now identified with the Otisville 
Sanatorium. He married Miss Harriet Smith, daughter of Frank and Hannah 
(Bell) Smith, October 19, 1892. Mr. Hawkins is a member of the Otisville Grange 
No. 1020. He and his wife are members of the Otisville Methodist Church and 
are liberal contributors to its support. 

UZAL T. H.WES wa. born at Bluomfield. N. J., February 5, 1834. His early 
education was acquired at the Bloomfield Free School, which was the first in New 
Jersev, after "which he attended the Seymour Institute. In 1856 he engaged in the 
leather business in Newark, N. (., and in December, 1865, became a partner in the 
firm of T. P. Howell & Co., which afterward took the name of Howell, Hinchman & 
Co. In 1880 the company was incorporated and Mr. Hayes was made its treasurer 
and general managf-r. 

He married Miss Caroline A. Morris, of Bloomfield, N. J., in i860. She died 
July 3 1888. Their four children are Harry M., Thomas E., Caroline and Mabel. 
Mr. Hayes has sc-ved as a member of the board of education and president of the 
board of water commissioners. Socially he is a Royal Arch Mason and a member 
of the I. O. O. r.. of Newark, N. J. In politics he is a republican. 

JOHN H.AZEn^ was born at Greenwood Lake, Orange County. March 18. 1835; 



858 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

died December 19, 1907. As a democrat he was chosen tax collector for one term 
and a constable for two years. He was owner of the Hotel Boulevard at Green- 
wood Lake, and also proprietor of the Windermere Hotel, which accommodates 
seventy -fiv^e guests, and of the Brandon House. He owned many good horses, 
among them "Peaches," with a record of 2:12, and "Stately Dame," with a record of 
2 -.T."]. His wife, who was Sarah A. Merritt, of Sloatsburg, died in 1906. Two of 
their four children are living, Mary, wife of John Van Ness, and Daisy, wife of 
William Wright. 

Mr. Hazen became a guide for sportsmen who came to the Waterstone and 
Brandon Houses for their vacations, to fish and hunt, and without educational or 
financial advantages, took on the tastes and manners of associates who had them. 
The friends he made of business men whom he guided over mountains and lakes 
after game in his younger days remained his friends all their lives. Such 
attachments tell, probably better than anything else we might write, of the genial, 
modest and thoroughly reliable traits of the departed. 

JOEL T. HEADLEY was born December 30, 1S13, at Walton, Delaware County, 
N. Y., where his father was settled for many years as the Presbyterian clergy-man. 
Mr. Headley early determmed to make his father's vocation his own, and after 
graduating from Union College, in 1839, he took a course in theology at the Auburn 
Theological Seminary. 

After being ordained he was settled over a church at Stockbridge, Mass., and 
immediately entered with enthusiasm upon the discharge of the numerous duties in- 
separably connected with the sacred office. He soon found, however, that his con- 
stitution, already undermined by many years of unceasing application and incessant 
study, was unable to stand the further strain imposed upon it, and he was reluctantly 
compelled to relinquish his chosen profession, and in 1842 went to Europe. 

While abroad he occasionally contributed articles to the press and periodicals, 
and the favorable manner in which they were received encouraged him to offer to 
the public his "Letters from Italy." The gratifying reception at once accorded to 
this work first turned his mind seriously toward literary pursuits, and soon after 
his return from Europe he yielded to the solicitations of hit friend Horace Greeley, 
and became the associate editor of the New York Tribune. The confining duties 
necessarily connected with the duties of an editor soon became irksome to him, 
and at the end of a year he severed his connection with that paper and henceforth 
pursued the path of authorship. In 1846 "Napoleon and His' Marshals" appeared, 
and was followed at various periods bv "Washington and His Generals," "History 
of the War of 1812,'" "Life of Cromwell," ".Life of Havelock," '-Life of Scott and 
Jackson," "Sacred Mountains," "Sacred Scenes and Characters," "Sacred Heroes 
and Martyrs," "Headley's Miscellanys," "The Imperial Guard," "Chaplains and 
Clergj' of the Revolution," "The Great Rebellion," "Grant and Shorman," "Life of 
Farra.gut, and Our Naval Commanders," and "History of the Great Riots," besides 
other works of lesser note. 

Mr. Headley's literary work suffered a few year's interruption when, in 1854, he 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 859 

was elected to the New York assembly from the First District of Orange County, 
anci the year following was chosen secretary of the State of New York. Mr. Head- 
ley did not lay down his busy pen until late in life, and the popular favor which was 
accorded him at the outset of his career never entirely left him, and all his books 
were remunerative. 

Mr. Headley's passionate love for nature in all her various moods led him nearly 
forty years ago to seek those great solitudes which the Adirondacks had at that 
time kept concealed trom all men save the trapper or woodsman. He was so en- 
amored of that Switzerland of America that for over thirty years he made yearly 
pilgrimages for health and pleasure to that beautiful region. He was probably the 
lirst tourist to visit that section, and his descriptions of its charms and health- 
giving powers soon induced large numbers to visit it, and thus led to its becoming 
the great fashionable resort it is to-day. 

For over thirty years Mr. Headley resided in Newburgh and vicinity, and 
always took an active interest in the historic scenes and acts with which our 
locality abounds. The patriotic attempts of several of our citizens to secure the 
preservation of that venerated building, Washington's Headquarters, received his 
hearty support, and for many years he was president of the trustees of the 
headquarters. 

Believing in the importance of fixing in the minds of the people all those events 
wiiich arc vitally coimected with the fate of our republic, he early conceived the 
idea of celebrating in some public manner those historic events which have made 
Xewburgh famous in American history. To him more than any other individual is 
due, not only the inception, but also the successful carrying out of our centennial 
celebration in 188.3. 

Mr. Headley passed the allotted span of life, dying at Newburgh, December 30, 
1897, i" his eighty-fourth year. 

JACOB L. HTCKS, formerly supervisor of the town of Highland, was born 
in Orange County, N. Y., in 1874. From 1893 to 1896 he was stationed at West 
Point with the United States Army. When war was declared with Spam, in 1898, 
Mr. Hicks went to the front with the Seventy-first New York Regiment. After he 
was mustered out he established his present grocery store at Highland Falls, in 
which he has been very successful. Mr. Hicks, who is a staunch democrat, was 
elected supervisor November, 1905. In 1907 he was again a candidate for the 
office and was elected by four votes, which is now being contested in the Supreme 
Court. 

Mr. Hicks is a member of the Army and Navy Union and of the Knights of 
Columbus. He married Miss Frances G. Hager, and three children have been born 
to them. He was instrumental in the establishment of the First National Bank of 
Highland Falls, and is connected with all movements pertaining to the advance- 
ment of the village. 

HENRY C. HIGGINSON, president of the Higginson Manufacturing Co., of 



86o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Newburgh, occupies an important position in the industrial life of the Hudson 
^^alley. The company owns the Windsor Gypsum Company and Lenox Gypsum 
Company of Nova Scotia; also half owners of the Sing Sing Lime Company, 
Ossining, N. Y., operating a hne of four freight steamers between Ossining and 
New York City. 

Mr. Higginson was born in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1852, and came to Newburgh 
at the age of twelve years. After finishing his studies he engaged in his present 
business, then known as W. R, Brown & Co., manufacturers of Rosendale Cement. 
The business was established in 1865, and in 1872 was merged into the Newburgh 
Cement & Plaster Company. In 1875, Mr. Higginson became sole proprietor of 
the business, and in 1899 the firm name was changed to Higginson Manufacturing 
Company. 

CH.A.RLES HIGH AM. Nine months after Charles Higham's birth at Man- 
chester, England, April 6, 1867, he was brought to America by his parents, who 
settled in Middletown in January, 1868. In Manchester his father had been a fancy 
silk weaver. Here he became proprietor of the Wallkill House, and conducted it 
until his death, in 1872. He was married twice, his second wife before marriage 
being Eli/^abeth Redfield, of Manchester. Charles was the youngest of their two 
children, and finished his school education at the Wallkill Academy. His mother 
assumed the responsibilities of the hotel management after her husband's death, 
and conducted the Wallkill House ten years, when, in 1882, she became proprietor 
of the Commercial Hotel. In April of that year her son Charles, although but 
fifteen years of age, became controUing manager, and is now the proprietor of this 
hotel. He is now chief for the eleventh time of the Middletown fire department, 
with which he has been actively identified twentj'-five years. He is a member and 
treasurer of the Firemen's Relief and Benefit Association and president of the 
board of representatives of the Middletown fire department. The societies of 
which he is a member are Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and A. M. ; Midland Chapter 
No. 240; Cypress Commandery, No. 67: Mecca Shrine of New York City; Wilbur 
H. Weston Shrine of Newburgh, and Port Jervis B. P. O. E., No. 645. He 
organized, maintains and is president of the Charles Higham fife and drum corps 
of twenty-five members. 

GEORGE S. HILL, son of William and Ruth Augusta (Hovey) Hill, was born 
at Bullville, Orange County, N. Y., in 1854. In 1865, his father moved to the town 
of Newburgh and purchased the Henrv Miller property, consisting of thirty-eight 
acres. George S. obtained his education at the district schools of this locality 
and finished his studies at the Claverack Institute. He has since been engaged 
in farming and is identified with the Little Britain Grange. He married Miss 
Sarah E. Waugh, and their home is pleasantly situated on the State road, near 
Coidenham. 

REUBEN HILTON, attorney of Newburgh, is a son of William H. and Mary A. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 86i 

(Colwell) Hillon. He was born in Newburgh, 1877. Mr. Hilton graduated from 
the Andover preparatory sdiool in i8g6 and spent two and a half years at Yale 
University. He is a graduate from the New York Law School in 190T, and has 
since practiced in Newburgh, where he was appointed collector of the port, May, 
1906. He is a member of the Andover Alumni Association and the Wheelmen's 
Club of Newburgh. He married Mi?s Minnie r'aucs, of Washington, D. C. 

WILLIAM T. HILTON, son of John and Anna L. ('i'urner) Hilton, was born 
in Newburgh, July 18, 1866. His education was obtained at the Newburgh 
Academy and Philips Exeter Academy, Exeter, N. H. Since his father's death 
he has acted as executor and manager of the numerous properties which his 
father left. Mr. Hilton is treasurer of the Newburgh Brick Company and a mem- 
ber of the board of health. 

The opportunities which Newburgli presents to men of intelligence and per- 
severance have a striking illustration in the career of John Hilton, who, com- 
mencing as a poor boy, amassed a large fortune solely through the channels of real 
estate, becoming one of the largest individual property owners in the city. 

JOHN H. HINCHMAN, deceased, was born September 5, 1820, at Paterson, 
N. J. He conducted a livery business at Sussex, N. J., later removing to Orange 
County, and purchased the Quackenbush and Sherwood farms at Neelytown. Mr. 
Hinchman resided in Neelytown some time and finally sold the Quackenbush farm 
to John P. Covert and the Sherwood farm to R. J. Fisher. He then purchased the 
Orange Hotel, at Goshen, which he conducted six years. He was married to Eliza 
Hopper, of Paterson, N. J. He was a democrat and took an active interest 
in local aflfairs. John H. Hinchman, Jr., attained his early education at Waters' 
Academy and Miller's Business Institute, Paterson, N. J. He married Miss 
Maggie Gray, of Port Jervis. February, 1883. Their children are Catherine G., 
born January 29, 1884, and Florence M., born November 7, 1898. Mr. Hinchman 
is identified with the democratic party and atterds the Episcopal Church. 

FRANK HOLBERT, son of Albert Ruggles and Mary (Wisner) Holbert, was 
born at Lake, Warwick Township. His education was acquired at the district 
school and Warwick high school, from which he graduated. He was for a time 
emploved in a restaurant in New York City, and in 1899 engaged in the business 
for himself in Park Place, New York, v hich was afterward destroyed by fire. He 
then opened a similar estaolishment at 12-14 Warren street, which he has since 
conducted. This is a large establishment, catering to the better class of people. 
Mr. Holbert married Miss Grace Pelton, December 17. 1890. She is the eldest 
daughter of William W. and Alemeda CKnapp) Pelton, of Warwick, N. Y. Three 
children have been born to this union : Resmem Wisner, born Ocotber 26, 1891 ; 
Albert Ruggles, born April 12, 1805. and Grace Pelton, born June 24, IQ04. Mr. 
Holbert is a member of Warwick Lodge, No. 544, F. and A. M. 



862 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

O. M. HOLLENBECK, a retired merchant of Turner, N. Y., was born in 1844 
in Herkimer County. After finishing his schooling he occupied the position of 
wholesale agent in New York City five years. In 1873 he established a general 
store at Turners, which he conducted with much success for thirty-three years. 
He disposed of the business in 1906 and has since lived in retirement. Mr. Hollen- 
beck served as postmaster two terms during Cleveland's administrations. He also 
held the office of town clerk for four years. He has been twice married. His first 
wife was Matilda Bush, who left one son, Arthur O. 

In 1881 he married Elizabeth Barnes. They have four children : Mary H., wife 
of Peter H. Bush, of Brewster, N. Y. ; Cora, the wife of H. F. Pembleton, of Cen- 
tral Valley; Grace B. and Alan W., at home. 

HENRY A. HOLLEY, of Otisvilie, N. Y., was born October 7, 1873. He mar- 
ried Harriet Easton, October 7> iSg6, and three children were born to them : 
Henry B., born August 26, 1898 ; Eliz.abeth Corwin, born April 30, 1900, and J. 
Easton, born September 20. 1905. He is a member of Standard Lodge, No. 711, F. 
and A. M., of Monroe, N. Y. ; past chancellor of Chester Lodge, No. 363, K. of P., 
and member of the Modern Woodmen of America, Otisvilie Lodge, No. 1083. In 
politics he is a republican, and was nominated on the republican ticket in the fall of 
1907 for justice of the peace. His father, David A., was born in Ulster County, 
N. Y., February 2, 1850, and attended the district school, where he obtained his 
early education. At an early age he associated himself with his father, learning 
the wheelwright trade, which vocation he has always followed. He married Annie 
Arnoys, of Ellenville, N. Y., September 2, 1873. Three children were born to this 
union : Henry A. ; Nellie B., born July 19, 1876, wife of Alexander Mitchell, of 
Hopewell, N. Y., and Emma G., born P'ebruary 22, 1880, wife of James Hawkins, 
of Otisvilie, N. Y. In politics he is a republican, but was elected as overseer of 
the poor by both parties for a period of twelve years. His wife died October, 1893. 
He is a member of Hoffman Lodge, No. 412, F. and A. M. 

CHARLES HORTON, deceased, was born at Colchester, Delaware County, 
N. Y., February 25, 1815. He engaged in the tanning business at Callicoon, Sulli- 
van County, and ultimately became the leader in that industry, owning and operat- 
ing more tanning establishments than any other one man in the country. He was 
also the first to engage in that business in Sullivan County. 

He married Betsy Grant, daughter of Joseph Grant, of Sullivan County, and six 
children were born to them : Lucinda, Gurdon B., Melvin, Francis E., Louise and 
Florence. Mr. Horton resided in Middletown for many years, and was one of its 
most progressive and useful citizens. The family attended Grace Episcopal 
Church. 

WEBB HORTON who has been an active, progressive and extensive business 
man, is now eighty-two years old, having been born February 24, 1826, at Colchester. 
Delaware County. His parents, Isaac and Prudence Knapp Horton, were married 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 863 

in i<So7, and had ten children. Mr. Horton's early education was in the district 
school, between which and his father's farm he divided his time, until he was 
fifteen years of age, when he learned the trade of wood turning and worked at it 
ten years. In 1854 he built the tannery at Narrowsburgh, N. Y., which he operated 
for ten years. In 1864 he went to Warren County, Pa., and engaged in tanning — a 
business with which he has since been connected imtil recent years. He married 
-Miss Elizabeth A. Rndeker, of the town of Montgomery, in 1855, and they have 
had three children : Junius, who died in 1879, while a cadet at the Bisbee Military 
Academy in Poughkeepsie ; Eugene, associated with the United States Leather 
Company, of New York City, and Carrie, residing at home. Mr. Horton has been 
one of the representative men of Middletown and his comprehensive grasp of large 
business affairs is shown in the remarkable success he has achieved. He is now 
living retired in the enjoyment of a peaceful old age in one of the finest residences 
in the state, overlooking Middletown, which he recently built. His wife is a mem- 
ber of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, and both are highly esteemed by 
their neighbors and acquaintances. 

CARLETON P. HOTALIXG, merchant, at Tuxedo Park, N. Y., was born and 
educated in Delaware County. He has resided in Orange County since 1890, and 
twelve years ago engaged in his present bicycle and photographic supply establish- 
ment. 

Mr. Hotaiing has served nine years as justice of the peace and six years as col- 
lector of Tuxedo town. He if- prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity, 
including Highland Chapter. Hudson River Commandery and Mecca Temple. 

JAMES EDWARD HOUSTON is of .Scotch-Irish descent, and was born on 
the homestead three miles from Elorida, Orange County, September 22, 1862, and 
was one of the six children cf William H. and Ann Houston. He attended the 
district school at Union Corners and the Seward Institute at Florida. After work- 
ing on his father's farm several years he bought the Thomas Jackson farm of 130 
acres, and has made farming his lite occupation. His dairy cows are of Holstein 
breed, and his fruit specialty is peach growing. He is active in local matters and 
his family antecedents are of the best. He married Kissie Armstrong, of Florida, 
June 17, 1884. 

JOEL W. HOUS'lON was born M.irch 2fi, 1856, on the old homestead, two and 
one-half miles from Florida. His father was William H. and mother Anna E. 
Wheeler. There were six children in parents' family. Joel W. was the fourth child. 
He attended the district school and assisted on the farm. Mr Houston has always 
been identilied with agri^-nlliira! pursuits. He married Anna Jessup. June 29, 1881. 
He is a republican, and one of the elders of the Presbyterian Church at Florida. 
I L' has been a director of the Orange County .Agricultural Societv for six years 
and superintendent of crates and tickets. 



864 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

CAPTAIN JOHN W. HOUSTON was born March 20, 1842, on the homestead 
farm at Bellvale, Orange County, N. Y. When nineteen years of age he enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and went 
forth to fight for the Union in the Civil War. He was made second lieutenant. In 
the battle of Chancellorsville, in 1863, he was severely wounded, and again at Spot- 
sylvania, in May, 1864, which led to his honorable discharge. When the war ended 
he was breveted captain. He married Miss Julia Baird, who died in 1880, leaving 
four sons and one daughter : Floyd, George, James, Frank and Clara. February 
12, 1892, Captain Houston chose for his second wife Miss Margaret B. Neely, of 
Bellvale, N. Y., who survives him. He is also survived by a brother, Henry W., 
of Bellvale, and two sisters, Mrs. Mary Francisco, of Little Falls, N. J., and Mrs. 
J. H. Bertholf. Captain Houston was a member of Warwick Lodge, No. 544, F. 
and A. M., and of G. A. R. Post, No. 575. He died January 11, 1905. 

SAMUEL B, HOUSl ON was born December 5, 1845. Fie attended the district 
school and Warwick Institute. He conducted a retail boot and shoe business in 
W'arwick for seven years, and has alvva3''s been engaged in agricultural pursuits. 
He married Salona S. Palmer, of Warwick, October .25, 1871. Three children were 
born to this union, two of whom are living: Charles B., who resides in Brooklyn 
and is engaged in the manufacturing business ; Anna G., wife of J. Arthur Knapp, 
of Florida, this county, and Edna K., who died in 1898 in her twenty-third year. 
Mr. Houston has taken an active interest in public matters pertaining to his 
locality and served on the no- license commission of Warwick. In 1903 he was 
appointed to fill the vacancy of superintendent of poor of Orange County. Fie is a 
republican and a member of the Methodist' Church at Edenville. Socially he is a 
member of Warwick Lodge, No. 544, F. and A. M. 

CLARENCE J. HOWELL was born on the Howell homestead near Florida, 
Orange County, N. Y., December 30, 1868, and died March 3,0, 1905. He was a 
son of Asa Howell. Clarence rented his father's farm after his marriage and 
continued on the homestead until the death of his mother in 1897, when the farm 
was left to him. His father continued to make his home with his son un'til 
his death in 1900. Clarence obtained his education at the S. S. Seward Institute 
at Florida. He was united in marriage to Minnie Sinsabaugh, daughter of 
Daniel and Ellen A. Sinsabaugh, of Liberty Corners, Orange County, November 
19, 1891. The children are Floyd Van Duzer, born October 19, 1892; Clara Adams, 
born February 4, 1894; William Sinsabaugh, born November 24, 1895; Thomas 
Wheeler, born December 3, 1898; Jennie Jessup, born May 27, 1904. The Howell 
homestead comprises one hundred and twenty-five acres and has been in the family 
sinc6 1790. It is one of the best dairy farms in Orange County, and considerable 
of the low ground is devoted to onion growing. 

DAVID H. HOWELL, clerk of the town of Crawford, Orange County, was 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 865 

born in this township in i8()8. He is a son of Harvey and Emeline (Decker; 
Howell. After finishing his education at tlie pnblic schools, he learned the tinsmith's 
trade and established his present hardware bnsincss at Bullville, in 1893, in wliich 
he has acquired much success. 

Politically Mr. Howell is a democrat and was elected town clerk in 1905. He 
is a member of the Knights of Pythias. 

D. BREWSTER HOWELL, a prominent farmer in the town of Newburgh, near 
East Coldenham, is a son of John C. and a grandson of Rensselaer Howell. It is 
ascertained that Silas Howell was born in Long Island, but moved to Orange 
County at an early day. He was a millwright by trade and became the owner 
of a large tract of land in the town of Newburgh. He was the father of four 
children, of whom Rensselaer bought one hundred and sixty acres adjoining the 
old homestead, and married Alice Belknap. They settled and built their home 
in what was then a forest, but what is now as fine and well cultivated a farm as can 
be found in the country. The following children were born : David B., Rensselaer, 
Jr., John Colvin and Mary F. Of these John C. continued the management of the 
farm, which is now conducted by D Brewster Howell, who married Miss Kath- 
erme McCartney. They are the parents of tv/o children : Elwood B. and Gertrude 
May. 

JAMES T. HOWELL was born on the homestead farm about one mile from 
Howells station in the town of Mount Hope, Orange County, August 25, 1845. He 
was a son of Samuel C. and Sallie Jane (Beakes) Howell and attended 
the district school in the neighborhood; after his schooling he remained on the 
farm, and April i, 1869, he purchased the farm of his father. He lived in New 
York City for twenty years, where he was identified with the milk business. Mr. 
Howell is extensively engaged in breeding and dealing in Holstein Friesian cattle. 

He married Ester Caroline Harding, November 25, 1869. To this union were 
born three children, one dying in infancy. The others are Lucy J., wife of Max- 
well R. Wright, of Jersey City, born September 16, 1876, and Charles A., born 
August 26, 1882, residing at home. In politics Mr. Howell is a republican. His 
son, Charles A., is a member of the Wallkill Grange, and of Hoffman Lodge No. 
412, F. and A. M., of Middletown, N. Y. 

JOHN T. HOWELL, M.D., Newburgh, born Middletown, N. Y., April 23, 1862, 
son of Abraham P. and Hannah (Smith) Howell. Educated Wallkill Academy; 
graduated medical department Columbia University, New York, 1884; appointed 
resident surgeon Bellevue Hospital, 1884-1886; since engaged in practice at New- 
burgh. In 1892, president Orange County Medical Society; mcmhor State Society, 
American Medical Association and New York Academy of Medicine. In 1889 
married Miss Sarah T., daughter of Robert Steele. Three children have been born 
to them. 



866 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

HON. NATHANIEL W. HOWELL, who has held the office of justice 
of the peace in his native town for half a centurj-, is a son of Mathew H. Howell 
and Julia (Brewster) Howell and great grandson of Major Hezekiah Howell, an 
officer in the Continental Army and first sheriff of Orange County and supervisor 
of the town of Blooming Grove, and son of Hezekiah Howell, who came to Orange 
County in seventeen hundred and thirtv-sevcn (1737) from South Hampton, L. L, 
and settled in Blagg's Clove, so-called from Rlagg's patent, a tract of land of one 
thousand (1,000) acres, lying in the valley betwen Schunemvmk Mountain and 
Round Hill, which, in company with other early settlers, he purchased, and of his 
proportionate share made his farm, to which Major Hezekiah Howell and his son, 
Hezekiah, added, by purchase of lands adjoining, sufficient to make the whole 
seven hundred and fifty (750) acres. Nathaniel W. has lived upon and managed 
the estate since 18S6, until IQ08. when he sold the whole estate to Corydon S. 
Purdy, of Montclair, N. J., a descendant of Susan Howell, daughter of Major 
Hezekiah Howell. 

Mr. Purdy is remodelling the whole estate, erecting extensive buildings and 
adding equipments, fitting it for a modern up-to-date sanitary dairy farm, also 
fruits and vegetables and also modernizing the dwelling erected by Major Hezekiah 
Howell in 1797. In the cemetery or family burying-ground, in the original pur- 
chase, are the remains of four (4) Hezekiah Howells, lineal descendants of 
Lieutenant Hezekiah Howell of South Hampton, L I., who in succession owned 
and occupied the original estate. Nathaniel W. was graduated from Williams 
College in 1853 with the degree of A.B., and afterwards received the degree of 
A.M., read law in Chicago in the office "of Grant Goodrich, and was admitted 
to the bar in 1857; was member of the legislature of New York in 1863-4, ancl 
supervisor of the town of Blooming Grove. He married Mary Halsey, daughter of 
Walter and Caroline (Marvin) Halsey, and has a daughter, Joanna B., and son, 
Hezekiah. 

SAMUEL C. HOWELL was born in the town of Wallkill, May 21, 1807, being 
the only son of William A. and Elizabeth (Calander) Howell. The maternal 
grandfather of Samuel C. Howell was a- Virginian by birth, and a lieutenant of 
the Light Horse Cavalry during the Revolutionary War. Our subject at the time 
of his marriage purchased a small farm in the town of Mount Hope, and to this 
he added, from time to time, until he owned four hundred acres of valuable land 
in this and Wallkill towns. When the Erie Railroad was constructed he built 
the depot and later constructed a hotel and other buildings, and thus the village 
of Howells was established in his honor. He was the railroad agent and post- 
master at this place. He was a liberal contributor to the church and other enter- 
prises. For a number of years he served as assessor, and took a prominent part 
in the local work of the republican party. 

WILLI.A.M J. HUDSON, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Davis) Hudson, was 
born in 1861 on the farm where he now resides in the town of Blooming Grove. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 867 

His great great grandfather, William Hudson, settled in this locality about two 
centuries ago, purchasing a tract of land some two miles in length. William J. is 
the fifth generation to occupy the ancestral homestead. He married Miss Grace 
.\. Wright and they are the parents of five children : Ethel, David, Grace Alma, 
Clare and William Reeves. He is one of the representative farmers of his native 
town, a member of the grange and a director of the gran;;e store at Washington- 
ville, also a director of the National Bank in Washingtonville. 

JOSEPH B. HULETT, M.D., a prominent physician of Middletown, N. Y., is 
a surgeon wha by his enlightened skill has secured a wide reputation, and won 
a place in the front rank of his profession. He was born August 4, 1858, at Barton, 
Tioga County, N. Y., a son of Cyrus B. and Ruth Emily (Slawson) Hulett. His 
education was obtained in the schools of New York City and Wallkill Academy. 
He began the study of medicine under Dr. Darwin Everett, of Middletown, and 
later had as his preceptors Drs. T. D. Mills, of Middletown, and Charles L. Wilkin, 
of New York. He entered Columbia University and graduated from the medical 
department of that institution May 12, 1887. He also took a post-graduate course 
in Manhattan Hospital. In 1888 he entered upon the practice of his profession at 
Middletown. Dr. Hulett is a member and ex-president of the Orange County 
Medical Society, a member of the New York State Medical Society, the American 
Medical Association, and is ex-vice-president of the International Association of 
Raihvay Engineers. He is attending surgeon for Thrall Hospital, of Middletown, 
and has been surgeon for the Twenty-fourth Separate Company for the past five 
years. He was secretary and one of the organizers of the State Association of 
Railway Surgeons, surgeon for the N. Y., O. & W^. Railway, ex-military surgeon 
attached to Third Brigade, New York National Guard, and is an honorary member 
of the Association of Medical Officers of the Naval and Militia Association, State 
of New York. Socially he holds membership in the Knights of Pythias, of Middle- 
town ; Hoflfman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M. : Middletown Chapter, R. A. M. ; 
Cypress Commandery, and the Mystic Shrine of New York City, and is an hon- 
orary member of Excelsior Hook and Ladder Company of Middletown. Dr. Hulett 
takes a deep interest in electrical matters, to which he has devoted much study. 
He is an honorary member of the Corliss Engineers' Association. He married 
Lottie B. Hulse, daughter of Hudson E. and Anna (Thompson) Hulsc, of W'all- 
kill, Orange County, on June 27, 1889, and they have one son, J. Leslie, born April 
r. 1891. His father, Cyrus B. Hulett, was born in Waverly, N. Y., and died Feb- 
ruary 25, 1875. His mother was a native of Orange County, and died in No- 
vember, 1889. 

WILLIAM A. HULSE. The living children of John H. and Mary Hulse are: 
Mrs. .Annie Thurston, of Stoneham. Mass.; William .\., of Warwick, and Rolwrt 
Emmett, of ^'iddletown. William A. was born in ^liddlctown, April i, 1853, and 
after his education in the public schools worked for Wilson H. Provost in the first 
milk establishment to manufacture condensed cream for the armv and the southern 



868 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

trade. He was quite j^oung when he learned the phmibing trade in Keyport, N. J., 
where he remained four years, then in Newark several months, and from there 
came to Warwick, March 19, 1875. Here he was in the employ of Finch & Coldwell 
several years, and then opened a shop for himself in plumbing, heating and tin 
work, and is still in the business. He is a member of Wawayanda Lodge, No. 34, 
I. O. O. F., and of the Warwick Excelsior Hose Company. He was water 
commissioner and superintendent of the water works from 1887 to 1903. In 
politics he is independent. Mr. Hulse was married to Miss Clara, daughter of John 
L, and Julia Finch, of Warwick, January 12, 1882. They have five children : Elbert 
L., born September 5, 1882; Everett B., born September 12, 1884; Addie B., born 
September 21, 1886; William A., born October 9, 1888, and Janet P., born July 
6. 1890. 

ROBERT O. HUNT, manager of the Westtown plant of the Borden Condensed 
Milk Company, was born in the town of Minisink in 1866. He is a son of Robert 
and Catura (Osborn) Hunt. He attended the district schools, and after farming 
for a time went to Middletown and learned the machinists' trade. He has been 
associated with the Borden industries since 1892, and was appointed to his present 
position in 1904. He is a member of Hoffman Lodge, No. 412, F. and A. M., and of 
the L O, O. F. In 1907 he was elected a member of the board of assessors of the 
town of Minisink. 

Mr. Hunt married Miss Lydia Winters, and they are the parents of two sons 
and four daughters. 



WILLIAM HUGH HYNDMAN, attorney and recorder of Newburgh, N. Y., 
was born in Newburgh, October 13, 1861, a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Gibb) 
Hyndman. He prepared for college at Newburgh Academy with the late Profes- 
sor Hugh S. Banks, and graduated from Yale University in 1884 with the degree 
of A. B. Mr. Hyndman studied law in the office of Messrs. Scott and Hirschberg, 
and was admitted to the bar May 16, 1889. He was elected recorder of the city 
of Newburgh in 1805 o" the republican ticket, and has been successively re-elected 
four times. 

Recorder Hyndman married Miss Betsey Leighton Marden, of Newburgh. 

The late Robert Hyndman was one of Newburgh's successful merchants, conduct- 
ing a grocery store on Broadway for forty years. 

JOHN E. ISEMAN was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, in 1835. He came to 
America in the spring of 1853, locating in New York City, where he operated a 
bakery. He retnoved to Chester, N. Y., and engaged in business for a period of 
four vears. In 1861 he located in Middletown, where he has since remained, con- 
ducting a bakery business at the same location since that period. He married 
Josephine Stoddard, daughter of Ira L. and Mary Jane Stoddard. Their five 



P.TOr.RAPHICAI.. 869 

children are: Charles Wesley, engaged in business in New York; George H., of 
Middletown; Catherine, wife of W. D. McQueen, superintendent of the Scranton 
division of the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad ; Christine, residing at home, 
a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, of Boston, who taught 
two years at Holland, Va. ; John E., a graduate of Annapolis Naval Academy, who 
has been assigned to the battleship Montana. In politics Mr. Iseman is a republi- 
can. He served as one of the first trustees of the village for four years and was 
Middletowns first mayor. He served continuously since 1891 as a member of the 
board of supervisors. He is a director of the Merchants' National Bank, trustee 
of the Middletown Savings Bank, vice-president of the Hillside Cemetery Associa- 
tion, and ex-president of the Phoenix Fire Company. He is a member and presi- 
dent of the board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Socially he is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. of Middletown. 



EZRA T. JACKSON was born August 23, 1843, at Chester, Orange County, 
N. v., and was instructed at the Chester Academy. At the age of twenty-one he 
succeeded his father in the store at Chester, and on June 15, 1881, married Margaret 
Douglas Davidson, of Blooming Grove. Their only son, William Lewis, graduated 
from Lafayette College, at Easton, I'a., in the class of 1908, and is a member of the 
Fraternity Alpha Chi Rho. The subject of this sketch is a member of the New 
York Genealogical and Biographical Society, became a member of Goshea 
Lodge, No. 365, F. and A. M., in 1868, and a charter member of Standard Lodge, 
No. 711, F. and A. M., of Monroe, in 1871. He is also a member of the Orange 
County Chapter, Sons of the Revolution, and was commissioned first lieutenant in 
the Nineteenth New York Infantry, March 25, 1866. He was supervisor of the 
town of Chester in 1882, and served on the board of education from 1902 to 1908. 
The store in Chester has been in the Jackson family for sixty-one years. His 
father's name was Thomas Jefferson Jackson. Ezra T. is a grandson of Captain 
John Jackson of the Revolutionary Army. He was commissioned February 28, 
1776, and re-appointed P'ebruary 26. 1778. In the proceedings of the provincial 
congress, April 25^ 1776, in the report on the state of the companies of the New 
York regiments. Captain Jackson reported with a full company at the fortifications 
of the Highlands, and on April 2y, 1776, he was appointed to Colonel Clinton's regi- 
ment. A return of the officers and men in garrison at Fort Montgomery, January 
''^. "^m, shows that Captain Jackson's Second New York regiment reported with 
twenty-nine men. Captain Jackson was with his regiment at the battles of Harlem 
Heights and White Plains. He resigned from the army March 12, 1783. 

FRANK AIKENS JACOBSON, M. D.. born Hackensack, N. J.. 1S64 : educated 
at Hackensack Academy and scientific department Columbia College; graduated 
New York Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital, 1888; one year at Home- 
opathic Dispensary and Hospital, Brooklyn. He has practiced in Newburgh, N. Y., 
since 1890; is a member American Institute of Homeopathy, New York State 



870 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Homeopathic Society, ex-member Newburgh board of health, Scottish Rite Mason 
and member of the Shriners. 

GEORGE W. JAMISON, publisher of the Pine Bush Herald, is a native of the 
town of Crawford, and attended the schools here and at Montgomery Academy. He 
was engaged for a number of years as a school teacher and was for a time in the 
insurance business in Walden. The Herald, in 1904, became the successor of tlie 
Pine Bush Ne7us, established in 1899. The paper is a clean, lively sheet of eight 
pages, independent in politics and devoted to local affairs. Mr. Jamison, the 
publisher, is also engaged in the real estate and fire insurance business. 

Socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity and a charter member of 
Walden Lodge, Knights of Pythias. He married Miss Julia N. Crist, of INIont- 
gomery, and they are the parents of one child, Hilda. 

JOHN JAQUES, who founded v;hat is now known as the Brotherhood Wine 
Company, at Washingtonville, came from New Jersey with his mother when a boy, 
locating in Washingtonville in 1812. He established the first grape vineyard in 
Orange County in 1839, and began the manufacture of pure wines. In 1858 his 
three sons, John, Orin and Charles, purchased the business from their father and 
continued it as partners until 186S, when John died. The two remaining brothers, 
conducted it until 1885, when Orin died, and a year later Charles disposed of it to 
Mr. Emerson, the present proprietor. Charles has since lived in retirement on the 
old homestead in the center of the village, and although in his eighty-fourth year, 
is actively interested in the affairs of the village. He has been an elder of the Pres- 
byterian Church since 1878. 

GEORGE FREDERICK JAYNE was born on the Jayne homestead, near 
Florida, called the "View Farm," February 23, 1854. His parents were Charles 
Marcus and Anna Eliza (Thompson) Jayne, and their children were Anna M., 
born July 25, 1843, wife of Charles R. Baird, of Warwick; Sarah Augusta, born 
July 10, 1848, wife of J. A. Seward, of Florida ; Mary Caroline, who died December 
25, 1875, was the wife of Nathaniel Seeley, of Hamburg, N. J., and Wells Thomp- 
son, born in January, 1852, of Brooklyn, N. Y. 

George Frederick Jayne obtained his education in Washington Academy, S. S. 
Seward Institute and one term in Yorkville, 111. He returned from school to the 
farm and assumed its management when only fifteen years old. It is a dairy farm 
of 180 acres, which has been in the Jayne family since 1730. Mr. Jayne is a demo- 
crat, and attends the Presbyterian Church in Florida. He married Julia E. Seward 
of Florida, February 14, 1877. They have six children : Fred Seward, born Novem- 
ber 10, 1877; Belle Clayton, born December 2, 1878, wife of John K. Roe, of 
Florida ; Lewis Marcus, born September 17, 1880, married Nellie Waite Smith, of 
Montgomery, December 18, 1907, and resides at Gardiner, Ulster County ; Anna 
Mary, born December 3, 1883 ; Carrie Louise, born February 17, 1886, and George 
Vanderoef, born March 19, 1890. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 871 

CHARLES L. JESSUP was born May 25, 1843, on the homestead farm, two 
miles from Florida, and was educated in the district school at Union Corners and 
the S. S. Seward Institute. He was one of thirteen children. He worked on his 
father's farm, and at the outbreak of the Civil War enlisted in the Ninety-first 
Regiment, Company H. After his army experience he resumed farming. He has 
two hundred and sixteen acres of land, a large dairy and peach orchard, and is a 
breeder of Holstein cattle. He has been town assessor and is an elder and active 
member of the Florida Presbyterian Church. His parents were Samuel and 
Martha Jessup. His wife was Sarah Jane Duryea, of Craigsville, Orange County, 
a daughter of Alfred and Mary Duryea. They were married October 18, 1865, and 
have four children living. Alpheus, born August 26, 1886; Julia B., born March 
12, 1868; Charles W., born June 10, 1871, and Helen, born February 14, 1886. 
Charles married Elizabeth Wheeler, of Florida; Julia married Alton J. Vail, of 
Middletown, and Alpheus married Sadie Durland, of Chester. 

SENECA JESSUP was born June 11, 18.17, in the town of Warwick, Orange 
Coutity, and obtained his education in the Seward Institute, Florida. His parents 
were Samuel and Hannah (Steinmetz) Jessup. The Jessups, of Orange County, 
are descended from John Jessup, who emigrated from Broomhall, Yorkshire 
County, England, in 1630. He lived for a time in Boston, and afterward removed 
to Hartford, and from there to Southampton. Long Island, in 1640, helping to 
plant the first English settlement in the state of New York. The Jessup family in 
Orange County came from Long Island in 1784, and located at Florida, town of 
Warwick. Seneca Jessup married Jennie A. McCain in 1868. She was born July 
27, 1850, and was a daughter of John Edsall and .Abigail (McCamly) McCain, both 
being from pioneer families, prominent in Colonial and Revolutionary times. Mrs. 
Jessup's parents removed to Goshen in 1853 and purchased the farm where she 
now resides. She received her education in the young ladies' school in Goshen. 
Mr. ?.nd Mrs. Jessup are the parents of four children, .only one of whom, John 
Seward Jessup, survives and he resided with them. Mrs. Seneca Jessup is 
descended from William McCain, a soldier in the Revolution, who came from 
the north ot Ireland in 1728 and located in the town of Warwick. 

WALTER WARE JOHONNOTT, D. C, born Burlington, Vermont, 1882; 
son of Fred and Harriet (Glover) Johonnott ; Huguenot ancestry; classical educa- 
tion at University of Vermont and Amherst College. He graduated from the Amer- 
ican School of Osteopathy, Kirksville, Mo., 1904; took post-graudate course Mas- 
sachusetts College of Osteopathy, and engaged in practice in Newburgh, X. Y., 
1905. Member of the American and New York State Osteopathic Societies, New- 
burgh City Club, Powelton Club and Church of Our Father (Unitarian j. 

L. .\. JOHNSON, who conducts a general mercantile business at Sparrowbush, 
N. Y., also dealing extensively in mining supplies and lumber, is a native of Tomp- 



872 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

kins County. N. Y. He enjoyed the advantages of a liberal education and was 
graduated from Cornell University in 1890 with the degree of A. B. 

Mr. Johnson married l^illian A., daughter of the late Henry F. West, of Spar- 
rowbush, and they are the parents of three sons. Mr. West was for many years a 
prominent business man in this commtmity. He built the store now occupied by 
Mr. Johnson and also carried on an extensive business in lumber, owning some 
twenty-eight hundred acres of timber land in Delaware County. In 1873 Mr. West 
married Miss Mary .Stanton, of Forestburg, N. Y. 

ROBERT JOHNSTON, county treasurer, was born in Newburgh, Orange 
County, N. Y. He is the son of William C. Johnston, one of Newburgh's oldest 
business men. The subject of our sketch has climbed the ladder of business suc- 
cess, rising from a position as bookkeeper in the hardware store of the late Mayor 
Charles J. Lawson to the presidency of a new corporation, the Johnston Hardware 
and Iron Co., successor of Charles H. Daughty. Mr. Johnston's business attain- 
ments strongly commend him for the responsibilities of the county treasurership. 
He is forty years of age, and an enthusiastic worker for the republican party. For 
six years he served as a member of the board of public works. 

WILLIAM C. JOHNSTON, who is numbered among the prominent merchants 
of Newburgh, has conducted a high-class harness and leather store in Water 
street for over half a century. Mr. Johnston was born and educated in Newburgh 
and learned the harness maker's trade with John R. Woolsey. He established his 
store January i, 1857, at its present location. He married Miss Margaret L. Camp- 
bell, and they became the parents of ten children. Three sons are in business in 
Newburgh: Robert, the present county treasurer, is a hardware merchant; W. 
Charles, who has a carriage repository on Broadway, and Renwick, who is engaged 
in the livery business. In religious affiliations Mr. Johnston is a member of the 
Westminster Reformed Church. 

EVAN E. JONES was born at Turin, Lewis County, N. Y., June 10, 1856. He 
attended the Union school at Turin, after which he engaged in farming, and con- 
tinued until June, 1902, when he came 4:o Orange County and conducted the John- 
ston Hotel at Newburgh. In April, 1906, he removed to Hamptonburgh, where he 
is now engaged in the hotel business. 

He married Emma M. Peck, of Turin, N. Y., January 12, 1886. They have no 
children. In politics Mr. Jones is a republican. 

ANDREW V. JOVA, M.D., Newburgh, N. Y., was born at Santa Clara, Cuba, 
March 23, 1859. He came to the United States in 1870, and entered St. John's Col- 
lege, New York, graduating in 1880 with the degree of A.B. In 1883 he graduated 
from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, which was supplemented 
by a two years' hospital'course in Paris, one year in Berlin and eight months at the 
clinics in Vienna. He then returned to America and was for eighteen months on 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 873 

the staff of the French Hospital, New York City. In 1891 he located in Newburgh, 
where he has built up an extensive practice. Dr. Jova is attending physician to 
St. Luke's Hospital, has been chairman of the medical board and is now a member 
of the board of managers of the same institution. He is a member of the various 
state and national medical societies. 

ISAAC KELLS, who was one of the most successful farmers in the town of 
Montgomery, Orange County, was of Scotch-Irish descent. He was born in the 
North of Ireland in 1833 ^"^1 died at his home, October i, 1907. He resided in 
Montgomery for nearly thirty-five years, cultivating a valuable farm of one hun- 
dred and fifty acres. Mr. Kells was actively identified with the Goodwill church, in 
which he was an officer. He was twice married ; by his first wife, who was Mis.": 
Elizabeth Ferguson, two daughters were born, Mrs. William Whigam and Mrs. Ella 
Hyndman, both residents of Montgomery. His second wife was Miss Delia Boyd, 
who died in 1905. Industrious and energetic the success of Mr. Kells was due en- 
tirely to his own efforts and he enjoyed in a high degree the esteem of his fellow- 
citizens. 

GEORGE W. KERR, who for more than half a century was an officer of on' 
of Orange County's strongest financial institutions, was born in Warren Counta 
N. J., February 15, 1810. His ancestors were originally from Scotland, but M' 
Kerr's father was born at Freehold, N. J. His parents removed to Ithaca, N. Y., 
where he obtained a position in the branch of the Bank of Newburgh. In 1830, when 
the branch was withdrawn, and the Bank of Ithaca established, Mr. Kerr entered 
the new bank and remained there until October, 1831, when a position was offered 
him in the Bank of Newburgh, with the officials of which he had become acquainted 
through his connection with the branch bank. 

In 1836 Mr. Kerr was promoted to the position of cashier, and in 1854 he was 
elected president to fill the vacancy caused by the death of John Chambers. In 
1864, when the old Bank of Newburgh was closed and the National Bank of New- 
burgh organized, Mr. Kerr was again honored with the presidency. He continued 
in that position till his death, having been cashier of the bank for eighteen years, 
and president for tliirty-seven years. He died June 3, 1890. 

Mr. Kerr was a trustee and vice-president of the village in 1856, and a member 
of the board of education in 1852- 1854. For forty-seven years he was a vestryman 
of St. George's Protestant Episcopal churcli, and for thirty-one years treasurer of 
the board. 

Upon his death the directors of the bank adopted the following minute: "His 
sound judgment, perfect integrity and eminent ability have been long recognized in 
financial circles, and his excellence in all the relations of life will long be remem- 
bered in this community. By us his immediate associates, and by all in any capacity 
attached to this bank, liis memory will always be cherished. He has left to his 
family and this community, where he lias spent so many years of a long and useful 
life, a legacy better than earthly riches — a good name." 



874 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

The vestry of St. George's church adopted resolutions recording "their very high 
esteem for his character and his lifelong devotion to the church and her interests. 
It is with grateful feeling that we remember the steady consistency of his Christian 
walk, his uprightness as a business man, his value as a citizen, his zeal as a church- 
man. We owe him no slight debt for his faithful service as our treasurer for 
thirty-one years, during which time his unflagging attention to the affairs of the 
parish has contributed essentially and in a large degree to its stability and pros- 
perity." 

Mr. Kerr was twice married. His first wife was Emeline Ross, his second, Mar- 
garet T. L., daughter of the Rev. John Brown, D.D. 

CHARLES KETCHAM, merchant and postmaster for many years at Mountain- 
ville, and representative citizen of the town of Cornwall, Orange County, is a son 
of Benjamin S. and Mercy (Brown) Ketcham, and was born on the homestead farm 
in 1847. He established his present store in 1871. Mr. Ketcham has for many years 
been prominently identified with the public afifairs of Cornwall. He has served'four- 
teen terms as supervisor, including a chairmanship of the board. He also held the 
office of justice of the peace twelve years. Mr. Ketcham was the opposing candidate 
of Judge Dickey, as a delegate to the constitutional convention. He was also the 
nominee of the democratic party for county clerk. He married Miss Ida, daughter 
of Captain Jacob Smith, of Cornwall. They are the parents of two sons and six 
daughters. 

The Ketcham family is one of the oldest in the town of Cornwall. Long previous 
to the Revolution, Samuel Ketcham, the great-great-grandfather of Charles, located 
here and was engaged in farming and the operation of a grist mill. His descend- 
ants through several generations settled around him, and the place was known as 
Ketchamtown, until the opening of the railroad, when the post-office was changed 
to Mountainville. 

THE KETCHAM FAMILY of the town of Mount Hope had for their progeni- 
tor the pioneer farmer and mechanic, John Ketcham, born at Huntington, L. I., Jan- 
uary 24, 1716. A lineal descendant of Edward Ketcham, the progenitor, in America, 
of all bearing the name Ketcham or Ketchum — who settled .^t Ipswich, Mass., in 1635 ; 
Southold, L. I., in 1653. Edward died at Stratford, Conn., in 1655, leaving in all 
seven children. John Ketcham (sixth generation in America) married Miss Sarah 
Matthews, of Morristown, N. J., came to Orange County, N. Y., and settled for 
a time in Hamptonburgh and Goshen, respectively, removed in 1774 to the present 
town of Mount Hope. He was the founder of Ketcham's Mills, near Mount Hope 
village. Here John Ketcham died April 21, 1794, and Sarah, his widow, departed 
this life in 1802. The homestead passing to the son Joseph, has continuously 
(1774-1907) been occupied by a Ketcham, present occupant, Isaac Emniett Ketcham, 
being a great grandson of Joseph. Last surviving grandson of said Joseph, bearing 
the family name, was the late John L. Ketcham, son of Joseph, Jr. (farmer, me- 
chanic and inventor), and like his ancestors also a mechanic of ability and promi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 875 

nence. Born February 22, 1820, lie married Xoveniber 14, 1844, Miss Harrictte 
Writer, also of the town of Mount Hope. She died August 30, 1870. John L. died 
June 10, 1898, is survived by tluir only child, Electa J. Ketcham-Penney, at present 
residing near Finchville. 

Less than a dozen families representative of this once large and widely influential 
family, are now living within their native town, Mount Hope. 

JOHN EGBERT KIDD, a retired farmer residing near Walden, N. Y., is a de- 
scendant of an old Orange County family. Going back over a century and a half, it 
is ascertained that three brothers, Alexander, Robert and Andrew Kidd, came from 
the North of Ireland in 1736, and secured a large tract of land in the vicinity of 
the present village of Walden. Alexander, the direct ancestor of our subject, mar- 
ried Jane Calderwood. Robert, their eldest son, married Mary McGowan, and their 
son Andrew in 1802 married a Miss Margaret Kidd and became the parents of six 
children, of whom John, the eldest, was born October 26, 1803, at the parental home- 
stead. He followed the occupation of a farmer and was prominent in public affairs 
of the town. He was highway commissioner a great many years, was a director 
of the Walden National Bank and held the office of railroad commissioner. 

In 1826 he married Miss Cornelia, daughter of Charles Haines, of Montgomery. 
Six children were born, Andrew, Mirza, John, Egbert, David L., Margaret A. and 
Victor. During the Civil War, John Egbert Kidd enlisted with the "Orange Blos- 
soms," the famous 124th Regiment, a review of which appears in the Military 
History in this volume. 

John E. Kidd was twice married. His first wife was Alice Decker, and the fol- 
lowing children were born: Cornelia (now the wife of George Wait), and one 
son John. Mr. Kidd's second wife was Maria Adeline Decker. 

BENJAMIN B. KINNE, M.D., is a native of Kirkville, Onondaga County, X. V.. 
where he was born March 2S, 1877. He was educated in the public schools of the 
state, including the high school at East Syracuse. He was a teacher in the county 
for four years, and studied for his profession in the American Medical Missionary 
College of Battle Creek, Mich., and Chicago. For nearly a year he was on the 
medical staff of the Pennsylvania Sanitarium at Philadelphia. 

Dr. Kinne came to Middlotown in 1905, and took the management of the Battle 
Creek Sanitarium Treatment Rooms on East Main street. Later these were re- 
moved to the Middletown Sanitarium on Benton avenue, where better facilities are 
offered for the accommodation of patients. The present building is large and 
pleasant, having all of the modern improvements, and is fully equipped with all the 
facilities for baths of various kinds, massage, electricity, x-ray, Swedish move- 
ments, and the care of surgical cases. 

GEORGE A. KIPP was born July 31. 1871, at Goshen, Orange County, X. Y., 
and attended the public school at that place. At the age of fifteen he learned the 
carpenter's trade with his father, and has always continued the business. He was 



8/6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

united in marriage to Clara Baker, of Middletown, N. Y., April 26, 1899. Four 
children were born to this union ; two died in infancy. The living are AUerton, 
born June 9, 1905, and Dorothy, born August 2.y, 1907. In politics Mr. Kipp is a 
democrat. His parents were Richard A., born March 3, 1838, and Mary Ann 
(Dailey) Kipp. They had six children, one dying in infancy. Richard was also 
engaged in contracting and carpenter business in Goshen, and conducted a 
milk business in New York previous to the Civil War. About 1862 he returned 
to Goshen, taking up his trade. He erected many of the best residences in and 
around Goshen, and died July 26, 1897. 

CHARLES ALBERT KNAPP occupies a farm of two hundred and seventy 
acres in the town of Goshen, which was first settled by William Knapp in 1749. Mr. 
Knapp's ancestry in this country is traced to Nicholas Knapp, who with his 
brothers, William and Roger, emigrated to America from Sussex, England, in 1630. 
His ancestors were prominent in military affairs during the colonial period. One, 
Isaac Knapp, was in the expedition to Canada under Sir William Phips in 1690. 
John Knapp, born 1664, died 1749 of Stamford, Conn., was captain of the train band 
in 1716. Nathaniel Knapp, of Newburgh, was in the second Louisburg expedition, 
1758-1759. Samuel Knapp, born 1695, died 1751, had a son Samuel, born 1722, and 
his son William and wife Margaret came to Goshen, N. Y., in 1749. They had nine 
children, of whom James and Samuel were killed in the Battle of Minisink, July 
22, 1779. James was forty-three years old and left a widow, whose maiden name 
was Hester Drake, and nine children, born between the years 1761-1779. Of these 
John Knapp (born August 24, 1765, died 1854), married Eunice Smith, of Goshen, 
and of their eleven children Virgil, the youngest, was the father of Charles Albert, 
who married Emma Linderman, and are the parents of three children, Jesse, Louis 
and Mabel. Jesse married Addie Crawford and Louis married Catherine Bull. The 
two sons are engaged in business in New York City. 

JAMES W. KNAPP was born at Pine Island, Orange County, December 22, 
1831, and died at the age of seventy-six. His wife was a daughter of Peter N. 
Ryerson, of Glenwood, N. J., and they were married October 21, 1855. Their six 
children are Mary, wife of F. E. Tither, of Florida, N. Y. ; Nicholas, of Belmont, 
N. Y. ; Charles, of Goshen, N. Y. ; William, of Pine Island ; J. Arthur, of Florida, 
N. Y., and Elizabeth, wife of Walter S. Seeley, of Middletown, N. Y. 

Mr. Knapp's father, William Knapp, died at the age of eighty-five. Peter N. 
Ryerson was born at New Vernon, N. J., September 9, 1814. His grandfather, 
Nicholas Ryerson, emigrated from Amsterdam, Holland, in 1801, and settled on 
Long Island. Mr. Knapp was a member of the Presbyterian church of Amity, and 
for six years served as town assessor. 

SAMUEL L. KNIFFIN, of Goshen, N. Y., was born at Chester in 1843. In 
1863 he came to Goshen with his parents, and learned the tinsmith trade under 
the tuition of his father, who for many years had charge of the tinning department 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 877 

for J. W. Corwin & Co. Mr. Knillin lias rcmaiiK-d in the same store, now ownctl 
by Kniffin & Hopkins, and for many years lias served as foreman of the tin shop. 
He married Sarah, daughter of Gabriel Bennett, of Goshen, and they have a 
daughter Carrie, who married Charles B. Coleman, of Goshen. Mr. Kniffin is a 
democrat and has served as town clerk of Goshen and for many years has been 
village tru^toc. 

WILLIAM KN'IFFIX, hardware merchant, of Goshen, N. Y., was born in Ches- 
ter, Orange County, in 1855. In 1863 his parents removed to Goshen, and his father, 
Samuel M., was tinner for J. W. Corwin & Co., there for many years. William se- 
cured employment in the same store in 1871, and in 1892 purchased a half interest 
in the business, the firm being know^n as Corwin & Kniffin. In 1902 Edward A. 
Hopkins purchased Mr. Corwin's interest and since that time the firm name has 
been Kniffin & Hopkins. In politics Mr. Kniffin is a democrat, and has served 
the town of Goshen as collector one term. 

CHARLES T. KNIGHT, a prominent citizen of Monroe, was born here in 1847. 
He is a son of Chauncey B. and Mary (Thompson) Knight; the latter a daughter 
of Rev. J. J. Thompson, died in 1908. As a young man Mr. Knight engaged with 
his father in the feed, coal and lumber business, and was a member of the firm of 
C. B. Knight & Co., organized in 1868, continuing until 1877, when he was asso- 
ciated for two years with the provision house of James A. Townsend at Newburgh. 
In 1879 the firm of Knight & Conklin was formed and continued the flour and 
feed business until 1899. Mr. Knight is now engaged in the business alone. In 
1897 he was appointed postmaster of the village which was then a fourth-class 
office. He was reappointed in 1900, when the office was placed in the third class, 
and was reappointed to the position in 1904 and 1908. Mr. Knight served one term 
as supervisor of the old town of Monroe and two terms of the new town. 

GEORGE KOHL, son of Valentine and Mary Ann (Zeigler) Kohl, natives of 
Germany, was born at Middlehope in 1876. After finishing his studies at the 
Newburgh schools he entered the general store established in 1869 by his father 
at Middlehope. In 1898 he engaged in his present mercantile business and a year 
later was appointed postmaster of the village, holding the position continuously to 
the present time. Mr. Kohl was collector of the town of Newburgh in 1902 and 
1903 and collector of the school district for seven years. He is accounted 
not only a thoroughly trustworthy official, but one of the best citizens of Middle- 
hope. Socially he is identified with the Newburgh Wheelmen. 

HENRY KOHL, corporation counsel of the city of Newburgh and member ot 
the law firm of McCIung & Kohl, was born in Middlehope in 1871, a son of Valen- 
tine and Mary A. (Ziegler) Kohl. After finishing his preliminary studies he read 
law in the office of Judge Seeger and was admitted to the bar in 1894. Mr. Kohl 



878 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

has built up a large clientage and has acquired especial success and prominence in 
criminal cases. 

Politically Mr. Kohl is a democrat and an ardent worker for the success of his 
party, which has honored him with the nomination for state and county offices. 

VALENTINE J. KOHLJ who is engaged in fruit farming at Middlehope, was 
born in the town of Newburgh in 1868, and was educated at the district schools. 
In 1897 he purchased his present farm of twenty acres, all of which is under 
cultivation, in connection with which he operates a cider mill, turning out 50,000 
gallons annually. Mr. Kohl held the office of town clerk four years and also served 
as school trustee. He is a member of the Grange and the Masonic Lodge No. 309, 
Newburgh, and L O. O. F. He married Charlotte P. Clauson and two children have 
been born to them. Valentine Kohl, father of our subject, was a prosperous mer- 
chant and farmer of Middlehope. He died in 1890. 

VALENTINE KOHL, for many years a prosperous merchant of Middle Hope, 
N. Y., was born at St. Martens-on-the-Rhine, Germany, where he refceived his 
schooling and learned the shoemaker's trade. Shortly after his marriage he 
sailed for America ; here he plied his trade for a few years, and then became 
interested in the mercantile business at Middle Hope, remaining thus engaged until 
his death, which occurred in 1890, while he was serving as postmaster. He was 
appointed to this office by President x\rthur and reappointed by President Har- 
rison, his term of service in this capacity extending from 1883 until 1890. He 
was accounted not only a thoroughly trustworthy official, but one of the best citi- 
zens of Middle Hope. 

Mr. Kohl was reared in the Catholic faith, but in mature life became 'convinced 
of the truth of protestantism and inclined toward the Methodist Episcopal tenets, 
being a regular attendant at the services of this church. His wife, who was Miss 
Mary A. Ziegler, was also a native of Germany. They became the parents of 
seven children, of whom • four sons are prominent citizens of Orange County, 
whose personal sketches are recorded in this history. 

WILLIAM J. KOHL, president of the Newburgh city council and former alder- 
man, of the Third ward, Newburgh, was born in Middlehope, Orange County, 
N. Y., May 17, 1874. He attended the public schools and graduated from the 
Spencerian Business College, Newburgh. He was employed for a time in the 
wholesale provision house of Coles, Marshall & Co., of that city, and in 1903 estab- 
lished his grocery store in South street, where he has met with much success. Mr. 
Kohl is identified with the Masonic fraternity, the Maccabees, Ringgold Hose Com- 
pany, a member of the Newburgh Wheelmen and the Mannerchor. He has always 
taken an active interest in the affairs of the democratic party. 

WILLIAM ALBERT KORTRIGHT was born at Phillipsburgh, Orange County, 
March 4, t866, and educated at the Port Jervis and Campbell Hall schools. He left 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 879 

iiis fatlier's farm and began learning tlie blacksmith trade in 1881, engaging in that 
business at Centerville in 1886, where he continued one year, and then started at 
Slate Hill, which he operated three years. In 1890 he started business in Florida, 
where he has since resided. He is a member of Wawayanda Lodge No. 34, I. O. 
O. F., the Florida Grange, and of the Methodist church. 

Mr. Kortright married Alice Halstead, of South Centerville, and they' have one 
child, Wardell, who is eighteen years of age. 

W. FRANK LAIN. — In the annals of the town of Minisink the name of Lain 
is a familiar one, as the various generations of this family have borne an honor- 
able part in the town's development. The first member to locate in Orange 
County was William Lain, who came from Long Island in 1770 and settled 
in the town of Minisink. His wife was Keziah, daughter of Increase Mather. 
Amoi^g their children was David, born in 1791. He spent his entire life on the 
home farm and died in his seventy-ninth year. 

Gideon Lain, father of W. Frank Lain, died in 1906. He married Mary Dun- 
ning and three sons and one daughter were born to them. W. F. Lain, who con- 
tinues the homestead farm of one hundred and seventy acres near Westtown, was 
born here in 1859; he finished his studies at the high school in Cincinnati. He is 
a member of the Grange, the Masonic fraternity and republican committeeman 
from the town of Minisink. 

ROBERT LAWRENCE was born in the city of Birmingham, England, in 1849, 
and he acquired his education at the public schools in Birmingham. His parents 
came to America in 1864 and settled in ]Middletown, Orange County. He was mar- 
ried to Amelia Thornton, of Spring Glenn, Ulster County, in 1872. They have 
three children living, Howard R., Cora B. and Ethel A. Mr. Lawrence has served 
the city in an efficient manner as alderman for several years and was president of 
the common council during the same period. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. ; 
was elected mayor in November, 1906, and is still occupying that office. Mr. Law- 
rence is a member of St. Paul's church and was superintendent of the Simday- 
school fourteen years. 

WILLI.\M S. L.WTON was born in Amity, Orange County, January 18, 1871. 
After completing his education he assisted on the farm, and has remained a farmer. 
His father was one of the first peach growers, for shipping in the town of War- 
wick, and his son William now has on his dairy and fruit farm of one hundred and 
fifty-seven acres, peach orchards containing four thousand trees of the best varie- 
ties. He is a republican, a school trustee, a member of Amity Grange No. loor, of 
Warwick, Lodge No. 544, F. and A. M.. and Wawayanda Lodge No. 34, I. O. O. F. 
He married Gertrude H., daughter of James H. and Catherine Miller, of Florida. 
February 3, 1892. Their five children, all at home, are Lawrence, born June 6, 1893 ; 
Edgar, born January 3, 1895; Lillian, born October 3, 1806: TTeKn, born December 



88o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

8, 1898; and William Gerald, born September 12, 1901. The father had one sister, 
Nettie E., wife of James A. Sammis, of Glenwood, N. J. She died in 1892. 

WILBUR C. LAZEAR was born in 1854 on his father's farm three miles from 
Warwick, near New Milford. His father was Cornelius Jones Lazear, and his 
mother's maiden name was Elmira Ferrier. In 1867 his father removed to War- 
wick and became a partner of Wa,lter Knapp, with the firm name of Knapp & 
Lazear, in the undertaking and furniture business. In 1872 he purchased Mr. 
Knapp's interest, and when his son Wilbur's schooling was finished, made him his 
partner. The father died January 10, 1892, and Wilbur has continued the business 
since. He married Miss Jennie Smith November 5, 1884. Their children arc 
Cornelius S., Belle, and Ida May. Mr. Lazear is a member of Warwick Lodge No. 
554, F. and A. M., and the Odd Fellows. Mrs. Lazear died February 11, 1906. 

MARTIN E. LEE, a retired farmer, and leading citizen of Westtown, was born 
in the town of Minisink in 1846. He is a son of Lewis and Experience (Teasdale) 
Lee. His mother was a daughter of ex-Judge Teasdale, of Sussex, N. J. Of his 
paternal ancestors his grandfather, Daniel Lee, participated in the War of 1812, 
and his great grandfather, Paul Lee, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Mr. 
Lee's life was devoted to the cultivation of a farm of one hundred and forty acres, 
which he now rents. He has always taken an active part in public affairs and is 
a member of the republican committee of the town of Minisink. He married 
Miss Alice, daughter of Dr. A. A. Seymour. One daughter, Rose, was born to 
them. She is now the wife of Philip H. DuBois, of New Paltz. 

ANDREW WRIGHT LENT, attorney of Newburgh and Highland, N. Y., is a 
junior member of the law firm of A. D. and A. W. Lent. He is a native of High- 
land, N. Y., and was educated at Union College, from which he graduated in 1904 
with the degree of Ph.B. He read law in the ofifice of his father, Abraham D. 
Lent and at Albany Law School, was admitted to the bar in 1906, and has since 
practiced in Newburgh. 

Abraham D. Lent was born at Clinton, Dutchess County in 1850, attended the Al- 
bany Law School, and was admitted to the bar in 1874. Mr. Lent practices at High- 
land, Ulster County, and has conducted a law ofifice in Newburgh since 1903. 

NELSON BURTON LENT, whose ancestors were among the earliest settlers 
of Westchester County, N. Y., author and publisher of the "History of the Lent 
Family in the United States, from 1638 to 1902," was born in the town of Court- 
landt, Westchester County, N. Y., May i, 1856, and educated in the public schools 
of his native town. His father was Nathaniel D. Lent, and his mother's maiden 
name was Rachel Lent. 

Among the families of Westchester County there is none stronger or more 
widely distributed than the old Dutch family of Lents. Abraham De Ryck, who 
emigrated to the United States from Amsterdam, Holland, to the Island of Man- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 88i 

hattan, in the year 1638, was the father of Ryck Abralianison, who took the name- 
of Van Lent. The name is supposed to have originated from a place called "Lcni" 
in Holland. 

Mr. N. B. Lent learned the trade of a compositor with the Highland Democrat 
in Peekskill, N. Y. He left Peekskill in 1880, and associated with his cousin, Wil- 
liam C. Tunstall, established and edited The Providence Register, a weekly news- 
paper at Scranton, Pa. He later sold out his interest to Mr. Tunstall, and returned 
to Peekskill. He was soon afterward called by the life-long printer and historian, 
E. yi. Ruttenber, Esq., to Newburgh, N. Y., and was employed by him in his job 
printing office. Since 1884 he has been connected with The Nczi'burgh Journal. 

Mr. Lent was instrumental in instituting the first Patriotic Order of the Sons of 
America in Newburgh, N. Y. He represented the order in the state and national 
conventions. He was a member of Acme Lodge of Odd Fellows of Newburgh, and 
its representative in the Grand Lodge in 1888. He was one of fourteen to organize 
Canton Woodward No. 32, Patriarchs Militant, and held the office of clerk, and 
was commissioned an aide-de-camp on the staff of General Otis Woodward, of 
the Division of Niagara, with rank of captain. He held all the offices of his lodge 
to district deputy grand master; has been for the past twenty-one years a member 
of Newburgh Lodge No. 309, F. and A. M. ; the Historical Society of the Newburgh 
Bay and the Highlands; the Empire State Society, Sons of the American Revolu- 
tion ; and the American Institute of Civics. 

Mr. Lent in politics is a republican. He was one of the United States Census- 
Enumerators for the city of Newburgh in 1900, and clerk to the engrossing com- 
mittee in the State Assembly at Albany, in 1901-1902. 

He married Miss Viola Frances, daughter of Herman and Mary Stone, of 
Danbury, Conn., December 23, 1881. They have six children, Bertram Nelson,. 
Win f red Foss, Roland Depew, Hobart Townsend, Sebring Round and Mildred 
Stone, all born at Newburgh, N. Y. Mr. Lent in religion is a Methodist, and ai 
member of Trinity M. E. Church, Newburgh. 

CHAUNCEY M. LEONARD was born in Newburgh in the year 1825, and in a 
house that occupied the site of the Bigler building at the corner of Third and 
Smith streets. He resided here until sixteen years of age, receiving his education 
at the Newburgh Academy. In early manhood he became a member of the old 
volunteer fire department of New York while learning his trade of painter. He 
was elected assistant foreman of the engine company. At the age of nineteen he 
married Miss Rebecca Smith, of New York City, who died two years afterward,, 
leaving a daughter, who married Thomas K. Rheutan. In 1848 he married Miss 
Hope Smith, a sister of his first wife, and had several children. 

In 1850 he returned to his native city and continued to reside here till his death 
He was employed as a painter by E. T. Comstock, and on Mr. Comstock's death 
in 1859, the firm of Ward & Leonard (Peter Ward and Chauncey M. Leonard) 
was formed. James J. Logan afterward being received into the partnership, the 
firm became Ward, Leonard & Co. 



882 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. Leonard joined Ringgold Hose Company, No. i, in 1853. He was elected 
assistant foreman, but his ability and experience as a fireman were such that he 
was called to fill a position of greater prominence. In 1861 he was elected chief 
engineer of the Newburgh fire department, and at each successive election there- 
after was re-elected to the same office, till March, 1874, when he was called to take 
the higher position of mayor of the city. 

In 1873 he was a delegate to the democratic state convention, and was an hon- 
orary member of the National Association of Chief Engineers. He was a member 
of the Masonic fraternity and well advanced in the degrees of the order. He died 
at his residence, 82 Ann street, Thursday, December 3, 1874. 

JAMES J. LEONARD, son of the late Chauncey M. Leonard, was born in New- 
burgh, N. Y., October 16, 1872. After graduating from the academy he entered 
the office of the Newburgh Register as bookkeeper, and from 1888 to 1907 was 
connected with the wholesale grocery house of Stephen M. Bull, when he formed 
a partnership with W. E. Doyle, and under the firm name of Doyle & Leonard is 
engaged in the wholesale grocery trade, continuing the business of Mailler & Doyle. 
Mr. Leonard has always manifested an active interest in politics and in 1903 was 
elected to the office of county clerk, serving until 1906. He is identified with the 
Masonic fraternity, president and director of the Wheelmen's Club, member of 
the City Club and the Ringgold Hose and Veteran Association and Newburgh Vol- 
unteer Association. He married Mary T. McQuillan, of Newburgh. They have 
two children, Chauncey M. and Marion H. 

EDWARD G. LITTELL was born in Elmira, N. Y., July 5, 1851. From his 
birthplace he went to Rahway, N. J., remained there several years, and then came 
to Greycourt, Orange County. He was a fireman on the Erie Railroad eleven 
years, had charge of the steam pumps twelve years, and later operated a saw- 
mill and general store. His great grandfather was Captain Pratt Littell and he 
was in the first skirmish against the British in the War of the Revolution. He 
lived in New Jersey at a place called Short Hills. 

Edward G. married Ida Bronk Hyte, of Greycourt. Their children are Elizabeth 
A., Edward D., of Los Angeles, Cal., William J., Harry M., Andrew H., Hattie 
L., Ida M. and Alfred K. The father is a member of Standard Lodge No. 711, 
F, and A. M. ; K of P. Lodge No. 363, of Chester, and the Grand Lodge of the 
State of New York. Mr. Littell has held the office of postmaster at Greycourt for 
nine years. He is a member of the Chester Horse Thief Association, and has 
served twice on the republican town board. 

WILLIAM T. LODGE, who has conducted the Empire House at Montgomery, 
N. Y., for thirty-seven years, is one of the representative and highly respected 
citizens of Orange County. Mr. Lodge was born in Ireland, March 26, 1836, and 
came to America when a lad of fifteen. He was engaged in farming from 1849 
to 1871, when he purchased his present hotel property. In politics Mr. Lodge is 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 883 

a democrat, and has for years exerted a great influence in the promotion of its 
interests. 

Socially he is identified with the Masonic fraternity, and is a director in the 
First National Bank of Montgomery. He was one of the organizers and is a 
supporter of the Episcopal Chapel, organized about six years ago in Montgomery. 
This chapel is a branch of the St. Andrew's Episcopal Church of Walden. 

Mr. Lodge married Miss Catherine Doyle in 1863, and three sons and three 
daughters have been born to them — William T. Jr., manager of the Empire 
House; Martin D. conducts a gents' furnishing store, and James A., proprietor of 
a sales stable for horses and cattle, all residing in Montgomery. 

WILLIAM LOEVEN was born at Honesdale, Pa., September 8, 1861. His early 
education was acquired at the public school. He removed to Orange County in 
March, 1891, and located at Middletown. 

He engaged in business on Fulton street, after which he removed to Otisville, 
in January, 1906, and purchased the hotel known as the Writer Hotel, which he still 
continues. He married Frances Gehrcr, of Honesdale, Pa., October 16, 1889. Their 
four children are William, Jr., Robert, Edward and Elizabeth, all residing at home. 
In politics Mr. Loeven is a democrat, and is a member of the F. O. E. Mr. and 
Mrs. Loeven are members of the Church of the Holy Name, of Otisville. 

CHARLES W. LOOMIS was born at Otisville, Orange County, N. Y. He is a 
son of Ephraim Smith Loomis, who was born May 22, 1801, and died February 
27, 1869. His mother died November 19, 1891. Charles W. attended the district 
school and assisted his father on the farm, which has been the Loomis homestead 
for over a century. He married Miss Phoebe A. Dunlap, daughter of Riley and 
Sarah E. Dunlap, November 28, 1886. Five children were born to this union, Iva 
Pamela, born February 17, 1887, died May 19, 1904; Antoinette Evelyn, born April 
17, 1888; Ephraim Smith, born November 9, 1890; Frank Kaufmann, born October 
2, 1894; and Sarah Irene, born February 14, 1898. 

In politics Mr. Loomis is a republican. He has held several local offices, being 
supervisor of the town fourteen years and justice of the peace ten years. He is a 
member of the Otisville Presbyterian Church and active in religious duties. He 
is identified with Hoffman Lodge No. 412, of Middletown, as a member. Mr. 
Loomis has a good dairy farm and makes a specialty of truck gardening. 

EPHRAIM BEEMER LOTT was born August 25, 1862, at Sussex, N. J. He 
attended the district school, after which he worked on a farm until 1887. He then 
identified himself with the Warwick Valley Milk Association, where he remained 
for sixteen years. He is now foreman of the Warwick branch of the Mutual Milk 
and Cream Co. He married Miss Emma Barrett, of Warwick, October 31, 1888. 
Two children were born by this union, Mary Lavina, living at home, and one who 
died in infancy. Mr. Lott is a member of Wawayanda Lodge No. 34, Odd Fel- 
lows, Independent Order of Red Men, Tuxedo Tribe, No. 322, and Orange Council 



884 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

No. 112, Jr. O. U. A. M. He is a member of the Methodist Church of Warwick. 
In politics he is a democrat. His father, John Hathorn Lott, died August ii, 1906, 
at the age of one hundred years eleven months and five days. There were ten 
children in his family by the first wife and nine by his second wife. He was a 
cooper by trade, and a great hunter of wild game. 

IRVING K. LOUGHRAN, attorney of Walden, N. Y., has for many years been 
prominently identified with commercial and public affairs of Orange County. He 
is a native of New York and read law with Henry H. Hustis, of Fishkill-on- 
Hudson. Since his admission to the bar in 1882 he has practiced law continuously 
in Walden. Mr. Loughran has held all the judicial offices in the town of Mont- 
gomery and for fourteen years was justice of the peace. He served for twelve 
years on the board of supervisors and two terms as chairman of the board. He is 
secretary and director of the Wallkill Valley Electric Co., secretary of the Wall- 
kill Valley Cemetery Association, secretary and director of the Schrade Cutlery 
Co. of Walden, and a member of the New York Bar Association. He has taken 
the various chairs in Masonry, including the Mystic Shrine, and is a member of 
the Newburgh Lodge of Elks and Walden Lodge, K. of P. 



JAMES B. LOVE, who in 1906 purchased the Dr. Ormsbee farm on the State 
road midway between Newburgh and the village of Montgomery, was born in New 
York City, and engaged in business there for many years. He married Miss Maggie 
Urey and they have two sons, James B., Jr., born January, 1905, and John Robert, 
born March, 1908. Mr. Love and his family, like many retired New Yorkers, enjoy 
the freedom of rural life in Orange County. 



HENRY C. LOVELAND was born October 13, 1853, at Chester, Pa. His father 
was William W. and mother, Lucinda M. (Atkins) Loveland. Twelve children 
were born to this union, nine boys and three girls. He obtained his early education 
at the district school at Chester, and later attended the public school at Napanoch. 
After his schooling he was employed in the rolling mills and in 1872 came to Mid- 
dletown, learning the machinist trade. In 1878 he associated himself with the 
Wheeler, Madden and Clemson Mfg. Co., of Middletown, remaining with this firm 
until 1890, then with Clemson Bros, for a period of seventeen years, after which 
he has been connected with the National Saw Co. He was married to Josephine 
Decker, March 29, 1877. They have two children. 

Stephen D., who married Nellie Clark, of Middletown, have two children, one 
son and one daughter, and Hattie, wife of George C. Brundage. Mr. Loveland is 
a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and A. M. ; Wallkill Council No. 92, Jr. 
O. U. A. M., and Olympia Council No. 14, D. of A. In politics he is a reptiblican, 
and has served the city faithfully as councilman. The Loveland family are of 
English descent and dates back to 1635 in America. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 885 

WARREN LOWELL was born in Troy, X. Y., and educated in Albany and 
New York City. He was engaged in the milk business for a time and was later 
employed by the Union Pacific Railroad. About 1876 he returned to New York 
City and associated himself with the Orange County Milk Co., of which he is now 
a director, and holds the offices of secretary and superintendent. The plant at 
Goshen has facilities for handling four hundred cans of milk daily. The various 
creameries owned by this company have up-to-date machinery for the condensing 
of cream. This company was organized in i860. Mr. Lowell is a member of 
Pyramid Lodge No. 490, F. and A. M. ; Union Chapter No. 180, York Commandery 
No. 55, and the Consistory, all of New York City. Politically he is a republican. 
He married Matilda D. Senior, of New York, September 16, 1885. 

OLIVER LOZIER, who is engaged in farming near Savilton, Orange County, 
was born in the town of Newburgh in 1837. He attended district school and the 
Newburgh Academy and engaged in farming until 1857, when he accepted a posi- 
tion as captain on the Newburgh ferry. In 1868 he removed to Savilton and pur- 
chased his farm of seventy-five acres. He has served as collector of the town one 
year and as supervisor six years. He married Elizabeth Hanmore and five children 
were born to them. His son, Frank E., is engaged in the management of the farm 
with his father. He married Miss May Palmer, of Ulster County; they have two 
children, one son, Elmore, and a daughter. 

HARRY ROSS LYDECKER, attorney of Newburgh and Brooklyn, was born 
in Yonkers, N. Y., March 4, 1869. Son of Albert and Martha B. (Morrison) Ly- 
decker; graduated 1887 from Mount St. Mary's Academy; read law in the office of 
Colonel William Dickey (now justice of the supreme court) ; admitted to the bar 
in 1893. He has served as counsel of the Newburgh Electric Railway Co. ; corpor- 
ation counsel of the town of New Windsor; town counsel of the town of Blooming 
Grove. 

In 1906 Mr. Lydecker opened a law office in Brooklyn, N. Y. In January, 1907, 
the law firm of Lydecker and Smith was formed with offices in Newburgh. Mr. 
Lydecker is a member of the commandery and chapter, F. and A. M. ; member 
of the Tenth Separate Company, the Canoe and Boating Association, the Royal 
Arcanum, Ringgold Hose and the Y. M. C. A. In 1891 he married Miss Minnie 
A. Brown, of Newburgh. Five children have been born to them. 

JOHN McCARTY was born of Irish parentage in Westchester County, N. Y., 
and moved to Brooklyn when eighteen years of age. His early desires were for 
mercantile pursuits, but he eventually entered the service of the city of Brooklyn in 
the municipal board of health. He later became a clerk to Justice Walsh, which 
position he retained for some years, relinquishing this eventually to become alder- 
man, serving on important committees while remaining in the board, and becoming 
also its presiding officer. He has dealt largely in Brooklyn real estate. He was 
nominated in 1891 to succeed John C. Jacobs, and was elected by over 16,000 plu- 



886 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

rality. Mr. McCarty was also a member of the committee on railroads, committee 
on insurance, manufactures, and was chairman of the committee on state prisons, 
and of the committee on public buildings. In politics he was a staunch democrat 
and represented the second senatorial district. He was a great admirer 
and owner of many fine horses, among them being Joe Patchen, which he pur- 
chased in 1889, since which time that noted horse has been kept at his stables at 
Goshen, N. Y. John McCarty was a son of Hugh McCarty, born in 1815 at County 
Down, Ireland, where he received a common school education. He came to 
America in February, 1834, and learned the mason trade at an early age. Returning 
to his native country he married Sarah Rogers, also of County Down, Ireland. He 
at once returned to America, settling in Westchester County, N. Y. He was largely 
identified with the building of High Bridge connecting New York and Harlem. Mr. 
McCarty was contractor for the masonry and personally laid the corner stone of 
the bridge. The trowel used in laying the cornerstone is now in possession of his 
daughter. Mr. McCarty owned his own quarries and the stone used in the High 
Bridge was transported on his own sloops for this as well as the Brooklyn navy 
yard and other contracts. He was a philanthropic man and gave large contribu- 
tions to St. Mary's-on-the-Hudson at Cold Spring. There were five children born 
to the union, Ellen, John, Mary, Thomas and Sarah A. The latter now resides at 
their summer home in Goshen and in Brooklyn during the winter months. He 
married Marguerite I. Murphy, of New York City, and died October 20, 1905. 

HON. BENJAMIN McCLUNG, mayor of the city of Newburgh, N. Y., and a 
prominent member of the Orange County Bar, was born in the town of New Wind- 
sor in 1867, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Upright) McClung. After finishing his 
preliminary education at the Newburgh Academy and Siglar's Preparatory School, 
he entered the law department of the University of New York, graduating in 1891 
with the degree of LL.B. Mr. McClung practiced law in New York City for a 
short time, and in the same year, 1891, opened an office in Newburgh. He was for 
a time associated in practice with Hon. Russell Headley and in 1906 the law firm 
of McClung & Kohl was formed. 

For many years Mr. McClung has been prominently identified with the affairs 
of the democratic party, which nominated him for member of assembly. In 1907 he 
was selected to head the democratic ticket in Newburgh, and November 5 was 
elected mayor by the substantial majority of 574 votes. Mayor McClung was in- 
augurated March, 1908, the first democrat to occupy that office in a period of 
eighteen years. 

Socially he is identified with the Masonic fraternity, the Elks, Foresters and the 
City Club. 

JOHN D. McCOACH, chief of police of the city of Middletown, was born in 
Bethel, Sullivan County, N. Y., in 1876 and educated at the public schools in 
Bethel, where he graduated. He came to Middletown in June, 1896, in his twenty- 
first year, and after serving six years as driver of a mail wagon, which duty he 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 887 

faithfully performed, he was appointed patrolman on the Middletown police force. 
In 1907 he was appointed chief of the Middletown police, which position he now 
holds. Politically he is a republican. Socially he is a member of Hoffman Lodge 
No. 412, F. and A. M., and Midland Chapter No. 240, R. A. M. He married Miss 
Lucy Barber, of Monticello, Sullivan County, and of this union two children have 
been born, Elmer E., born June 21, 1904, and Mildred O., born October 10, 1905. 
As befits one in his position Mr. McCoach is a man of varied learning and accom- 
plishments, and withal a man of affairs, of keen perception and fair-minded. He 
is particularly well informed in local and Masonic matters. 

ROBERT WORKMAN McCREADY, a prominent contractor at Tuxedo Park, 
is a resident of Sloatsburg, Rockland County. Mr. McCready was born at Bel- 
fast, in the North of Ireland, in 1862, a son of James and Mary (Mcllveen) 
McCready, of Scotch descent. He attended the schools of Belfast and in 1882 re- 
ceived his certificate from the Government School of Art. He then spent a year 
with Harland & Wolf, shipbuilders, obtaining his certificate as joiner. In 1884 
he came to Fall River, Mass., where he was employed as a carpenter one year. 
After a visit to his native place he again came to America in 1886 and was em- 
ployed by Mead & Taft at Tuxedo. Two years later he formed a co-partnership 
with William M. Finch to conduct a general contracting and building business 
under the firm name of McCready & Finch. Their business developed rapidly 
and employment given to from three to four hundred men, erecting many of the 
most substantial buildings in Tuxedo Park, including the homes of Ambrose 
Monell, W. B. Densmore, W. B. Garrison, J. Henry Smith, a private school in 
the Park costing $35,000, and the $30,000 school in the village. He also rebuilt 
the Episcopal church. In 1905 Mr. McCready purchased Mr. Finch's interest in 
the business and is now conducting it alone. Mr. McCready has now under con- 
tract to erect in Tuxedo Park a residence for C. W. Clinton, of the firm of 
Clinton & Russell, architects, of Nassau street. New York; a Methodist church at 
Sloatsburg, an extension to William M. V. Hoffman's house, and alterations to 
A. D. Juliiard's house. Tuxedo Park. 

Mr. AlcCready is a member of numerous fraternal organizations, including 
Scottish Rite Masons and the Mystic Shrine. In 1889 he married Mary, daughter 
of John Finch, of Sloatsburg. They have two children — Olive and Robert 
Halsey. 

JOHN W. McCULLOUGH, who for many years was engaged in the tobacco 
business in Water street, was born in Newburgh in 1819 and died in 1892. After 
finishing his studies at the high school he learned the tobacconist trade and engaged 
in the wholesale and retail business for himself at 93 Front street, in 1845, where 
he continued until 1873, when he purchased the premises at 68 and 70 Water street, 
where the business was continued by his son, John R. McCullough, up to the time 
of his death, July 31, 1907. Mr. McCullough was for many years an elder in the 
First Reformed Presbyterian Church, and also performed the duties of treasurer. 



888 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE 

In his long business career in his native place Mr. McCullough's name was a 
synonym for integrity and honorable dealings. John R. McCuUough was born 
July 15, 1846. He was engaged in the drug business for a few years on Broad- 
way, previous to engaging in the tobacco business with his father. He was a di- 
rector of Quassaick National Bank, and Woodlawn Cemetery Association. He 
was treasurer of Union Church, and president of the board of water commissioners. 
He married Miss Marion Muir, who died September 18, 1900. Four children 
were born to them. John W., Jr., died November 6, 1888. Frederick R. continues 
the tobacco business in Water street. 

FRED S. McDowell, supervisor of the town of Newburgh, was born in New- 
burgh in 1865; a son of James and Agnes (Frew) McDowell. As a young man he 
was engaged in the butchering business with his father and then entered the em- 
ploy of Armour & Co. for two years as salesman, following which he conducted 
a meat market on Broadway three years. Since 1893 he has been one of the pro- 
prietors of the Newburgh Rendering Co. 

Mr. McDowell is prominent in fraternal organizations. He is past master of 
Newburgh Lodge, F. and A. M., a member of Highland Chapter, Hudson River 
Commandery and the Mecca Temple. He is also past grand of Acme Lodge, L O. 
O. F., and in 1907 was chosen district deputy of Orange District No. i of the Odd 
Fellows. He married Miss Jennie Whitaker, of New Windsor. 

RALPH L. McGEOCH, M.D., a successful physician, residing and practicing 
in Goshen, N. Y., was bo;rn at Shushan, Washington County, N. Y., December i, 
1867. He was educated at Cambridge Washington Academy and Fort Edward 
Collegiate Institute. He entered the New York Homeopathic College in 1891 and 
graduated May 3, 1894, after which he came to Goshen, where he has since prac- 
ticed. Dr. McGeoch is a member of the New York State Homeopathic Medical 
Society, the Tri-County Homeopathic Medical Society, the Orange County Medi- 
acl Society, the New York State Medical Association, and the New York Homeo- 
pathic Alumni Association. On June 9, 1897, he was joined in marriage with Sarah 
W. Coleman. 

JAMES D. McGIFFERT, clerk of Orange County, N. Y., was born and edu- 
cated in Newburgh. As a young man he was employed by the Oakley Soap Co., 
in Washington street. Since he became a voter he has manifested an active in- 
terest in politics, the first office to which he was elected being that of assessor 
from the First Ward. He served as city collector of Newburgh from 1897 to 1906. 
In his dealings with the public in this capacity he was uniformly courteous and 
considerate. He was for two years master of Newburgh Lodge No. 309, F. and 
A. M., and its secretary ten years. He is excellent high priest of Highland Chap- 
ter No. 52, R. A. M. ; also a member of Hudson River Commandery No. 35, Knights 
Templar. He is prominently identified with the Odd Fellows and firemanic 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 889 

circles. He was elected to the office of county clerk November, 1906, running over 
a thousand votes ahead of his ticket. 

HENRY JAMES McKINNEY, was born at the family homestead in the town 
of Crawford, Orange County, April 10, 1854, and died at his residence in Pinci 
Bush, X. v., September 24, 1907. He was the third son of Luther and Maria 
(Morrison) McKinney. Following the death of his father he bought the homo- 
stead and continued thereon until 1892, when he removed to Pine Bush. In 1895 
he engaged in the lumber, feed and coal business, which he conducted w'ith much 
success for nearly twelve years, his business career being marked by courtesy and 
sterling honesty. On September 7, 1892, he married Miss Kate Woodworth Ra- 
pelye, who with three daughters survive him. 

Mr. McKinney always manifested an active interest in the moral and intellectual 
advancement of his community. His death entailed the loss of a public-spirited citi- 
zen and Christian gentleman. 

JOHN L. McKINNEY, postmaster at Pine Bush, was born on the homestead 
farm in the town of Crawford, Orange County, March 6, 1856; a son of Luther 
and Maria (Morrison) McKinney. He attended the schools of his native town 
and two terms at Professor Bank's private school in Newburgh. He has been en- 
gaged in business at Pine Bush since 1886. His first venture there was in conducting 
the flour mill, in which he continued five years. In 1891 he became a member of the 
firm of Armstrong & McKinney, dealers in general merchandise and drugs, where 
he remained about eight years. He then formed a partnership with Mr. J. E. 
Ward in the conduct of a hardware store. In 1904 he purchased Mr. Ward's in- 
terest and continues the business alone. Mr. McKinney, who is prominent in 
republican politics, received the appointment of postmaster under President Mc- 
Kinley, June 28, 1897. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, in which he 
has served as elder for many years. 

WILLIAM L. McKINNEY, a respected citizen of Montgomery, N. Y., has been 
identified with the affairs of that village for nearly half a century. He was born 
in the town of Montgomery in 1825, a son of Benjamin W. and Hannah (Hunt) 
McKinney. He has resided in the village since 1845 and in 1854 married Eliza 
Tindall, a member of one of Orange County's old families. One child, who died 
in infancy, was born to them. In 1860 Mr. McKinney was elected trustee of the 
village and in 1862 was appointed president of the corporation, holding that office 
three years, when he was appointed clerk of the village, which position he faith- 
fully occupied for thirty-six years, resigning in i9or, since which time he has lived 
in retirement. His counsel is frequently sought in matters pertaining to the vil- 
lage. Mr. McKinney has been a member of the Presbyterian Church since 1867. 

ROBERT J. McVOY, deceased, was one of the prominent agriculturists of Orange 
County. He was of Irish parentage. His father Hugh and mother Martha (dlas- 



890 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cow) McVoy came from Ireland at an early period. Robert was born July 12, 
1847, at Jackson's Corners, what was then Goshen. He attended the district and 
public school at Goshen, and assisted his father on the farm until the age of 
eighteen years. He rented farms at Bullville, Stony Ford, and Hamptonburgh suc- 
cessively for twenty-one years. He then purchased the late Theodore Jackson's 
farm, remaining there until his death, which occurred April 26, 1895. Mr. Mc- 
Voy was united in marriage to Miss Alnetta Pierson Gillespie, of Montgomery, 
June 10, 1885. Two children were born by this union, Charles Felter, born August 
21, 1886, and Sarah Maretta, born September 14, 1888, both residing at home. Mr. 
McVoy was a member of Wallkill Lodge, F. and A. M., and Court Wallkill, For- 
esters of America. He was a democrat and served as town collector several terms. 



EDWARD MAIDMENT, of Warwick, was born at Shropshire, England, in 
1840, and came to America with his parents when six years ^of age. The family 
located in Albany, where his father, Edward, established a bakery and confec- 
tionery business. He built up a large business and during the Civil War supplied 
the government with his goods. 

Edward graduated from the Seward Institute as a civil engineer and for many 
years was in the engineering department of the N. Y. C. R. R. He later became 
manager for the Raritan Woolen Mills Co. and resided in Chicago. Since 1904 he 
has lived in retirement on his farm, the old Galloway homestead, in Warwick. He 
married Louisa Galloway and has three children, Alexander H. G., a lawyer of 
Hackensack, N. J. ; Edward P., manager for Krause Milling Co., Milwaukee, Wis., 
for eastern New York and northern New Jersey, who resides at the homestead and 
also conducts a dairy business. 

Alexander H. Galloway, Mrs. Maidment's father, was for many years one of 
Warwick's most important and progressive citizens, and promoted many financial 
institutions. He established the first creamery in Warwick, known as the Warwick 
Valley Milk Association. He was also interested in all social and religious projects. 
He died in 1884, survived by his wife, Hannah Louisa, who died March 9, 1907, 
aged ninety years. 

W. H. MAILLER, senior member of the firm of W. H. & G. B. Mailler, was 
born in Cornwall in 1861. His father, Charles C. Mailler, was engaged in farming 
at Mountainville. After W. H. finished his schooling he spent two years in Brook- 
lyn, and for a like period was in the employ of Samuel Ramsay. On April i, 1886, 
he established his present meat market and in 1888 his brother George B. became 
a partner. Mr. W. H. Mailler married Miss Sophia J. Preston and three sons 
have been born to them. He has served as trustee of the village and school boards ; 
also of the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and 
the Order of American Mechanics. For twenty years he has been trustee of the 
local fire company. George B. Mailler is also actively identified with affairs of 
Cornwall village, and is a director of the Cornwall Savings Bank. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 891 

CHARLES E. MANCE, member of assembly from this district, was born in 
Ulster County, November 2S, 1852, the place of his birth being then called Mance 
Settlement and now Cragsmoor. He came to Middletown with his parents when 
fourteen years of age, and has since that time made that city his home. After his 
district school education he attended the Middletown Public School. He served 
an apprenticeship in sign and ornamental painting, and later became a partner of 
H. J. Randall, with the firm name of Randall & Mance, which ended in 1878, when 
he was made assistant foreman in the painting department of the New York, On- 
tario & Western Railroad, and in June, 1883, was appointed master painter. His 
public service began with his election on the republican ticket as alderman from 
Middletown's Second ward in 1892. He was chosen president of the common 
council, and as such became acting mayor, after the death of Mayor Berry in 1897, 
for one year and four months. In 1900 he was elected mayor and served two terms. 
In 1906 the republicans elected him member of assembly and Speaker Wadsworth 
appointed him on the committees of agriculture, federal relations and fish and 
game. He is a member of Lancelot Lodge No. 169, K. of P., the Old Orchard 
Club, and an honorary member of Eagle Chemical Engine Co., of which he was 
foreman four years, and was first assistant chief of the Middletown Fire Depart- 
ment two years. He married Miss Augusta, daughter of Angus and Maria Taylor, 
May 28, 1874. They have two children, Frank A., who married Miss Belle For- 
rester, of Providence, R. L, and Mabel, wife of D. H. Ackerman, of Passaic, N. J. 
Charles *E. is the only living of the seven children of John S. and Margaret 
Wilkinson Mance. 



HIRAM G. MANN was born in 1839, July 11, at Florida, Orange County. His 
father was Hiram, and mother, Phoebe Cherry. They had eleven children. When 
Mr. Mann was ten years old his parents moved to Bellvale, Orajige County, locat- 
ing on a farm. Mr. Mann, in connection with farming, does pruning and rustic 
work, and his work may be seen at many of the finest places in Warwick and vi- 
cinity. He married Anna Royce, of Bellvale in 1863, March 18. Seven children 
have been born to this union and only one is living, Charles Mann, residing in New 
York, who follows civil engineering as a profession. 

Mr. Mann takes an active part in local affairs and has been an ardent worker in 
politics. He is a republican, but never aspired to office. He served his country in 
the Civil War from September 10, 1861, to December 9, 1865. He is a member of 
the G. A. R. 

ALBERT MANNING was born in the town of Greenville, Orange County, 
February 2, 1864. He attended the district school and graduated from the Port 
Jervis Academy in 1883. He taught school for three years, after which he was 
engaged in New York City for a period of six years in the manufacturing of bank 
and office fixtures. In 1897 he returned to the homestead, and assumed the man- 
agement of the farm. Mr. Manning married Miss Hattie E. Green, daughter of 



892 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Osmer B. Green and Harriet A. Thorn, of Otisville, N. Y., September 20, 1888. 
To this union one son, Frank LeRoy, was born, March 4, 1898. 

Socially Mr. Manning is a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and A. M., of 
Middletown, Concordia Council, Roj'al Arcanum and Modern Woodmen of 
America. He is master of Pomona Grange of Orange County. His father, 
Ephraim Manning, was born in the town of Greenville, this county, December 11, 
1839, on the old homestead, which was purchased by Benjamin Manning, his grand- 
father, wh^o was of English descent. After completing his studies in the common 
school Ephraim attended the academy at Mount Rose, Pa. 

He married Miss Caroline A. Rundle, of Greenville, November 21, 1861. To 
this union were born two children, Albert and Eva K., wife of Abraham Wyekoff, 
residing in New Jersey. 

HULET MANNING, a successful agriculturist residing in the town of Green- 
ville, was born in that town August 2, 1843. He is a son of John and Mary Ann 
(Smith) Manning, and has always resided on the farm formerly owned by his 
.father. Mr. Manning is a member of Shawangunk Grange of Greenville, and a 
director of the Patrons of Husbandry, Fire Relief Association of Orange and 
Ulster Counties. In politics he is a republican and cast his first vote for Abraham 
Lincoln. He married Elizabeth M., daughter of Alexander Remey, of Greenville, 
on December 23, 1864. Four children were born to this union, Hattie A., married 
Clement Van Etten, a farmer in Greenville ; J. Edgar married Elsie Roberts, of 
Montclair, N. J., and is in business in New York ; Mary A. married Bartow W. 
Bull, a farmer at Stony Ford, N. Y., and Clara D. married Theron Shute, .a 
farmer in Greenville. 

CHARLES WILLIS MANY, M.D., born May 10, 1868, at Goshen, Orange 
County, N. Y., is the son of Charles Matthews Many and Eliza Anna Francisco ; 
grandson of John Vicary Many and Jane Howell Johnson, great grandson of 
Peter Johnson and Bethia Horton, and great-great-grandson of Thomas Horton 
and Susana Conklin. Thomas Horton acted as captain in Lieutenant-Colonel 
Marvin's regiment. Mr. Many is also great grandson of Barnabas Many and Mary 
Vicary and great-great-grandson of Annie Everet and Barnabas Many; the latter 
was a private soldier in the Revolutionary War. He assisted in signing articles of 
association in 1775 and served on the committee of safety and observation. When 
Mr. Many was one year old his family moved to Brooklyn, where he received his 
early training in the public schools and in Stafford private school. His mother 
died when he was sixteen, after which time he traveled extensively with his father. 
He began to read medicine very early in life and after leaving Brooklyn attended 
school at Wesleyan Academy, Wilbraham, Mass. He also attended the Long Island 
College Hospital, from which he graduated in the year 1894. On his graduation 
from the medical college he received a special diploma in physical diagnosis. He 
began practice immediately. In 1888 he married Miss Wilhelmina Martin, of Lib- 
erty, N. Y., whose ancestors were among the iirst to settle in Sullivan County. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 893 

They soon afterward took up their residence in Florida, N. Y., where they have 
since remained. His three children are Lillian Grace, Clinton Alpheus and Myrtle 
June Many. Dr. Many has become medical examiner for the leading life insur- 
ance companies and in 1905 was appointed town physician. He is a member of the 
State Medical Association and the Orange County Medical Society. He is also 
a member of tlie Empire State Society of the Sons of American Revolution. In 
1889 Dr. Many joined the Warwick Masonic Lodge, serving as senior deacon in 
1900, senior warden in 1901, master in 1902-1903, assistant grand lecturer in 1904, 
and district deputy grand master in 1905-1906. It was during the last-named period 
that initiative steps were taken for the establishment of Lorillard Lodge at Tuxedo 
Park, a matter in which he was greatly interested and for which he labored dili- 
gently. In 1903 he was admitted to membership in Highland Chapter No. 52, 
R. A. M., Newburgh, X. Y. 

.•\. W. MAPES, secretary of the Coldwcll Lawn Mower Co., of Newburgh, was 
born in the town of Blooming Grove, his father, the late Edward Mapes, removing 
to Newburgh in 1854. Mr. Mapes is a graduate of the Newburgh Academy, class 
of 1857. His business education was acquired in the Highland Bank of Newburgh. 
While so employed he married Sarah E., daughter of the late John Parsons. This 
was at the beginning of the Rebellion, and soon after marriage he entered the 
United States Navy as paymaster's clerk. His war record runs from March 10, 
1862, until September 30, 1866. A portion of this time was spent at the Brooklyn 
Navy yard, to which he was detailed because of his thorough knowledge of ac- 
counts. 

During the later years of the war, and for over a year after its close he was 
attached to the United States frigate "Susquehanna." Upon resigning from the 
Navy he engaged in the mercantile business in New York City until 1883, when he 
returned to Newburgh as a member of the firm of Barnes & Mapes, provision 
dealers, at 62 and 64 Water street. 

Mr. Mapes's health having cecome impaired, this parentrship was dissolved in 
December, 1890. After a year's rest, Mr. Mapes again entered business life by 
assisting in the organization of the Coldwell Lawn Mower Co., of Newburgh. 
From the beginning of this business he has been a director and has taken an active 
part in building up a large trade. He attends especially to the New England and 
foreign branches of the business, spending the autumn montlis traveling through- 
out the eastern states and about four months each winter and spring in Europe. 

ELMER L. MAPES was born on the homestead farm near Middletown, October 
27, 1885. He attended the public school at Middletown, after which he worked 
at the glass cutting trade for two years. In connection with A. M. Horton he pur- 
chased the retail cigar and tobacco business of G. W. Bross. This partnership 
continued until November, 1907, when Mr. Mapes purchased Mr. Horton's interest 
and has since conducted the business. He married Miss Grace M. Wells, of Elniira, 
N. Y., June 2"], 1907. Their one child, Erdean Harriett, was born June 13, 1908. 



894 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. Mapes is a member of Wallkill Council No. 92, Jr. O. U. A. M., and the Wall- 
kill River Grange. In politics he is independent. 

NELSON B. MAPES, whio for the past fifty years has held the position of 
station agent for the Erie Railroad at Hcwells, Orange County, was born in the 
town of Wallkill, March 19, 1829. His father was John V. and mother Mary 
(Reeves) Mapes. Of their children Jeannette married Stephen Mapes, of Mount 
Hope, N. Y. ; Albert Mapes living in Middletown, N. Y. ; Nelson B. married Lu- 
cinda Mapes in 1853. Mr. Mapes served as justice of the peace in District No. 2 
in the town of Wallkill for thirty years. With the Congregational Church our 
subject holds membership and has been an active member of the Howells Church 
for sixty years. Mr. Mapes was born on the farm and owned a farm previous to 
entering the employ of the Erie Railroad. 

His father was an agriculturist and belonged to the Whig party. During the 
Civil War Mr. Marpes read the papers and dispatches to the crowd that always 
congregated at the depot to receive news from the front. 

ROBERT D. MAPES was born at Howells Depot, Orange County, N. Y., Sep- 
tember 14, 1862. He was reared on the home farm where he remained 
until 1886. In 1877 he engaged in the milk business in Middletown with his father, 
which partnership continued until 1886. He then purchased the interest of his 
father and continued the business alone until 1901. He is now in the 
livery business which he established in 1900. He married Miss Margaret Isabella 
Axford, of Howells, in 1886. She died March 24, 1901. He was again 
married June 15, 1902, to Hannah Eleanor Thompson, of Akron, Ohio. In politics 
he is a republican and takes an interest in matters pertaining to the town. He 
has served at different times as inspector of election. 

SAMUEL MAPES, SR., on the 14th day of February, 1735, came to this town 
and settled on a portion of a tract of land of six hundred and forty acres, a por- 
tion of which the railroad station at Howells is now located on. He descended 
from a family originally immigrants from Wales, and since his settlement here the 
different generations have been noted for the great longevity of the members of 
the various families. It was nothing unusual to hear that many of them lived 
beyond eighty years, and frequently beyond ninety, and Selah R. Corwin, of Mid- 
dletown, whose mother was Priscilla Mapes, was born December 29, 1809, and is 
now active and can be seen upon the streets almost any clear day at this time. 

The name carried with it the characteristics of sturdiness, honesty and piety, 
and not inclined to seek public office. 

At one time the family was so numerous that a portion of the town of Mount 
Hope was called Mapestown, but that name long since disappeared; however, there 
are many of their descendants yet living in this vicinity, although a large number 
are engaged in business in various other states. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 895 

JESSE DURLAND MARS, a successful medical practitioner, and one of the 
youngest in this profession in the county, was born September 7, 1880, at Bellvale, 
Orange County, N. Y. His parents, when the boy was still at an early age, re- 
moved to Florida, N. Y., where they reside at the present time. He first attended 
school at the Florida Academy, later entering the S. S. Seward Institute, from 
which he graduated in 1898. The two years immediately following were spent in 
teaching in order to prepare himself financially for college. In the fall of 1900 
the young man entered the medical department of the University of Micliigan. He 
always maintained a high average in his medical course and at his graduation in 
June, 1904, stood among the first in a class of one hundred. He successfully com- 
peted for an interneship in the University Hospital at Ann Arbor, Mich., and spent 
the year 1904-1905 in that capacity. In order to further round cut his medical 
knowledge and experience a six-months' course in the Metropolitan Hospital in 
New York City was entered upon. Later on he was resident physician in the 
Jamaica Hospital, at Jamaica, Long Island. 

At the beginning of the year 1906 Dr. Mars returned to Florida, where he had 
spent his youth, and began the practice of his chosen profession. He soon identified 
himself with the Orange County Medical Society, the New York Medical Society, 
and the American Medical Association, in all of which he is actively interested. 

His father, Stephen Mars, was born in Germany in 1843. When twenty-two years 
of age he came to America, located in Orange County, and engaged in farming. 
In 1872 he married Annie Mary DeGraw, a native of Orange County. Eight chil- 
dren were born to this couple, Jesse D., the subject of this sketch, being the fifth. 

On December 10, 1907, Dr. Mars married Estelle Otis, the second youngest 
daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth W. Otis. The Otis family is among the earliest 
residents of Orange County, the ancestors of Mrs. Mars having come over in the 
Mayflower. Dr. and Mrs. Mars now occupy the property of the late James A. Boyd. 



JAMES G. MARTIN, of Middletown, was born of Irish parentage in Dublin, 
Ireland, February i, 1852. He is a son of John and Ann Martin. His father and 
also his grandfather were architects and builders in the old country. His father 
died in Australia about 1880. The subject of this sketch was educated at Clonges- 
wood College in Dublin, Ireland. He came to America in 1869, settling in Middle- 
town, Orange County. He identified himself with Howell Hinchman & Co., re- 
maining there a brief period, and then worked as journeyman at the moulder's 
trade for four years. In 1891 he formed a partnership with Thomas H. Butler and 
under the firm name of Butler & Martin built the present commodious shops. 
After a year Mr. Martin purchased his partner's interest and has since continued 
the business alone. In November, 1871, he married Miss Mary A. Cunningham, 
of Middletown; her death occurred in October, 1886. Five children were born 
by this union. He chose for his second wife Mrs. Annie (Houston) Kilbride, of 
Middletown, and they are the parents of two children. In local politics Mr. Martin 
takes an active part. He is a democrat and has served as supervisor. He is a 



896 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

member of the Port Jervis B. P. O. E. No. 645, the Knights of Columbus, and is 
an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Middletown. 

CAPTAIN THOMAS S. MARVEL, head of the iron shipbuilding and engi- 
neering works which bears his name, was born in New York City, May 16, 1834. 
His father, who was a shipbuilder, came to Newburgh in 1836 and established a 
ship yard. Thomas S. was apprenticed to the trade of ship carpentry and at the age 
of twenty-one began business for himself. When the Civil War was declared he 
quitted his business and raised a company which was mustered in October 28, 1861, 
as Company A, 56th New York Volunteers, with Captain Marvel in command. 
After serving fifteen months he resumed business in Newburgh, and with the excep- 
tion of a few years spent in Staten Island has continued to make that city his 
home. In 1877 he engaged with Ward, Stanton & Co., to superintend the con- 
struction of their vessels. After the failure of this firm. Captain Marvel formed 
a partnership with John Delany to operate a ship yard. The business developed 
rapidly and has for years been one of the most important industries in Newburgh, 
giving employment to about two hundred and fifty men. The present officers of the 
company are: Thomas S. Marvel, president; Harry A. Marvel, vice-president and 
treasurer, and T. S. Marvel, Jr., secretary. The capital of the concern is $300,000. 

Captain Marvel in 1861 married Hattie, daughter of John Burns, of Monroe, 
N. Y. They became the parents of two sons and two daughters. 

HARRY A. MARVEL, superintendent of the T. S. Marvel Shipbuilding Co., a 
sketch of which appears elsewhere, was born in 1865 at Staten Island, and is a 
son of Captain Thomas S. and Hattie (Burns) Marvel. Since finishing his studies 
at the Newburgh Academy Harry has been associated with his father in the im- 
portant industry of steel shipbuilding. Socially he is identified with the Masonic 
fraternity of Newburgh. He married Miss Katherine Vought, of Cornwall, and 
two children have been born to them. 

F. N. MASON, a prominent business man of Port Jervis, N. Y., has resided 
there since i860. After finishing his studies at the public schools he engaged with 
Mr. George Lea in the drug business and in 1875 entered the New York College 
of Pharmacy. He was subsequently in the employ of Mr. Lea, until 1888, when he 
became his partner, and in 1891 bought Mr. Lea's interest and continued the busi- 
ness alone until 1902, when his son became his partner. 

Mr. Mason is a director of the National Bank of Port Jervis ; president of the 
Port Jervis Telephone Co., and director of the Port Jervis Real Estate and Loan 
Association. Pie served two terms as trustee of the village and is now alderman 
of the city. In fraternal circles he is identified with the Masons, Elks and Odd 
Fellows. Mr. Mason married Miss Phoebe C. Everett and their son Mariner H. 
is the only child. 

MICHAEL MAYER, manufacturer of cut glass in Port Jervis, N. Y., was born 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 897 

in the French province of Alsace-Lorraine in 1849 and came to America in 
1866, locating in Brooklyn, N. Y. He operated a cut glass factory in that city until 
1895, when he moved his plant to Port Jervis, N. Y., in the building formerly occu- 
pied by the Orange County Flint Glass Works. This concern is now one of the 
most important industries in the county. In 187 1 Mr. Mayer was joined in mar- 
riage with Madeline Miller, a native of the same province as himself. The cere- 
mony was performed in Brooklyn. Mrs. Mayer died in 1900. He chose for his 
second wife Mrs. Eva Krcll in 1904, who died in 1906. By his first wife Mr. 
Mayer had four children : George, of Brooklyn, X. Y. ; Edward, associated with 
his father as manager of the factory; Madeline, wife of John W. Kelley, of Port 
Jervis, and Josephine, wife of Wm. P. Gregg, of Port Jervis. In politics Mr. Mayer 
is a republican and holds the office of supervisor of the First Ward. He is a 
member of Port Jervis Lodge No. 645, B. P. O. E., and a director of the Port 
Jervis B. & L. Association No. i. The family attends the Churcli of the Sacred 
Heart of Port Jervis. 

CHARLES L. MEAD, LL.B., was born August 27, 1851, in the town of Wa- 
wayanda, Orange County, N. Y. His father, William H. Mead, was also a native 
of the town. The subject of this sketch, the eldest of the family, remained at 
home until fourteen years of age, when he became a student at the Wallkill Acad- 
emy. He took a course at Claverack College, Columbia County, N. Y., from which 
he graduated in 1873. He then entered Princeton with the class of 'tj, where he 
was a student for two years. He entered Columbia Law School in New York in 
1875, graduating in 1877 with the degree of LL.B., after which he opened a law 
office at Goshen, N. Y. In 1892 he was elected county treasurer. 

Mr. Mead married Miss Fannie Tuthill, of Middletown, N. Y., June S, 1878. He 
is a member of the Sons of the Revolution and a republican. He has represented 
his party in various conventions and was councilman for several years. 

WALTER J. MEAD, president of the Montgomery & Erie Railroad, was born 
in Montgomery, February 16, 1824, a son of Walter and Elsie (MoncU) Mead. 
As a young man he engaged in the grist mill business with his father and continued 
in that industry for forty or fifty years. Mr. Mead has been closely identified 
with the Montgomery and Erie Railroad, holding the office of superintendent, sec- 
retary, vice-president and president. He has also been very active in promoting 
educational matters in the village and served many years as trustee of the village 
school board, and president of the village board of trustees. Mr. Mead has been 
twice married ; by his first wife, who was Laura C. Benedict, he had three chil- 
dren. For his second wife he chose Mrs. Ketura M. Miller, daughter of Henry 
W. Thompson, a prominent citizen of Goshen. 

ALEX.\XDER MERRITT, a well-known undertaker and embalmer of Middle- 
town, was born in the town of Blooming Grove, June 30, 1847. When fourteen 
years of age he came to Middletown and learned the carpenters' trade, which he 



898 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE: 

followed seven years. In 1874 he engaged with his father-in-iaw, W. H. Knapp, 
as an assistant in his undertaking establishment, remaining with him until 1881, 
when he embarked in the cabinet manufacturing business. On March i, 1891, he 
entered into partnership with W. Nelson Knapp in the establishment of an under- 
taking business, and eleven years from that time purchased Mr. Knapp's interest, 
and has since conducted the business alone. He is a member of Hoffman Lodge 
No. 412, F. & A. M. ; Middletown Lodge No. 112, L O. O. F. ; Concord Council 
No. 1077; Royal Arcanum and Launcelot Lodge No. 169, K. O. P. 

Mr. Merritt married Miss May A. Knapp, September 3, 1873, and they have 
three children : Clarence N., married Ella Groo, and resides in Paterson, N. J. ; 
Lulu May, married Robert Terhune, resides at East Orange, N. J., and Walter K., 
who married Frances H. Darbee, of Middletown. Walter assists his father in the 
management of the undertaking business. 

THEODORE MERRITT represents the fifth generation of George Merritt and 
Glorianna Purday, who located in the town of Newburgh, 1747. Homestead at 
Middlehope, purchased by Humphry Merritt, 1758, now in possession of Daniel H. 
Merritt. Theodore in 1853 entered employ of John R. Gorham as druggist's clerk. 
In 1859 he purchased the business of John F. Van Nort and became his successor. 
In 1866 he purchased the property at 40 Water street, where the wholesale and re- 
tail drug business has since been conducted. In 1898 Mr. Merritt retired from 
active management and the firm of Theodore Merritt & Sons continued, composed 
of George H., Hiram and Theodore A. Merritt. 

On July 17, 1907, George H. and Hiram purchased the interest of Theodore A. 
in the business, and now conduct it under the name of Theodore Merritt's Sons. 

CHARLES S. MILES was born July 19, 1870, near Lake Station, Orange County. 
His father was William J., and his mother Elizabeth (Doty) Miles. Four chil- 
dren were born to this union : George E., born 1862 ; Edward D., born 1867 ; Charles 
S., and Mary E., born 1874, the wife of James Fintze, of Newark, Ohio. Mr. 
Miles acquired his education at the Warwick public school, after which he learned 
the printers' trade. He was identified with the county newspapers, also papers in 
New York and Brooklyn. He has been connected with the O. & W. Motive Power 
Department and the Road Department. He was married December 7, 1892, to 
Miss Minnie E. Shove, of Middletown, daughter of George and Julia Shove. Two 
children have blessed this union : Victor Edward, died at the age of thirteen 
months, and George W., born September 17, 1895. Socially he belongs to the O. 
& W. Shop Employees' Relief and Benefit Association, and is recording secretary 
of the Jr. O. U. A. M., Wallkill Council No. 92. He is a member and usher of the 
Methodist Church of Middletown. Mr. Miles was elected city treasurer in 1907. 

Dr. JAMES J. MILLS is a native of Orange County, N. Y., and one 
of its leading professional men. He was born at Mount Hope, May 9, 1851. 
He is a son of Hon. Andrew J. Mills and Maria (Green) Mills and a de- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 899 

scendant of Timothy Mills, an early settler of Long Island, whose son 
Ebenezer, born in 1757, was probably the first of the family to settle in Orange 
County. He is of Revolutionary ancestry. His maternal grandfather was re- 
lated to Nathaniel Green, and his maternal grandmother was related to Nathan 
Hale, the patriot who was executed by the British as a spy, and whose statue 
adorns the City Hall Park, New York. At an early age Dr. Mills clerked in New 
York City for Alex. Hudnut, and in the Astor House drug store. He afterwards 
turned his attention to dentistry, and since April 8, 1878, has followed his profes- 
sion in Port Jervis, N. Y. The doctor has been influential in promoting public 
improvements and establishing business enterprises. He was a member of the 
Board of Education, Board of Health, village trustee, town assessor, and held 
various other offices. In 1902-1904 he received the democratic nomination for 
member of assembly. Dr. Mills is a member of the New York State Dental So- 
ciety, the Dental Society of the Ninth Assembly District, No. 328 F. and A. M. of 
Port Jervis, Chapter No. 86 and the Mecca Temple, Knights of Pythias, B. P. O. 
E., Minisink Valley Historical Society as an officer ; served in Delaware Hose 
Company No. 2 of the Port Jervis fire department twenty years. 



NATHAN D. MILLS, a manufacturer of Middletown, N. Y., was born at Cir- 
cleville. Orange County, November 3, 1867. He acquired his education at the dis- 
trict school and Middletown Academy. During one year he was in New York City 
with Crawford & Valentine, contractors, who constructed the Brooklyn water- 
works. After returning to Orange County he managed a farm for three years, 
and in 1895 purchased the wholesale and retail cigar business of Robert Sayer. 
In two years' time the volume of business was such that Mr. Mills found it neces- 
sary to erect a large factory building, 36 x 60 feet. The concern now gives em- 
ployment to forty-five men. Mr. Mills was twice nominated for sheriff by the 
democrats of Orange County. In his first candidacy he carried Middletown by 
861 majority and in his second by 415 majority. It was not expected that he would 
overcome the continuous republican majority in the county. He was master of 
Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M., two years ; is a member of Midland Chapter 
No. 240, Cypress Commandery No. 67, Mecca Temple of New York, Jr. O. U. A. 
M., and B. P. O. E. of Port Jervis. He is an honorary member of the Middle- 
town Excelsior Hook and Ladder Company, worthy president of the Eagles of 
Middletown, and is identified w'ith the Middletown Athletic Association, Old Or- 
chard Club, Middletown Club, Newburgh City Club and Orange County Golf Club. 
He was married to Miss Mary Beakes, of Fair Oaks, N. Y., daughter of Howell and 
Anna J. Beakes, March 2, 1892. Their one child. Maurice, died when two and 
one-half years old. Mr. Mills' parents were Nathan J. and Julia Elizabeth Mills, 
and they had seven children, two of whom died in infancy and one at fourteen 
years of age. Those living are Anna M., wife of Charles E. Haight, of New York 
City; Lizzie J., wife of Virgil K. Carpenter, of Fair Oaks, N. Y., and Frank P. 
a resident of Bullville, Orange County. Mr. Mills is a descendant of an honored 



900 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

family and has achieved a success which ranks him with the solid financial men 
of his city and county. 

SAMUEL CRAWFORD MILLS, for many years one of the leading business 
men of Newburgh, was born in Bloomingburg, Sullivan County, N. Y., March g, 
1839. He died at his home in Newburgh in 1904. Mr. Mills came to this city in 
1857 and entered the drygoods house of Stephen Hayt & Co. as a salesman, con- 
tinuing with this house for nearly six years. In 1863 Mr. Mills formed a part- 
nership with John Schoonmaker and A. Y. Weller to conduct a drygoods estab- 
lishment. The enterprise proved very successful, and Mr. Mills retired from the 
firm in 1885. For many years he was a director of the Quassaick National Bank 
and a trustee of the Newburgh Savings Bank. 

Mr. Mills was twice married. His first wife. Miss Elizabeth Vail, died in 1868. 
For his second wife he chose Sarah, daughter of Hon. Stephen McDonald, of 
Elmira. Two children were born, Stephen McDonald and Mary Duryea. The 
latter is the only surviving member of this family. She is a member of Quassaick 
Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. 

In 1908 Miss Mills married Mr. Luther Winthrop Faulkner, of Lowell, Mass., 
where she now resides. 

SAMUEL WICKHAM MILLS, D.D., was a native of Orange County, born in 
the town of Wallkill, April 5, 1820. The Mills family came to America from 
England. At the age of fifteen he entered Rutgers College at New Brunswick, 
N. J., where he graduated at the age of eighteen. In 1842 he graduated from the 
Theological Seminary at New Brunswick. 

At Bloomingburgh, Sullivan County, Dr. Mills began his pastoral work in 1843. 
At the end of fifteen years he located at Port Jervis, where he was engaged in 
preaching for fourteen years. He was married January 17, 1844, to Miss Amelia J. 
Bailey, daughter of Nathaniel Bailey, of Middletown, N. Y. She was born Febru- 
ary 28, 1822, and died March 12, 1867. By this union there were six children. 
On the 29th of November, 1870, Rev. Dr. Mills was again married to Miss Amira 
St. John, of Port Jervis. He died November 27, 1902. 

STOTT MILLS, postmaster at Warwick, N. Y., was born at Paterson, N. J., 
June 26, 1840. His parents were John and Sarah (Briarly) Mills, and both were 
of English extraction. The subject of this sketch acquired his education at the 
public school at Paterson. He was identified with the Rogers Locomotive Works 
for a period of four years. He enlisted in May, 1861, in Company A, Second 
Regiment, N. J. Vols., and was honoirably discharged. He participated in all 
the important engagements in which his regiment was engaged, and became first 
lieutenant. After the close of the war he removed to Port Jervis, N. Y., and was 
connected with the Erie Railroad as foreman in the shops for a period of fourteen 
years. He went west for three years, after which he removed to Warwick, N. Y., 
and filled the position of master mechanic of the Lehigh and Hudson Railroad for 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 901 

sixteen years. In 1898 he was appointed postmaster at Warwick, which position 
he still holds. He was united in marriage to Mclvma Jackson, of Amity, Orange 
County, May 17, 1865. To this union five children were born — Sarah, .A.nna, 
Isabel, John and Charles. In politics Mr. Mills is a republican. He is a member 
of Lincoln Post, G. A. R., of Newark, N. J., and attends the Episcopal Church 
of Warwick. 

DR. THEODORE DENTON MILLS was born June 9, 1852, in Bloomingburgh, 
Sullivan County, N. Y., and is the son of Dr. Samuel Wickham and Almeda Jane 
(Bailey) Mills. The former, who was a clergyman, was descended in a direct 
line from George Mills, wlw) was born about 1605, came from Yorkshire, Eng- 
land, in 1665, and died in Jamaica, Long Island, in 1694, at the age of eighty-nine. 
His son, Samuel, was born in 1631, and died in Jamaica, L. I., in 1726, at the age 
of ninety-five; he was the father of Jonathan, who was born in Jamaica, L. I., and 
had four sons, Timothy, Samuel, Isaac and Jonathan. Timothy, who was born 
at Jamaica in 1677, left that place and settled at Mills Pond, L. I., in 1693 ; he died 
March 30, 1751, aged seventy-four. His son Jonathan, who was born in 1710, at 
Mills Pond, L. I., and died in 1798, at the age of eighty-eight, was the father of 
Jacob, who was born in 1746 at Mills Pond, L. I. (near St. James) ; he moved to 
New Windsor, Orange County, N. Y., in 1768 or 1770, and soon after to the town 
of Wallkill, Orange County; he died in 1841, aged ninety-five years. His son 
Samuel, who was born in 1776 and died in i860, at the age of eighty-four, was the 
father of the Rev. Samuel Wickham, mentioned above, who was born in 1820 and 
died in 1902, aged eighty-two. The maternal ancestors of Dr. Mills were old resi- 
dents of Orange County, New York, his grandfather, Nathaniel Bailey, having 
been the son of Captain Daniel Bailey, a soldier in the Revolutionary army. 

Dr. Mills was prepared for college at the private school of Professor A. B. Wil- 
bur, of Port Jervis, N. Y., and in 1874 graduated as bachelor of arts from Rutgers 
College, New Brunswick, N. J., being junior orator and commencement orator, 
and receiving, in 1877, from the same institution, the degree of master of arts. 
He was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa and Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternities. 
He studied medicine with Dr. Henry R. Baldwin, of New Brunswick, N. J., and Dr. 
Henry Hardenbergh, of Port Jervis, N. Y. In 1876 he graduated from the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University with the degree of doc- 
tor of Medicine, and from April of that year to October, 1877, was house surgeon 
in the first surgical division of Bellevue Hospital. He practiced medicine at Port 
Jervis, N. Y., from October, 1877, to January, i88r, when he removed to Middle- 
town, N. Y., where he has been located since. He is attending surgeon to the 
Thrall Hospital and surgeon to the New York, Ontario and Western Railroad 
Company. He has been a trustee of the Middletown Savings Bank and of the 
Orange County Trust and Safe Deposit Company, and was for si.x years president 
of the Orange County Telephone Company and is a director of the Stivers Print- 
ing Company. He is a member of the County and State Medical Societies, the 
American Medical Association, the New York and New England .\ssociation of 



902 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Railroad Surgeons and the International Association of Railroad Surgeons. He 
is a member of the Middletown Club and in politics independent. He is also a 
member of the Sons of the Revolution. 

Dr. Mills married Christina, daughter of Hon. M. D. Stivers, of Middletown, 
October 20, 1867. They are the parents of the following children : Theodore Den- 
ton, Jr., born November 10, 1888, died January 14, 1889; Samuel Wickham, born 
January 4, 1892, and Elizabeth Stivers, born August 29, 1893. 

GEORGE HENRY MILLSPAUGH was born in Goshen, Orange County, Oc- 
tober 9, 1872. He received his education at the public school at Goshen, where he 
has since resided. He engaged in the laundry business in 1897 and now has the 
only steam laundry in Goshen, it being fully equipped with every modern con- 
venience. In politics he is a republican. He is a member of Goshen Lodge No. 
365, F. & A. M. ; Goshen Social and Athletic Association, Cataract Hose Company 
and the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Millspaugh is active in all matters relating to 
the highest interest of the town in which he lives. 

HECTOR W. MILLSPAUGH was born January 29, 1866, at Wallkill, Ulster 
County, N. Y. He was a son of Henry and Mary E. Millspaugh, there being five 
children in his parents' family. He received his early education at the dis- 
trict school. At an early age he identified himself with the New York Knife 
Co., of Walden, N. Y., learning the business in detail. He worked diligently for 
the interest of the company, 'remaining there twenty-five years. He married Miss 
Rosina Stickles, of Walden, daughter of Steven and Hanna Stickles, March 11, 
1886. Two children were born to this union: Charles, born September 21, 1892; 
Etta, born April 4, 1888, both at home. In politics Mr. Millspaugh is a republican. 
He is at present supervisor of the town of Montgomery. Socially a member of 
No. 170 I. O. O. F., Freeman Lodge No. 310, Mohonk Tribe, Improved Order of 
Red Men, Henry Gowdy Council, American Mechanics of Walden, Court Orange 
No. 8, Foresters of America. His wife is a member of the Methodist Church of 
Walden. 

THERON L. MILLSPAUGH, who has been engaged in the furniture and un- 
dertaking business for fifty years, is an honored citizen of Walden, N. Y. His 
ancestry in America dates back to Philip Millspaugh, who was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary War. Theron L. was born in 1838, a son of Gilbert S. and Jane 
(Clineman) Millspaugh. At the age of seventeen he began his apprenticeship as 
cabinetmaker and in 1858 purchased the business from the widow of his former 
employer. His floor space at present covers over 10,000 square feet and is one of 
the finest furniture houses in Orange County. In 1862 he married Miss Eleanor 
D., daughter of Hon. David H. Smith, of the town of Montgomery. Two children 
have been born to them, Hattie C, now the wife of Dr. J. E. Sadlier, of Pough- 
keepsie, and Gilbert S., in business with his father. Mr. Millspaugh has served as 
deacon and elder of the Reformed Church, also on the Board of Village Trustees. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 903 

JOHN CLINTON MINTURX, of Bellvale, was born in the town of Warwick 
in 1853. In 1876 he opened a general store at Bellvale, which he is still conducting 
as well as one at Greenwood Lake, which he established several years ago. On 
January 11, 1877, he married Mary Ellen Hunter, of Greenwood Lake, and three 
children have been born to them, two of whom are living, John C. and Mamie E. 
John C. is assistant in his father's store. Mr. Minturn has served as school trustee 
several years. His father, James Minturn, was a farmer and mason and a de- 
scendant of Captain John Minturn, of Revolutionary fame. 

EDGAR O. MITCHELL, M.D., Xewburgh, X. V., was born in Xcw York City 
in 1864. When five years of age his parents removed to Xewburgh. He was 
educated at Siglar's Preparatory School, Phillips (Exeter) Academy and Har- 
vard University. He graduated from Harvard Medical College in 1892 and has 
since practiced in Xewburgh. He is a member of the City and Powelton Clubs. 
Dr. Mitchell is a son of John James Mitchell, M.D., who has been one of N^ew- 
burgh's foremost physicians for nearly forty years, and ex-president of the Ho- 
meopathic Medical Society of New York State. The family is of Puritan an- 
cestry and direct descendants of Thomas Mitchell, who settled in Block Island, 
R. I., and bought one-fourteenth of the original share of the Island in 1677. 

GEORGE R. MITCHELL, of Xewburgh, who carries on an extensive business 
as a plumber and tinsmith and dealer in stoves and tinware, was born in Islip, 
L. I., in 1859. He came to Xewburgh in 1871 and learned his trade with J. D. 
Mabie. He started in business for himself in 1886, opening a shop in Smith street. 
His present commodious quarters are located at 73 Second street. Mr. Mitchell 
married Miss Anna E. Campbell, of Xewburgh, and has one son. He is trustee 
of the Associate Reformed Church and a member of Hudson River Lodge, F. & 
A. M. 

BEXJ.VMIX MOFFATT was born in the town of Blooming Grove, Orange 
County, X. Y., a son of Nathaniel and grandson of Samuel Moflfatt, the first of 
the name who came from County of Antrim, Ireland, and settled in Blagg's Clove, 
Orange County, where he died May, 1787, in his eighty-second year. 

Benjamin Mofifatt, who inherited the strong, sterling characteristics of his 
Scotch-Irish ancestors, moved in 1840 to the then far West, Milwaukee, Wis., ac- 
companied by his wife, who was Elizabeth Hulse, and their two infant daughters. 
Later the family moved to Illinois, where they resided many years and where the 
bright, beneficent influence of Mr. Moffatt reflected on all around him. He was an 
upright, honest, conscientious man, and every act of his life manifested the re- 
ligious teachings of his younger days. In his hospitable home were entertained 
many travelers passing through the then frontier line of our country. 

Mr. Moffatt was a charter member of the First Congregational Church of Mil- 
waukee, Wis., and of the Secon<l Congregational Church of Rockford, 111. He 
was influential in the establishment of Beloit College, Beloit, Wis., and Rockford 



904 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

College, Rockford, 111. He died June 9, 1857, in his sixty-sixth year, leaving his 
wife and three children, Melissa, Josephine and Gilbert, and the memory of a life 
which had a moulding influence for good in the home of his adoption. 

GEORGE E. MORAN, SR., superintendent of the paper mills owned by the 
Diamond Mills Paper Company, located at New Hampton, N. Y., has been engaged 
for fifty years in the manufacture of paper. The Diamond Mills occupy the site 
of an industrial landmark in this section and is the property of Col. G. W. Thomp- 
son, of New York City, who bought it from E. Rosencrans in 1875. The plant has 
been greatly improved and additions made from time to time, including a one- 
hundred-foot addition across the creek in 1900. Employment is given to thirty 
persons, and the product averages two tons of finished tissue paper daily. An 
artesian well is on the premises and the plant is equipped with large and modern 
machinery. 

Mr. Moran, who is an expert in the manufacture of fine paper, entered the em- 
ploy of Col. Thompson some forty years ago and by energy and industry acquired 
his present responsible position. He is assisted by his son, George E., in the man- 
agement of the business. 

ARTHUR S. MOORE was born in Bay City, Mich., March 7, 1879. He attended 
the public schools and graduated in that city, afterward graduating from the Med- 
ical Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 1901. He was 
surgical interne at Ann Arbor Hospital one year, following which he was assistant 
at the Criminal Insane Asylum at Ionia, Mich., removing to Middletown in Octo- 
ber, 1903,. He is now connected with the Middletown State Homeopathic Hos- 
pital. Dr. Moore was married to Martha McCartney, of Bay City, Mich. He is 
a member of Knights of Pythias of Ionia, Mich., and of Ann Arbor Lodge, F. & 
A. M. 

JONATHAN OWEN MOORE, son of Alexander and Hannah (Owen) Moore, 
was born in Washingtonville, Christmas Day, 1833, at the Moore homestead. As 
a young man he accepted a position in the Bank of Albany, where he remained 
until his enlistment as a soldier in the Civil War. He had the distinction of being 
the first man from New York State to receive an army commission. He was pro- 
moted from time to time and at the close of the war returned as captain of his 
regiment, known as the Wide-Awakes. He then married Miss Helen, daughter of 
Van Rensselaer Wilbur, of Albany. Returning to Washingtonville, he engaged in 
the furniture business for a number of years, and was also elected to the office 
of justice of the peace. Mr. Moore, familiarly known as "Owenie" Moore, has 
been a life-long staunch republican, working enthusiastically for the election of 
party candidates. In later years he lived in retirement in New York City, devoting 
his time to the settlement of estates. His daughter, Bertha, now Mrs. O. B. Still- 
man, of New York, has her country place at what is known as the Goldsmith 
homestead, near Washingtonville. Mr. Moore died in New York City in 1908. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 905 

JOHN W. MORLEY, son of James and Anna (Vought) Morley, was born at 
Cornwall, Orange County, N. Y., in 1867. After finishing his studies at the schools 
of Newburgh, he learned the hatter's trade, in which he was engaged for twenty 
years. In 1904 he established a grocery store at Gardnertown, which he is conduct- 
ing with much success. Mr. Morley takes an active interest in politics and in 1905 
was elected commissioner of the City and Town Home. 

Socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the Junior Order of Amer- 
ican Mechanics and the International Hatters' Association. He was united in 
marriage to Miss Elizabeth Van Buren. 

DAVID A. MORRISON, secretary of the Orange County Agricultural Society, 
1858- 1908, belongs to one of the old representative families of Orange County, where 
his entire life has been passed. He is of Scotch-Irish and Dutch ancestry. His pater- 
nal ancestors emigrated from Scotland to the north of Ireland during the seven- 
teenth century. His great-great-grandfather, John Morrison, was born near Belfast, 
Ireland, in the year 1700, and came to this country prior to the Revolution. His son 
John, the founder of the family in America, had preceded him several years and 
settled on what is now known as the Morrison Homestead, in the town of Mont- 
gomery. He married Elizabeth Scott. They had nine children, one of whom was 
Hamilton, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, who inherited the home 
farm. He married Lydia Beemer, who was of Dutch descent, whose ancestors 
came from Beemersville, N. J., who lived to the advanced age of one hundred and 
three years. They had eight children, of whom Hamilton, the father of our sub- 
ject, was the youngest but one. 

Hamilton Morrison, the father of David A., was born August 24, 1804, at the 
Old Homestead which he inherited, and which has descended from father to son 
for five generations, or nearly one hundred and fifty years. He was one of the 
founders of the Orange County Agricultural Society, and continued to be one of 
its most devoted friends until his death in 1881. He filled at different times every 
office in the society except treasurer. He was elected a member of its executive 
committee eight times, was corresponding secretary from 1851 to 1857 inclusive, 
was vice-president twenty years, and president twice. He married Maria Mould, 
daughter of Jonathan Mould, of the town of Montgomery, and a lineal descendant 
of Christoflfel Mould, one of the earliest Dutch settlers of the Wallkill Valley. 

David A. Morrison is the second in a family of seven children. Jonathan M., 
of Montgomery, who was widely known and highly esteemed and who died in 
1898; David A., George H. and John G., prominent and intelligent farmers who re- 
side on the Homestead Farm, which contains nearly three hundred acres, and is 
now one of the best improved estates in the town of Montgomery ; William H. H., 
a well-known, progressive and successful farmer on an adjoining farm ; Mary J., 
who married Elijah C. Thayer, of Hamptonburgh, and died in February, 1901 ; and 
Elizabeth M., wife of William C. Hart, of Walden, N. Y. 

Mr. Morrison w*as educated in public schools and the Montgomery .A.cademy, 
and at the age of seventeen years became a teacher. He taught district schools 



go6 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

in the towns of Montgomery, Hamptonburgh and Blooming Grove, and was prin- 
cipal of graded schools in the villages of Walden and Montgomery — in all about 
thirty terms. 

In 1867 he was elected school commissioner for the First District of Orange 
County, serving until 1894 — in all five terms, or fifteen years, a record that has 
never been paralleled in the State. 

He has been secretary of the Orange County Agricultural Society for fifty years, 
and has attended every fair held by it since its organization in 1841. He is one of 
the mainstays of the society, and a man of education and ability. 

In 1880 Mr. Morrison married Mary R. Lipsett, a daughter of the late Robert and 
Mary A. (Morrison) Lipsett, of the town of Montgomery, and granddaughter of 
Col. Wiliam Faulkner of Revolutionary fame. 

In 1893 he removed to Newburgh, where he now resides. 

He was nominated for Congress, against his earnest protests, in 1896, and, al- 
though running far ahead of his ticket, he shared the fate of his party, and was 
defeated by Benjamin B. Odell, Jr., since Governor of the State. 

Mr. Morrison was county correspondent of the U. S. Department of Agricul- 
ture and Statistical Bureau of the Patent Office for forty years. He was one of 
the incorporators of the Columbus Trust Company of Newburgh, N. Y., and has 
been one of its directors and a member of its executive committee since its organi- 
zation, and is now its vice-president. 

He is president of the Board of Trustees of Union Presbyterian Church, New- 
burgh, N. Y. ; vice-president of the Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the 
Highlands ; a trustee of Washington's Headquarters, Newburgh, N. Y. ; a mem- 
ber of the Empire State Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, and presi- 
dent of Newburgh Chapter, S. A. R. ; and a life member of the New York State 
Agricultural Society. 

HAMILTON MORRISON was born August 24, 1804, at the old homestead, 
which is now occupied by his sons, George H. and John G. This property has been 
handed down from father to son since long before the Revolution. It contains 
two hundred and sixty acres of land and is one of the best improved estates in the 
town of Montgomery. 

His paternal family included eight children, of whom our subject was the young- 
est but one. His parents were Hamilton and Lydia (Beemer) Morrison. The for- 
mer, a native of Ireland, crossed the Atlantic and landed on the American shore 
when a mere lad, accompanied by his father, John. The latter took up the land 
which is still in the Morrison family. Hamilton married January 10, 1827, Maria, 
daughter of Jonathan and Elizabeth Mould; she died March 26, 1868. To our 
subject and his wife the following children were born : Jonathan M., married Mar- 
garet Windfield; David A., married Mary R. Lipsett; George H., unmarried; Mary 
J., married Elijah Carpenter Thayer; John G., unmarried; William H. H., married 
Agnes Horton. 

Hamilton Morrison passed his entire life on this farm in the town of Mont- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 907 

gomcry. When a young man he taught school and after marriage gave his atten- 
tion to cultivating his broad acres. 

He was very successful in his undertakings. He was foremost in founding the 
Orange County Agricultural Society, of which he was president for many years. 
He died October 25, i88r. 

The family is progressive and one of the most influential in the county. In poli- 
• tics it is democratic, as was also their father. 

His son, George H. Morrison, has recently published a complete genealogical 
chart of the family in America. 

GEORGE MOSHIER, retired contractor, was born in Newburgh, X. Y., April 
19, 1838. He learned the carpenters' trade and from 1866 to 1907 was engaged in 
the contracting and building business, having erected many of the most substan- 
tial buildings in Newburgh and vicinity. 

He was a member of the Board of Water Commissioners from 1884 to 1889. 
In 1899 he was elected a member of the Board of Supervisors, and has been suc- 
cessively re-elected for five terms, serving two terms as chairman. He is promi- 
nently identified with the Masonic fraternity and president of the Masonic Vet- 
erans' Association ; member of the Newburgh Historical Society and an active 
member in Trinity Church. 

In 1862 he married Miss Caroline Tilton. Their children arc Anna, George, Jr., 
and Mabel. Mr. Moshier's ancestors resided in or near Newburgh many years 
previous to the Revolution. Two of them were soldiers in the Continental Army, 
serving with distinction. 

EDWARD M. MURTFELDT, born Newburgh, 1853; entered employ of Peck 
& Van Dalfscn's furniture house in 1869. In 1879 he purchased Joseph H. PowelTs 
undertaking and furniture establishment, which he conducted on the same site until 
1895. At present engaged as funeral director at TJ Second street, Newburgh. In 
1894 he assisted in organization and became president of the Highland Furniture 
Mfg. Co.; served a number of years as alderman and president of council and has 
served as acting mayor ; also was a member of the Board of Public Works. He has 
taken all tlie chairs in Masonry and has been an officer in Highland Chapter No. 52 
and commander of H. R. Commandery No. 35. Mr. Murtfeldt is of German descent; 
a son of Henry W. and Mary Frances (W^orden) Murtfeldt. In 1872 he married 
Miss Anna A. McCord; six children have been born to them. He is at present the 
president of the Masonic Veterans' Association, of Newburgh, N. Y., and has held 
office in the Grand Commandery, State of New York. He is at present the dis- 
trict deputy of the Thirteenth District of the Grand Lodge, a Thirty-second De- 
gree Mason and grand marshal of the Consistory of New York City. He has been 
regent of Newburgh Council of the Royal Arcanum and its treasurer for a num- 
ber of years. Member of the City Club. 

FRANK D. MYERS, M.D., of Slate Hill, N. Y., is a descendant of one of 



9o8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Orange County's oldest families. He was born in the town of Greenville, N. Y.. 
where he attended public school. This was supplemented by a course of private 
tutoring near Newburgh, after which he taught school two years in the town of 
Minisink. Dr. Myers graduated in medicine from the University of Michigan in 
1887, and has since been engaged in practice at Slate Hill. He is a member of 
the County and State Medical Societies, and the American Medical Association. 

He married Miss Margaret Hall, of Ridgebury, and a son, Frank D., was born to 
them in 1908. 

Dr. Myers is a son of Samuel S. and Mary Elizabeth (Elston) Myers. His 
grandfather was Daniel C. Myers, his great-grandfather Daniel Van Auker Myers, 
and his great-great-grandfather Daniel, the first of that name in this locality, who 
participated in the battle of Minisink. The flint lock musket he carried is in the 
possession of Dr. Myers. The homestead upon which this man settled has re- 
mained in the possession of the family and is now owned and occupied by Floyd 
E. Myers, a brother of the doctor. 

GEN. ALFRED NEAFIE.— Alfred Neafie was born in Walden, Orange County, 
N. Y., January 8, 183^, being the son of Cornelius Neafie, a member of one of the 
old Knickerbocker families, who came to New York in 1637. 

Cornelius Neafie built the first cotton mill in Orange County and the second in 
the State. As a boy Alfred Neafie, fond of hunting and fishing and of an ad- 
venturous turn of mind, it is not strange that he should at the age of nineteen, 
start for the newly discovered gold fields of California. 

It was in 185 1 that he left in a sailing vessel, the Grecian, for the six months' 
voyage "round the Horn." 

His first vote was cast in the canyons of the North Yuba in the Sierra Nevada 
Mountains. During his successful career in California he was a member of the 
celebrated Vigilance Committee and was one of those who helped to apprehend the 
famous outlaw "Yankee Sullivan," and was present at the trial and hanging of 
Juaquin Murat and "Three-Fingered Jack." 

Returning home at the death of his father and starting in business in Ellenville, 
N. Y., yet at the outbreak of the war Mr. Neafie put aside personal interests and 
went to the front. He was offered the captaincy of the Walden Company of the 
124th Regiment, but declined it, as he had already raised nearly two companies of 
what became the 156th Infantry. 

His military record is to be found in brief in the Historical Register and Dic- 
tionary of the United States Army, Vol. i, page 741, as follows : 

"Neafie, Alfred, N. Y., N. Y. Capt. 156th N. Y. Inf., 13th Sept., 1862; Lt.-Col., 
9th Jan., 1864; Lt.-Col. Vols., 13th March, 1865, for gal- and meritorious services 
at Battle of Winchester and Fisher Hill, Va., and Brig.-Gen. Vols., 13th March, 
1865, for conspicuous gallantry at Winchester, Va., 19th Sept., 1864. Mustered 
out 23d Oct., 1865." 

During the war Gen. Neafie was provost marshal of Alexandria, La., and Baton 
Rouge. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 909 

While at Savannah he held tlie offices of supervisor of trade, collector of military 
taxes, relief commissioner and assisted m the repatriation of the South, as by vir- 
tue of seniority of rank he was chief of staflf of the department. 

A few of the brilliant and picturesque events of his military career were : — 

After the capture at Washington, Ga., of the archives of the Confederacy, which 
included records of Generals Beauregard, Polk, Joseph E. Johnston and Albert Sid- 
ney Johnston, $300,000,000 of cotton bonds, $760,000 in gold and silver and thirty 
wagon loads of valuable jewelry and personal articles, General Neafie, with two 
federal officers and two treasury agents, inventoried and sent to their proper own- 
ers, scattered all through the Southern States, all private property, while all public 
property was turned over to the United States Government. This was done in 
about two months. 

As General Grover's chief of staff, General Xeafie received Jefferson Davis when 
he was captured and delivered him to Lieutenant-Commander (now admiral, re- 
tired) Luce, in command of the double-ender Pontiac, in Savannah River. 

Jefferson Davis, Jr., a most lovable boy about ten years old, was a guest in the 
house in Savannah where General Xeafie lived, they drove together daily and a 
great affection sprang up between the two. 

His early death of yellow fever in Memphis was a sorrowful event for all who 
knew him. 

General Neafie with General Grover was present at the solemn and thrilling 
raising of the flag at Fort Sumter, four years to a day from the time it was low- 
ered by Sergeant Hart. 

It was taken from the sealed mail bag, where it had been placed by Sergeant 
Hart, wiio now released it from its leathern prison, and once more raised to its 
place of honor. 

When this was done it was seen that the flag was pierced by at least thirty shell 
fragments, and was ragged and torn; not a star had been shot away. 

When that fact was disclosed to the men who had been fighting four years to 
keep the stars of our Union together, the emotion was too great for expression. 

But from outside came the noisy welcome from the battered and indented iron- 
clads and monitors, who had been circling around waiting to give tongue with 
their cannon throats. 

Since the close of the war. General Xeafie has led a business life of wide and 
varied interests, with homes in Ellenville and Goshen, X. Y. 

MOSES F. XELSOX, notary public, real estate and insurance broker of the 
town of Highlands, Orange County, X. Y., was born at Highland Falls in 1867, 
and for the past seventeen years has been identified with public affairs of his na- 
tive place, serving as tax collector, clerk and member of the Board of Education 
and justice of the peace. He is a son of the late Cornelius Xclson. who for thirty 
years was postmaster at Highland Falls and who was also engaged in the fire in- 
surance and real estate business, which was conducted under the firm name of 
Cornelius Xclson & Son, and to which he succeeded. 



910 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Socially Mr. Nelson is a member of the Knights of Pythias. He married Miss 
Mary Adolph in 1893 ; they have three daughters. 

THE NICOLL FAMILY.— Within the corporate limits of Washingtonville, 
N. Y., lies a farm of one hmidred and forty-five acres virhich bears evidence of 
the supervision of an energetic and capable family. This place is known as the 
Nicoll homestead, and was occupied for over a quarter of a century by John Nicoll, 
who died in 1874. As the name indicates he was of Scotch descent. The progeni- 
tor of this family in America was Dr. John Nicoll, who emigrated to this country 
in 171 1 and settled in New York. He became one of the leading men of the 
colony and acquired the ownership of a large amount of property, having among 
his possessions fourteen thousand, five hundred acres of land in the Minisink 
Patent. He died in 1743 at the age of sixty-four. 

John Nicoll was born in Hackensack, N. J., in 1799, and in early life was en- 
gaged in the mercantile business in New York City, whence he removed to Orange 
County in 1844. By his first marriage to Juliana Thompson, one son, William, was 
born, who died at the age of twenty-six. The second wife of Mr. Nicoll bore the 
maiden name of Elizabeth H. White and was born in Bagg's Cove in 1808. She 
died in 1855. To this union eight children were born, of whom Charles and Eliza- 
beth White (now the wife of Andrew S. Glover) reside in Washingtonville. An- 
other son, Isaac, met death while leading his company in the battle of Gettysburg 
in 1863. On the soldiers' monument at Salisbury Mills is this inscription : "To the 
memory of Captain Isaac Nicoll, Company G, 124th N. Y. S. V., and the men of 
Blooming Grove who fought in the war for the unity of the Republic, 1861-1865." 

REV. STANISLAUS J. NOWAK, rector of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic 
Church, Florida, N. Y. In the year 1893 our Polish neighbors at Florida, N. Y., 
after mature deliberation and consultation, concluded to have their own church, 
and the necessary steps were taken to secure the approval of the church authorities 
for their project. Having demonstrated the feasibility of the idea, and the neces- 
sary approval having been obtained, Messrs. John and Anton Dulski, Joseph An- 
dryszak, Joseph Wozniak, Ignatius Brink and John Majorowski were appointed as 
collectors, and succeeded so well that within two years over two thousand dollars 
were subscribed. 

On July 2, 1895, Rev. Stanislaus J. Nowak was appointed and entered on his work 
as rector of the new church. Father Nowak is a native of Posen — Germany-Poland 
— studied at Germany and at Rome and came to this country at the express wish 
of Archbishop M. A. Corrigan, and finished his theological studies and was or- 
dained priest at the Provincial Seminary at Troy, N. Y., by the Rt. Rev. Bishop 
Tierney, of Hartford. After spending a short while at Shokan, Ulster County, 
Father Nowak was appointed as assistant to the Very Rev. Dean Sweeny, of St. 
Joseph's Church, Kingston, N. Y., and while there Father Nowak received his ap- 
pointment as rector of the Polish Church. Since coming to Florida, N. Y., Father 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 911 

Nowak has been a successful as well as an indefatigable worker, and under his 
supervision the church was ready for the dedication in November. 

With all the pomp and ceremonial of the Catholic ritual, the new church of the 
Polish congregation at Florida was dedicated on Sunday, November 10, 1895, oy 
Archbishop Corrigan, to the service of God under the patronage of St. Joseph. 
The solemn high mass on that date was celebrated by the Very Rev. E. M. Sweeny, 
of Kingston, N. Y. (with whom Father Nowak lived as assistant before coming 
to Florida). Father McCorry, of Goshen, acted as deacon, and Father Nowak as 
subdeacon, and Father Connolly, the archbishop's secretary, acted as master of 
ceremonies. 

After the gospel had been chanted by the deacon, his grace, the archbishop 
ascended the steps of the altar and after a few very well chosen words of con- 
gratulation to the pastor and people on the happy culmination of their work in 
offering a church free of debt for the purposes of divine worship, preached an able 
and scholarly sermon on the holiness of the church, and during his remarks he was 
listened to with rapt attention, showing that his words had made a very deep im- 
pression. The Polish sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. M. Barabasz, of Balti- 
more, Md. 

The rectory was built the same year and occupied in December. St. Joseph's 
congregation owns its own cemetery, which was blessed in October, 1896, and is 
located at Union Corner. 

In July, 1892, Father Nowak was transferred to New York City, where he or- 
ganized a new Polish congregation, and established St. Joseph's Home for the 
Polish Immigrants on Broad street. 

Father Michael Slupek was in charge of St. Joseph's Church at Florida for 
nearly two years, and was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Kloss, who was pastor of St. 
Joseph's until October, 1902. At that time Father Nowak returned to St. Joseph's, 
and under his management the church is freed from debt again. 

The church will be enlarged this year, as it is too small for the congregation. 
There are thirteen hundred Polish people in Florida and vicinity. The Poles of 
Florida are showing a desire and aptness to develop into a most industrious and 
desirable class of citizens. 

ARTHUR E. O'CONNOR was born March 10, 1867. at Brooklyn, N. Y. He is 
a son of John S. and Hanna (Marrett) O'Connor. To this union seven children, 
one son and six daughters, were born. There are five living: Anna, wife of 
Timothy O'Connell, of Honesdale, Pa. ; Mary, wife of Thomas Cusick, of Goshen, 
N. Y., and two daughters residing at heme and two are dead. The subject of our 
sketch attended the public school at White Mills, Pa. His father was identified 
with C. Dorfinger for twenty-five year? at White Mills, Pa., and operated a cut 
glass factory at Hawley, Pa. Arthur started the cut glass factory at Goshen in 
1900, which has enjoyed a prosperous business since. Mr. O'Connor's father was 
the oldest practical cut glass man in the world, and was sergeant in the 69th Regi- 
ment, New York Volunteer Infantry, and his prandfTther, Neal O'Connor, was a 



912 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

captain of the New Orleans Rangers in the Mexican War. Arthur married Cath- 
erine Langan, of Hawley, Pa., February 20, 1888, and to this union were born three 
sons and one daughter, Mary, who holds the position of bookkeeper at the Goshen 
factory. John graduated in 1907 at Hawley, Pa., and is now foreman at the Goshen 
factory. William and Arthur are attending school at Goshen. Mr. O'Connor 
employs forty men at his factory. 

HON. BENJAMIN B. ODELL.— In reviewing the life of this venerable and 
distinguished citizen of Newburgh, a few words regarding his ancestry will not be 
am.iss. The family is of French and English descent, but has been represented in 
America for manv generations. His grandfather, William Odell, was born in New 
York City, and there for some years he was proprietor of the Bull's Head Tavern. 
In 18.35 he moved to Orleans County, N. Y., where he bought a tract of land and 
with the assistance of his two sons improved a valuable farm. His death occurred 
there at the age of more than ninety years. 

Isaac Odell, the father of our subject, was born in Tarrytown, Westchester 
County, N. Y., and reared in New York City, whence, about 1820, he came to Orange 
County, settling on the DeWitt Clinton farm at Little Britain, where he remained 
until 1830, when he removed to Newburgh and was employed in the freighting 
business with the firm of Powell, Wardrop & Johnson, with whom he remained 
until his retirement from business. He died at the age of sixty-five. His wife, 
Mary A., Avas also a native of Westchester County. She died in New York City 
in her eighty-first year. Their family consisted of two sons and two daughters, of 
whom Benjamin B. was the second in order of birth. He was born in the Governor 
Clinton homestead. New Windsor town, September 10, 1825, and reared in New- 
burgh, where he attended the pubhc schools. In 1843 he entered the employ of 
B. W. Van Nort, in the restaurant and hotel business where he remained until 
1847, when he embarked in business for himself, opening a restaurant in Third 
street. Twenty years later he sold and abandoned the business permanently. 

Mr. Odell foresaw a promising field in the ice business, and in 1863 purchased 
from James R. Dixon the ice property now known as Muchattoes Lake, and con- 
ducted the business personally until 1886, when he organized the Muchattoes Lake 
Ice Company, of which he has since remained president. 

Mr. Odell was one of the organizers of the Columbus Trust Company in 1892, 
and was the first president, but resigned after one year in office. He is president of 
the Central-Hudson Steamboat Company and a director in the Orange County 
Traction Company. 

For over sixty years Mr. Odell has been prominently identified with the adminis- 
tration of public affairs of Newburgh and Orange County. In 1863 he was trustee 
of the village; 1865, alderman from the Third ward: 1879, super\asor of the town of 
New Windsor; 1880 to 1883, sheriff of Orange County. In 1884 he was elected 
mayor of Newburgh, continuing in that office until 1890, when he refused to be a 
candidate for another term. In 1894, however, he was again nominated and re- 
elected maj'or, serving until 1900. During the twelve years of his administration 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 913 

the city witnessed ih.e creation of many public improvements and an era of great 
progress and increase in population. 

Amid the multiplicity of his public and private affairs, Mr. Odcll has never 
allowed his religious duties to be neglected, in the .American Reformed Church he 
has been an official, serving at different times as elder and deacon. In 1850 he 
married Miss Ophelia, daughter of Hiram Bookstaver, of the town of Montgomery. 
F.icven children were born to them, of whom four are living: Benjamin B., Jr., 
Governor of New York State (1900 to 1904) ; Hiram B., postmaster of Xewburgh ; 
Clara, who resides with her father, and George C. D., professor in Columbia Uni- 
versity, New York City. 

By his energy and resolute character, coupled with a genial disposition, Mr. Odell 
has not only advanced his own success, but has given an impetus to the growth and 
prosperity of Newburgh by his progressive spirit and enterprise. 

HIRAM B. ODELL, postmaster, Newburgh, N. Y., is the son of Hon. Benjamin 
B. and Ophelia (Bookstaver) Odell, and was born August 21, 1856. After finishing 
hi^ studies he engaged with his father in the conduct of a large ice business. In 
1886 he was elected a director and superintendent of the Muchattoes Lake Ice Co. 
In 1891 he was appointed superintendent of the Newburgh Electric Light, Heat and 
Power Co. From 1880 to 1882 he was under sheriff of the county, in charge of 
the Goshen court-house, his father then being sheriff. He received his present 
appointment i\Iarch I. 1900, and was reappointed by President Roosevelt in 1904 
and again in 1908. Mr. Odell married Miss Edith Booth, of Kingston. 

JAMES ALSOP OGDEN, only son of William L. and Louise Baker Ogden, 
was born in the town of Mount Hope May 28. 1861. His entire home life has been 
in Warwick, to which his father moved when the boy was only nine months old. 
He died December 5, 1905. 

Mr. Ogden was educated in ^^'<-lrwick Institute and at Hartwell's Private School 
in Unionville. He married Miss Virginia R. Geraghty, of Warwick, in 1889, and is 
survived by her and one daughter, Mary, who is a graduate of the Warwick high 
school ; also by two sisters, Alveretta, wife of Maurice Pelton, and Mary, wife of 
Dr. S. E. Holly. In 1889 he and his brother-in-law. Mr. Pelton, succeeded his 
father in the hardware business with the firm name of Ogden & Pelton. His father 
died in 1902. James Ogden was a member of the Warwick band for many years. 
He was one of the founders of the Warwick .Athletic Association, and a member 
of the Warwick Club, in which last he served as trustee and treasurer. He was 
one of the charter members of the Warwick Gun Club, and a director in the First 
National Bank. 

JOSHUA OLDROYD was born in Yorkshire, England, January 29, 1838. His 
early education was acquired while working in the woolen mills of that place, 
attending school one-half day and working the other half. He also attended night 
school for several years. His trade was that of a hand loom weaver. When eight- 



QI4 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

een years of age he came to America, and was employed in the woolen mills at 
Mechanicstown, Orange County, from 1856 to 1858. The following four years he 
was in charge of the woolen mills at Millow, Wawayanda township. He was later 
employed in mills at Newtown, Connecticut, and afterward owned woolen mills at 
East Granby, Conn. In 1875 he removed to Newburgh and took charge of a horse 
blanket printing machine manufactory, remaining there only a few months, when he 
returned to Mechanicstown, and operated woolen mills there for five years. He 
then conducted a felt boot manufactory at Howells for a period of twenty-one 
years. He sold his business at Howells, and went to Philadelphia and took the 
management of the Watkinson Felt Boot Factory Co., remaining there two years. 
He was obliged to remove back to Middletown owing to ill health, where he has 
since resided in retirement. He married Miss Hanna Newsome, daughter of James 
Newsome, of Mechanicstown, March 6, 1861. One child was born to this union, 
-who died in infancy. In the fall of 1905 his townsmen of the Third ward nominated 
/him for alderman. He was victorious and has since held the office. He was a dele- 
gate to the Republican state convention eight years. He attends the Episcopal 
>Church and is a member of Hoffman Lodge, No. 412, F. and A. M., of Middle- 
town, N. Y. 

WILLIAM H. O'NEAL was born at Goshen, Orange County, N. Y., March 3, 
1836. He acquired his education at various district schools in the county. At the 
age of sixteen years Mr. O'Neal began learning the painting and decorating trade. 
He married Sarah E. Stone, of Denton, N. Y., December 31, 1855. They had three 
children, Sarah Louise. Henry Lincoln and Charles Francis. His wife died Febru- 
ary 9, 1881. He afterward married Lydia F. Hall of Goshen, N. Y., July 27, 1882. 
She died March i, 1892. 

Mr. O'Neal worked at his trade in New York City twenty j'ears, going there in 
1856. He worked at the navy yard for eleven years. In politics he is a Republican. 
He is a member of Goshen Lodge, No. 365, F. and A. M., and served as master of 
lodge two years. At the breaking out of the Civil War Mr. O'Neal enlisted in the 
84th Regiment, entering as private and later being promoted to captain. He served 
in the defence of Washington and was honorably discharged. In 1863 he re-enlisted 
and served for some time in the Shenandoah Valley. 

HON. JOHN ORR, former assemblyman from the first district of Orange County, 
was born in Cornwall, N. Y., March 5. 1859. He is a son of William and Margaret 
(Elliott) Orr, and is engaged in the flour and coal business at Orr's Mills, which is 
now one of the industrial landmarks of the town of Cornwall. Mr. Orr was 
educated at public and private schools, finishing with a three-year course at Leipsic, 
Germany. On his return home he became a member of the firm of William Orr & 
Sons, dealers in fiour, feed and coal. 

Politically Mr. Orr is a Republican, and has taken an active part in promoting the 
welfare of his party, not only in his native town but throughout the county. In 
addition to representing this district in the state legislature for four years, he was 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 915 

elected a mtmbcr of the board of supervisors, wlicrc he served nine years. He has 
held public oriice in the town of Cornwall for a period of twenty years. Mr. Orr 
is particularly well posted on questions of taxation and parliamentary usage, and in 
close touch with the farming community, recognizing their needs and desires. He 
enjoys the reputation of being a pleasant after-dinner speaker. 

JNIr. Orr is prominently identified with various fraternal organizations, including 
I-'ree Masonry. In August, 1900, he was elected great sachem of the Improved 
Order of Red Men, state of New York, and has also held the office of president 
of the Association of Tribes of the Hudson Valley. 

In 18S8 Mr. Orr was united in marriage with Miss .^ngelique Veith, of New 
\'crk City. They are the parents of two children, Alice and Walter. 

HERMAN 01 TO was born in Sa.xon, Germany, February 22, 1848. He came 
to America in 1869 and married Enmia Wolf, of New Britain, Conn. Nine children 
were born to this union : One daughter died at the age of seventeen years ; Emma, 
wife of Ira Smith, of Monroe, N. Y. ; Herman, who resides in New York City; 
Frank, of Windham, Ohio; Charles, ot Monroe, N. Y. ; Annie Mae, of New York 
City; Arlyne Elsie, Harry and Paul, residing at home. 

Mr. Otto is a member of Luther Lodge, I. O. O. F., of Middletown, and of the 
Cigar Makers' Union of Middletown. His estate, comprising one hundred and 
eighteen acres, is under substantial improvement. Mr. Otto does not depend entirely 
on the products of his farm, for he has a well established cigar manufacturing 
business, which he has carried on successfully for many years. In politics he is a 
Republican and takes an active interest in local afifairs. 

GEORGE A. OWEN, dealer in general merchandise at Washingtonville, N. Y., 
was born in that village in 1842, a son of Hon. Albert G. and Phoebe M. (Breed) 
Owen. His father was also a merchant here, and actively identified with public 
affairs in Orange County. He was one of a committee of three to organize the 
famous 124th Regiinent. He served several terms as supervisor of the town of 
Blooming Grove, and was elected a member of the state assembly in 1S49-1850. In 
1890 Mr. George Owen succeeded to a business that was established in 1812 by 
Samuel MofTatt. The hrm name was subsequently known as Samuel Moffatt & 
Son, and David H. Moffatt, who disposed of it in 1832. Various merchants con- 
ducted the store previous to Mr. Owen, who has enlarged the original building and 
erected the adjoining post office. In 1905 his son, Walter D., became a partner. Mr. 
Owen is a trustee of the Moffatt Library and Presbyterian Church. He is also a 
charter member of the fire company. In 1876 he married Miss Isabelle Board and 
six children have been born to them. 

OSCAR E. OWEN was born February 28, 1845, at Ridgebury, N. Y. His 
early education was acquired at the old Wallkill Academy. After finishing 
school he learned the monumental work and he was identified in that busi- 
ness until 1902, when he retired. He married Emily I'. Mapledoram, of Monti- 



9i6 • THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

cello, Sullivan County, N. Y., July 28, 1868. One son was born of this union, 
Clifford A., born June 7, 1872. He is teller in the First National Bank of Middle- 
town. Mr. Owen is a Republican and has served the city two terms as alderman. 
He is a inember of the Universalist Church. His father, John C. Owen, was born 
in the town of Minisink, Orange County, N. Y. He was born July 16, 1806, and 
died at his daughter's home, Mrs. W. W. Hartford, in Middletown. He was a 
son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Carpenter) Owen, and was brought up on the 
farm. At the age of twenty-one he entered the mercantile business at Huguenot, 
removing to Smith's Corners after two years. He married Adeline, daughter of 
Moses Durland, February 16, 1833. In ^^37 he moved to Ridgebury and ran a 
general store. In 1847 he moved to his farm left him by his uncle, Jesse Parshall, 
Remaining on the farm a few years, he removed to Ridgebury, where he started a 
marble yard, and he continued in that business until 1866 in Ridgebury and Middle- 
town. Then he engaged in the grocery business in Middletown, which he con- 
. tinned for some years, finally selling out to his son-in-law, W. W. Hartford. He 
afterward purchased a residence at 177 North street and retired from active busi- 
ness, remaining in the home until the death of his wife, February 16, 1892, the 
fifty-ninth anniversary of their marriage. He took an active interest in church work 
and was a Republican in politics. 

• ZAEL P.A.DD1LEFORD, merchant, of Monroe, N. Y., was born in Broome 
County, N. Y., in 1866. t[e came to Monroe in 1891 as foreman of the creamery, 
occupying that position about four 3'ears. In 1894 he established his present store, 
and a year later formed a partnership with George R. Conklin, under the firm name 
of Paddleford & Company. Mr. Paddleford has served six years as supervisor of 
the town and is now president of the village. He is secretary of the Orange and 
Rockland Electric Company. Socially Mr. Paddleford is identified with the Masonic 
fraternity. He married Miss Isabella S. Kinney, of Iowa, and their son, Bruce K., 
is attending school in New York City. 

THE PALATINE HOTEL, H. N. and F. N. Bain, proprietors. The appoint- 
ments, accommodations and interior aspect of the Palatine are ideal. It is the 
largest hotel in Orange County and conveniently located in the heart of the city of 
Newburgh. The house contains one hundred and sixteen rooms, about one-half 
of which are so arranged that they may be used separately or en suite for families. 
The house, was established in 1893 and is under the personal supervision of Mr. F. 
N. Bain, who conducts it in accordance with the most modern methods. 

WILLIAM A. PARSHALL is a scion of an old and distinguished Orange 
County family. Jonathan Parshall, his great great grandfather, moved to Little 
Britain in the town of New Windsor, from Long Island, in 1737. His son David 
fought for American freedom in the Revolutionary War. Mr. Parshall's father, 
Caleb Parshall, was born on the old homestead, but when he reached man's estate 
he moved to the farm in Walden, where William A. was born, December 9, 1865. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 917 

In 1870 the family moved to Port Jcrvis, and the boy was sent to the public 
schools, graduating from the high school in the class of 1883. The following year 
he entered Vale and was graduated in 1888. During his senior year he was awarded 
the medal by the Cobden Club of London, England, for work in political economy. 
Mr. Parshall went to the Albany Law School and completed the course in 1889. 
Returning to Port Jervis, he entered the law office of Hon. Lewis E. Carr and in 
May, 1890, was admitted to the bar. The following October, he entered into part- 
nership with Hon. O. P. Howell and R. Ed. Schofield, and the firm was known as 
Howell, Parshall & Schofield. On September i, 1893, he withdrew from the firm 
and has since been successfully engaged in the practice of law in an office of his 
own. He has been a director of the National Bank for fourteen years, is a director 
of the Port Jervis Telephone Company, the Co-Opcrative Loan and Savings So- 
ciety, Orange County Building and Loan Association, No. 2, and is an auditor of 
Port Jervis Building and Loan Association. He has also taken an active interest 
in politics, and when a young lawyer served the town of Deer Park in the office of 
town clerk. At present he is the attorney for the city of Port Jervis, and for twelve 
terms was corporation counsel for the village of Port Jervis. In 1903 Mr. Parshall 
was elected a member of the board of education and since 1904 has been its presi- 
dent. For the past seventeen years he was a trustee of the Presbyterian Church. 
On June I, 1903, Mr. Parshall was united in marriage with Miss Christine Senger, 
daughter of Lewis C. and Florence Corwin Senger. They have three children. 

.■\RTHUR PATCHETT, who for over twenty years was prominently identified 
with business and social afi'airs of Orange County, was born in England in 1847 
and died at Montgomery, N. Y.. November 30, 1901. Mr. Patchett came to America 
in 1S72, locating at Philadelphia, where he followed the business of worsted manu- 
facturer. In 1880 he removed to Montgomery and with the late William Crabtree 
established the yarn plant which soon became one of the important industries of 
the county. Mr. Patchett was a member of the board of water works commis- 
sioners and exerted a wide influence in the affairs of his adopted village. He 
was a member of Walden Lodge, F. and A. M., Royal Arch Masons, Knights 
Templar and Mecca Shrine. In 1874 he married Miss Alice M. Hayes, of Philadel- 
phia. Two sons and a daughter were born to them: Emma M., who resides in 
Montgomery; Joseph E. and .Arthur Allan are engaged in business at Kaiser, 
W. Va. 

FRANK PATTERSON, supervisor of the town of Deer Park, who, with his 
brother, George H., conducts a farm of one hundred acres and a commodious sum- 
mer boarding house known as "Eddy Farm," at Sparrowbush, was born there in 
1865, a son of J. R. and Mary E. (Doty) Patterson. Since finishing his studies at 
the public schools he has been engaged in the cultivation of the homestead farm. 
Politically Mr. Patterson is a democrat and has always taken an active interest in 
the welfare of his party. He has served as highway commissioner and in 1907 
was elected a member of the board of supervisors. 



9i8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mr. Patterson married Miss Sarah Chambers and they are the parents of three 
sons and two daughters : Ruth E., John R., Edward, Dudley and Frances. 

WILLIAM M. PATTON (deceased) was born in the town of New Windsor, 
Orange County, N. Y., May 30, 1834. He was for many years engaged as a farmer 
and cattle dealer, in which he was very successful. In 1895 'ic took up his residence 
in Newburgh, the details cf his cattle business being attended to by his only son, 
John R. Patton, who resides on the Patton homestead, near Washington Lake. Mr. 
Patten was for years a member of the board of directors of the Columbus Trust 
Co., and a member of its finance committee. He was a careful man in financial 
affairs and to him as one of its officers is due much of the prosperity of the 
company. 

Mr. Patton's first wife was Miss Robinson ; she was the mother of John R. Pat- 
ton, who died many years ago. His second wife was formerly Miss Anna F. Johns- 
ton, a daughter of the late Beverly K. Johnston, a prominent business man of East 
Coldenham. 

Mr. Patton died April 16, 1907, and is buried in the Wallkill Valley cemetery, 
Walden, N. Y. 

ALBERT S. PEIRCE, manufacturer, Newburgh. Born Orange County, March, 
i860. Graduated from Newburgh Academy and was then engaged in mercantile 
business in New York City for four years. In 1885 he returned to Newburgh and 
became associated with Coldwell, Wilcox & Co., iron founders and machinists. 
May, i8go, the firm was incorporated as Coldwell-Wilcox & Co., of which Mr. 
Peirce has since been treasurer. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of 
the City Club. In 1885 he married Edith, daughter of the late D)r. Heard, ex- 
president of the board of health. The Peirce ancestry dates back to the Commander 
of the Mayilower. 

HENRY PELTON came to Warwick from Darien, Conn., in 1805. He was a 
small boy at the time, and settled with his father on a farm just west of the village. 
He was always looked upon as one of the most public spirited citizens, foremost 
in every movement for the good of the community, and for the support of his 
church. Many writings of local historical interest, left by him, show him to have 
been possessed of a mind capable of clear thinking, and the ability to express him- 
self in good English. He is remembered as having been one of the pioneers in the 
temperance rpovement in the middle of the last century. He died in 1873, at the 
age of eighty-two. 

SAMUEL PELTON, son of Henry Pelton, spent his life as a farmer, residing for 
over fifty years on the farm now owned by his son, and dying in 1906, nearly 
eighty-eight years of age. Of quiet, gentle disposition, he never aspired to public 
^>rominenc6, yet was ever readv to help in any public-spirited undertaking. He 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 919 

served a term as president of Warwick Institute and was one of the founders and 
for many years a trustee ot the Warwick Savings Bank. 

HENRY PELTON, son of Saniuc! Pclton, resides on tlic farm formerly owned 
by his father. He devotes most of his lime to land surveying and local engineering 
work. He succeeded the late G. W. Sayer as president of the Warwick Valley 
Farmers' Milk Association. ?nd held that office until the sale and dissolution of the 
company in 1907. He is also one of the trustees of the Warwick Savings Bank 
and a director of the Warwick Building Association. 

WILLIAM W. PELTON was born December 15, 1837, and died November 26, 
1907, at his home near Warwick, N. Y. His early education was acquired at the 
district school, and the Warwick Institute, when it was a private school. He after- 
ward became a teacher. He was a member of the board of education when the 
Warwick Institute was made a free school in 1867. He was engaged in business 
in Warwick and New York City for a time. In December, 1867, he married 
Almeda Knapp, daughter of the late John Knapp, of Sugar Loaf, Orange County, 
who survives him. To this union were born four children, John, Grace, wife of 
Frank Holbert of New York; Almeda, and Geraldine, wife of Selah EKirland; also 
two grandsons and two granddaughters. Mr. Pelton was the last of his father's 
family. His brother, James, died in 1856, and Richard in 1898. 

EDGAR PENNEV, vice-president and general manager of the Newburgh Ice 
Machine and Engine Co., is a native of Orange County, and has been identified 
with this company since 1895. Before purchasing the Newburgh plant he was for 
twelve years managing director and mechanical engineer for the Frick Company, 
Waynesboro, Pa., which built his ice machine, known as the "Frick"' or "Eclipse." 
Mr. Penney invented this machine and retains full privilege of manufacture and 
sale under his patents. Among the products of the present concern are the Corliss 
steam engines, steam boilers, iron and brass castings, etc. A force of two hundred 
and fifty men are employed. The main buildings are 200 by 400 feet in dimensions 
and were built in 1883. In 1907 a large addition was erected. 

WILLIAM J. PENOYER began life in Columbia County, N. Y., and after 
leaving the district school at the age of fifteen, he entered a general store and 
remained there for ten years. When twenty-six years of age he went to Albany, 
N. Y., and engaged in the grain business, which he continued until appointed harbor 
master by Governor Hoffman. He was supervisor several years and a director of 
two banks. He was a leading spirit in many improvements in his native county. In 
politics he was a Democrat. 

Mr. Penoyer in 1883 married Anna M. Roe. of Chester, Orange County, and they 
had one daughter, Fannie, born 1886. He died in January. 19014. 



920 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

MILLS PEPPER, son of Elijah and Catura (Crowell) Pepper, is a prosperous 
farmer in the town of Montgomery. The farm, which comprises one hundred and 
forty acres, was purchased by his father, who conducted it over sixty years. Mills 
Pepper, who resides at the homestead with his sister, has conducted it ten years. 
He is a member of Little Britain Grange and takes an active interest in public 
affairs of this locality. 

GEORGE W. PETERS (deceased), a prominent business man of Newburgh, 
was born in Poughkeepsie in 1826, a son of Charles and Phoebe (Dean) Peters. 
At the age of sixteen he engaged with his father in the meat business in New York 
City, and in 1847 became a member of the nrm of Charles Peters & Son, which con- 
tinued until 1863, when he sold the business and moved to Newburgh, where he 
engaged in farming for two and a half years. In 1869 he opened a meat market at 
113 Water street, which he conducted with his sons until 1882, when he retired. 

Mr. Peters was actively identified with public affairs in Newburgh. Under Mayor 
Doyle he was superintendent of streets for two terms. For many years he was 
president of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ; also president of the 
Ht)rse Thief Protective Society. He joined the Masonic fraternity in 1852, and was 
a member of the board of trustees of the Unitarian Church. He died in 1907. 

ALBERT H. F. PHILLIPS was born at Oswego, N. Y., in 1866. His education 
was acvquired at Oswego and the old Middletown Academy, graduating from the 
latter in 1880. His parents were John G. and Mary (Fisher) Phillips. Mr. 
Phillips has been identified with the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad as 
foreman for a period of fourteen years. In igo.\ he assumed the position of master 
pamter of the O. & W. shops, which position he still holds. He was married to 
Elizabeth Anna Heckroth, of Delaware County, N. Y., October 18, 1888. Their one 
child, Clara, was born April 8, 1893. In politics Mr. Phillips is a Republican. He 
has served as inspector of elections at various times and has been a delegate to 
assembly and city conventions. .Socially he is a member of Hoffman Lodge, No. 
412, F. and A. M., Lancelot Lodge, K. of P., and Wallkill Council, Jr. O. U. A. M., 
of Middletown. He is a member of the North Congregational Church and served 
as deacon and treasurer for the past seventeen years. 

JOHN EVERTSON PHILLIPS, of Goshen, N. Y., son of William and Sarah E. 
Phillips, was born in Phillipsburgh, March 20, 1805. Graduated from Williams 
College in 1825. He studied law with Henry G. Wilner and after his admission to 
the bar in 1828 was associated with him in his profession until his death, December 
17, i8-!i. He was married March i, 1832, to Elizabeth T. Wisner, daughter of his 
partner, Henry G. Wisner. There were three daughters born of this union. Miss 
Lfarriet H. is still residing at the home which has been, occupied by the family since 
1S36. 

JOHN F. PIERCE, supervisor of the town of Highlands, was born at Fishkill 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 921 

Landing, N. Y., March 7, 1844. He attended school at Wappingers Falls, and 
during the Civil War served on the schooner Norma, carrying ammunition to the 
various ports. He was subsequently at West Point eight years in the butcher 
business, and removed to Highland Falls in 1S73, where he continued his meat 
market and in later years engaged in the livery business. 

Politically Mr. Pierce is a Republican and has long been identified with public 
aftairs of the town and village. In 1889 he was elected assessor, serving continu- 
ously until the fall of 1907, when he resigned to fill the office of supervisor. Mr. 
Pierce has also served about twelve ycar.s as school trustee. 

GEORGE PIERSON, who has resided on his present estate for about sixty 
years, in the town of TIamptonburgh, is well known in Orange County. He came 
from one of the oldest and most respected families of the state. His great-grand- 
father, Silas Pierson, who came to this county from Long Island about 1750, and 
settled on the old Pierson farm in Hamptonburgh, was the great-grandson of John 
Pierson, who emigrated from England about 1650 and settled at South Hampton, 
Long Island, where he died in i66g. 

George Pierson was born January i, 1824, and is the son of Henry Pierson, also 
a native of the same place. His mother was Miss Mary Shaw, a native of Orange 
County, and four of her eight children grew to manhood and womanhood. Of 
these George was the eldest. Mr. Pierson's father died in 1866 and his mother in 
1853. George Pierson obtained his early education at the district school and after- 
ward became a student of the Amherst Academy, at Amherst, Mass. He married 
.Miss Mary E. Thompson, daughter of Oliver Thompson, December 20, 1848. Their 
union resulted in the birth of four children. In 1849 Mr. Pierson moved to his 
present farm where he has resided over fifty years. He is interested in all public 
affairs and has held the office of justice of the peace since 1869, having served con- 
tinuously with the exception of two years. He served as as.sessor from 1884 to 1899. 
He is a member of Goshen Lodge, Xo. 365, V. and A. M. He was a trustee of the 
Hamptonburgh Presbyterian Church for thirty-nine year<. At the time of Henry 
Clay's nomination for president, in 1844, Mr. I'icrson was not quite of age, but he 
attended the next town meeting and has been in attendance ever since with one 
exception, in 1888. which was the only time he failed, and has attended every gen- 
eral election since he was of age. He was a member of the old Campbell Hall 
Grange, now out of existence. Mr. Pierson has a well stocked dairy farm and is 
new retired. 

JOIIX PIERSON, of the town of Mount Hope, was born on the homestead 
f.irm, near Otisville, Orange County, N. Y., in 1834. His father was Sila.s G. and 
mother Salome B. (Cook) Pierson. Four children were born of this union. Two 
died in infancy. Harriet N., wife of Alsop W. Dodge, of Otisville, died July 20, 
1897. John Pierson acquired his early education at the district school in his 
locality and at the public school at Middletown. He has resided on his present farm 
for a period of over seventy ycar< 11 «■ i> ;i Republican in politics and takes an 



922 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

active part in local affairs. He lias been assessor for twenty years, has served as 
inspector of election for the town of Mount Hope about fifteen years, is a member 
of the Otisville Presbyterian Church and the Otisville Grange. His children are 
Siias G. and John M.. of Denver, Colo.; Frank and Cora, at home; Helen G., wife 
of Ebenezer Bull ; Saloma C, of Philadelphia, and Susan C, a teacher at Amity- 
ville, Long Island. 

GEORGE A. POST, a successful contractor and builder, of Port Jervis, N. Y., 
was born at Saugerties, Ulster County, N. Y., and there learned his trade of car- 
penter. In 1889 he engaged in the contracting business at Port Jervis, and since 
that time has erected many of that city's prominent business blocks and residences. 
Mr. Post is a member of the Elks, and Confidence Lodge, No. 5, I. O. O. F., of 
Saugerties. He has served as trustee of the village and was one of the first alder- 
men when Port Jervis became a city. He married Hannah J. Bross, of Ten Mile 
River, Sullivan County, and they have four children : Fannie E., who married 
Charles Clark; George H., a mail carrier, married Tillie Headley; Minnie, residing 
at home, and Lillie, a school teacher at Westbrookville, this county. 

A. E. POWERS, manager of the Port Jervis plant of Swift & Co., is a native 
of Charleston, N. H.. and has occupied this responsible position for a period of 
eleven years. Mr. Powers is prominent in business and social circles and is identi- 
fied with the Masonic fraternity, the l-^lks and Odd Fellows. 

JAMES J. PROCTOR was born September i, 1878, at Greycourt, Orange County, 
N. Y. He acquired his early education in the schools of Orange County and at an 
early age he became associated with his father, John R. Proctor, in the management 
of the hotel at Greycourt. His father was a charter member of the Walton Hose 
Company, of Chester, N. Y., and a respected and energetic business man. 
James was married June 12, 1006, to Mary Gardner, of Highland Falls, N. Y. Mr. 
Proctor has been first assistant foreman of the Walton Hose Company, of Chester, 
for over four years, and has been a member ten years. His brother, Henry J., was 
born May 27, 1875, and is identified with him in the hotel business at Greycourt. 
Their father died January 29, 1904. 

CHARLES PURDY was born March 15, 1842, in Sullivan County, near New 
Vernon, N. Y. His parents were Ebenezer and Hettie (Warner) Purdy. There 
were nine children in the parents' family, of whom six are still living. Charles 
attended the district schools in Sullivan County, after which he worked at farming 
until 1864. He then engaged with the Erie Railroad as brakeman and later had 
charge of a construction and switch engine for some time. 

He married Jessie .A.. Wardrop. of Goshen, N. Y., October 18, 1876. Mr. Purdy 
is now baggage master at the Erie and has served since 1883. His wife, who died 
December 22, 1905, was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Middletown. 



JjIOGRAPHICAL. 923 

JOHN H. QUAID, who conducts a wholesale and retail grocery store in Water 
street, N'ewburgh, succeeded to the business that was established in 1834 by his 
father, John Quaid, a native of Limerick County, Ireland, who came to Newburgh 
when a young man and began business in Oldtown at the junction of what is now 
Liberty street and Gidney avenue, where he remained until 1850, when he removed 
to the present location, 136 Water street. In 1857 his eldest son, William, became 
a partner and the firm was changed to John Quaid Si Son. In 1871 John H. pur- 
chased his father's interest and the firm of William Quaid & Brother was formed, 
continuing -.mtil i88i, when William retired and John H. has since continued the 
business. Mr. Quaid has acquired much valuable real estate in Newburgh. 

The parents of their mother, whose maiden name was McGathern, settled on a 
farm m the town of Blooming Grove in 1807. It is said of their grandmother that 
she was awarded the first premium for butter making for many years by the Agri- 
cultural Society. 

Mr, John H. Quaid married Margaret Lord Fanclicr, daughter of Lewis Fancher, 
of Cornwall. She w^as a Daughter of the Revolution and at the time of her 
death in 1896 was president of St. Luke's Hospital, of which her husband was a 
trustee. Mr. Quaid is a member of the Citv Club. Newburgh Historical Society, 
and with his brother, W'illiam, a vestryman of St. Paul's Church. 

WILLIAM B. RAMAGE was born in Branchville, Sussex County, N. J., January 
16, 1858, and was educated in the Branchville and Morristown schools and the S. S. 
Seward Institute, of Florida, Orange County. In 1866 he learned the trade of 
carriage painting with Abraham Watts, of Florida, worked for him three years, 
and in 1S71 engaged in business for himself in Florida, where he has continued 
during the thirty-six years intervening. Being a zealous Republican and an active 
political worker, he has held office for the past twelve years, and is now overseer of 
the poor and constable. He is a member of Wawayanda Lodge, No. 34, I. O. O. F., 
and of Warwick Lodge, No. 544, F. and A. M. He married May Jane Givens, of 
Florida, June 3, 1870. They have had ten children, only four of whom are living. 
Hattie, wife of Charles Hall, of Paterson, N. J.; Frank P., at home; Jessie, wife 
of M. Barry, of Florida, and Leon, at home. The mother is an earnest and active 
Methodist. 

Mr. Ramage's father came to this country from England when he was ten years 
of age, went to Sussex County, N. J., and has resided there since. His wife's name 
was Elizabeth and they were the parents of fourteen children. 

HOMER RAMSDELL, for a century the foremost citizen of Newburgh, N. Y., 
was born at Warren. Mass., August 12. 1810. His father was Joseph Ramsdell. the 
fourth of that naine in descent from Joseph and Martha ( Bowker) Ramsdell. wh:^ 
emigrated from England to Plymouth. Mas«.. in 1643. His mother was Ruth 
.Stockbridge, of Hanover, Mass., a descendant of John Stockbridge, who came from 
England in 1638. They were married at Hanover February 3, 1800, and moved to 
Warren, where the following children were born : Joseph, Mary and Homer. In 



924 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1829 Homer went to New 'i^ork City, where he was employed in dry goods houses. 
Three years later he began business there under the firm name of Ramsdell & 
Brown, dealers in silks and fancy white goods. He continued this mercantile 
career until 1840, when he took up his permanent residence in Newburgh, superin- 
tending the various interests of Mr. Thomas Powell, who was engaged in shipping 
and banking business here in 1S44 j\fr. Ramsdell became a member of the firm 
of Thomas Powell & Co., .nnd thenceforth until Mr. Powell's death in 1856 he was 
largelv the administrator of Mr. Powell's altairs. By purchase and consolidation 
Mr. Ramsdell added other forwarding lines to his enterprises and soon stood at 
the head of the transportation business on the Hudson. Details of Mr. Ramsdell's 
connection with the Erie Railroad appear elsewhere. In 1845 he was elected a mem- 
ber of the board of directors of this corporation and in 1853 was chosen president 
of the company, resigning the office in July, 1857. He was intimately identified with 
the various local institutions of Newburgh and a prompt contributor to all progres- 
sive and elevating movements of his day. 

Mr. Ramsdell was married June 16, 1835, to Frances E. L., daughter of Thomas 
Powell, of Newburgh, and the following children survive: Frances J., widow of 
Major George W. Rains ; James A. P., H. Powell and Homer Stockbridge. 



WILLIAM CHESTER RAMSDELL, the subject of this sketch, was born in the 
town of Greenville. Greene County, N. Y., December 29, 1858. His father was 
Luman S. Ramsdell, a nephew of Luman Ramsdell, of Norton Hill, who was con- 
nected with the State Agricultural .Society and has had much to do wth the agricul- 
tural interests of the state and also with the co-operative or mutual insurance com- 
panies, he having established practically the first mutual insurance company in the 
s;tate of New York. 

The mother of William C. Ramsdell was Laura Ann Gedney before her marriage, 
and a direct descendant from an officer of the Revolutionary army. 

When about seven years old the parents of VTUiam C. Ramsdell moved to 
Albany County, where his life was spent upon a farm until after he was of age. 
He attended the couiitry schools and the academy which was established at South 
Westerlo. Later he attended Starkey Seminary and after teaching in the country 
schools for a few years he took the three-year normal course at Antioch College, 
Yellow Springs. Ohio, the institution made famous by Horace Mann, who was its 
first president. After teaching a year or two in the public schools a course was 
taken with the Albany Business College and a year spent as teacher of commercial 
subjects in the high school at Attica, Indiana, after which Mr. Ramsdell entered the 
regular business college work with the Goldev College at Wilmington, Delaware. 

At the close of the year's work the subject of this sketch was married to Miss 
Elizabeth C. Van Trump, of Wilmington, Delaware. The next four years were 
spent with the Drake Business School at Jersey City, N. J. 

In 1895 Mr. Ramsdell opened the Ramsdell School in Middletown, N. Y., and for 
the last twelve vears has conducted the school on North street. The school has 



BIOGRAPHICAL. ijzs 

continued to grow and lias attained an excellent reiJiitalion in Orange County and 
vicinity for thorough and efficient work. 

J.\JMES RAZEY, who resides near Florida, Orange County, is one of the repre- 
sentative agriculturists of that section. He was born on a farm near Harnell, 
Chemung County, N. Y., February i6, 1851. His education was acquired at the 
district school and Alfred University. He removed to Elmira, where he was en- 
gaged in art work for a period of ten years. From Elmira he removed to 
Chester, N. "V., and purchased the "Broadview" farm, which he successfully con- 
ducted for ten years. He built the unique Razey cottage at Chester, which is one 
of the artistic houses in the county. His father died August 6, 1864, of yellow fever. 
His mother's name was Abigail Withey. There were four children in his parents' 
family. Our subject married Susan, daughter of David R. and Anna Feagles. 
Their three children are Ethel Denton, aged twenty-three years; Danforth, aged 
twenty years, and James Lester, aged seventeeii years. Mr. Razey married for his 
•second wife Mrs. Phoebe J. Smith, of Florida, October 16, 1906. He occupies a 
dairy farm of one hundred and sixty acres. 

Mr. Razey is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Chester and in politics is i 
republican. 

CHARLES IRA REDFIELD, M. D., was born in the town of Wallkill, Orange 
County, January 31, 1873. He is a son of Foster C. died P^bruary 6, 1875, and 
Sarah Louise (Fanning) Redtield, still living. The subject of this sketch attained 
his early education at the Walkill .Academy and graduated in 1891. He also 
attended the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania of 1891-4, gradu- 
ating June 7, 1894. In the fall of 1894 he attended the Presbyterian Hospital out- 
patient department of Philadelphia, Pa., until Februar}', 1895. I" the spring of 
1895 he opened an office in Middletown. He is now visiting physician of the Thrall 
Hospital. He has served as secretary of the New York State Medical Association 
1904-5. Secretary Orange County ^Medical Association 1901-4, and was president 
Orange County Medical Society during 1905. He is a charter member of the B. C. 
Hirst Obstetrical Society of Philadelphia, Pa. He is a member of Hoffman Lodge, 
Xo. 412, F. and A. M. ; Midland Chapter, R. A. ^L, Xo. 240, and Cypress Command- 
ery, No. 67. He was one of the organizers of the physicians" club of Middleotwn ; a 
member of Middletown University Club, National Geographic Society, American 
Society of Sanitary and Moral Prophylaxis, and a member of the board of educa- 
tion. He was health officer in 1898 and is a member and a trustee of the Second 
Presbyterian Church. Dr. Redficld married Miss Ira Anna Louise Barker, of Rox- 
bury, Mass., October 20, 1S97. 

GEORGE W. REED was born July. i8.|4. at South Ccntrevillc, in what was then 
the town of Minisink, but now in the town of Wawayanda, Orange County. Born 
of Scotch parentage he was reared on the homestead farm and received a common 
school education. At the opening of the war he enlisted in the Union Army. October, 



926 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1861, as a member of Company C, First New York Mounted Rifles. He was sent with 
his company to Virginia, participating in the battle of Petersburg and other engage- 
ments of the war. He was mustered out at Albany as corporal in December, 1865, 
having served more than four years. After the war he returned to Middletown 
and worked at the carpenter's trade, and has been identitied with building and con- 
tracting business there for many j^ears. He is a charter member of Captain Wil- 
liam A. Jackson Post, No. 301, G. A. R., and is its commander. He is a member of 
the First Congregational Church of jNIiddletown, N. Y. He is a republican and has 
filled many local offices and is at present a member of the board of education. 

HENRY WILSON REED was born at Middletown, Orange County, N. \'., 
November 3, 1875. His education was acquired at the old Wallkill Academy. 
After his schooling he became identified with Fort Wayne Electric Light Co. for a 
period of seven years. From 1889 to 1891 he was vice-president of the Enterprise 
Electric Co., of Middletown, N. Y. In 1896 he engaged in the electrical construc- 
tion business, which business he still carries on. He has done the electrical work 
in the best homes and public buildings in Orange County, and is endorsed by the 
State Underwriters' Association. He married Helen K. Biddlebrook, only daugh- 
ter of William H. Wood, of Chester, N. Y., April 9, 1901. 

In politics Mr. Reed is a republican. He is a member of the Wallkill Engine Co. 
of Middletown and the National Electrical Contractors' Association of America. 
He is a member of the First Congregational Church of Middletown, N. Y. 

ALA.RK REEKS, president and treasurer of the John G. Wilkinson Company, 
Newburgh, N. Y'., wholesale and retail dealers in carriages, harness, etc., was born 
in London in 1869. Came to America in 1888, and entered the employ of John G. 
Wilkinson as bookkeeper. Following the death of Mr. Wilkinson in 1905 Mr. 
Reeks became executor and manager of the estate and in 1906 purchased the Wil- • 
kinson interest and the present company was organized. The business of which Mr. 
Reeks is now the head was established in 1867 and the trade extends throughout 
New England, New Jersey and New Y'ork. 

JOHN REILLY, assessor of the town of Highlands, Orange County, N. Y., has 
ably filled that office for the past twenty years. He is a native of County Mayo, 
Ireland, and sailed for America in 1863 on the old ship France. He was employed 
for a time at Poughkeepsie and Newburgh, and in 1870 came to West Point and 
joined the United States Cavalry, in which he served five years, including one year 
and a half in the ordnance department. In 1875 Mr. Reilly established his hotel and 
livery, which he has conducted with much success. He has always taken an active 
interest in politics and is a member ot the Republican county committee. Socially 
he is a member of the Knights of Honor and the A. O. H. He married Miss Jane 
Cook, daughter of ex-Supervisor Cook. He was appointed postmaster of Highland 
Falls under President McKinley"? administration, but declined the office. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. q27 

A. SMITH RING, for many years prominent in financial and public aftairs of 
Ncwburgh, was born in fhat city in 1838, a son of Thomas C. and Catherine 
(Speir) Ring After graduating from the academy, he was employed by the 
Powell Bank until 1858, when he became connected with the Newburgh Savings 
Bank, of which his father was treasurer. The latter part of Mr. Ring's life was 
spent in retirement from active btisiness pursuits, devoting his attention to the 
management of his large property interests. 

A firm believer in the principles of the democratic party, he was elected city 
treasurer in 1875. He was appointed one of the trustees of Washington's head- 
quarters and treasurer of the board. He was a member of the board of managers 
of the Associated Charities and took a deep and active interest in philanthropic 
work. 

October 5, 1881, Mr. Ring was united in marriage with Miss Frances Ludlow, 
daughter of the late George W. Kerr. One child, Thomas Ludlow, was born 
to them. 

In the death of Mr. Ring, which occurred July 8, 1893, Newburgh lost a citizen of 
more than ordinary ability, who occupied a high place in the regard of his asso- 
ciates. 

SAMUEL D. ROBERSON, of Bullville, Orange County, N. Y., was born in 
the town of Crawford in 1849, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Martin) Roberson. 
His father was a native of Westchester County, and for many years was proprietor 
of the Bullville Hotel. Our subject was educated at the public schools and for three 
years managed the Bullville Hotel. He then built a creamery and was also engaged 
in a general mercantile business. 

As a leader in democratic politics Mr. Roberson is widely known to the voters 
of Orange County. He was chosen chairman of the democratic county committee 
in 1896, and for twelve years was elected to the oftice of supervisor in Craw- 
ford town. 

In 1870 Mr. Roberson married Miss Hannah Powles of Newburgh. Seven 
children were born to them, of whom four sons and one daughter are living. 

HON. CHARLES DWIGHT ROBINSON was born in Auburn, Cayuga County, 
N. Y., February 6, i860. He was educated in the public schools of his native city. 

Mr. Robinson is a descendant of George Rohnison, who settled in Rehoboth, in 
the State of Massachusetts, in 1645. His ancestry on both sides was very active 
in the trying times of the American Revolution. His father, William Philip Robin- 
son, located in Auburn in 1844; his niother was Louise E., daughter of William 
Clark Smith and Aner Lewis. Mr. Smith was a grandson of Anning Smith, of 
Milton, Ulster County, N. Y.. an officer in the Revolutionary War. On the paternal 
side of Mr. Robinson, his ancestors, Zephaniah Robinson and Philip Robinson, 
served in Massachusetts regiments, Philip being a sergeant. William Robinson, a 
cousin of Philip, served in a Connecticut regiment, in the Revolution. 

Mr Robinson, since lea\ing school, has been active in many lines of usefulness, 



928 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

which he was well adapted fcr. Prior to 1883 he was cashier for the Chicago 
branch of D. M. Osborne & Co., of Auburn. He removed to Newburgh, N. Y., in 
November. 1883, and entered the firm of John Dales & Co., real estate and insurance, 
where he has since continued. 

Mr. Robinson in politics is a republican. He hss been identified with municipal 
affairs of Newburgh since 1894, first serving as alderman from his (Fourth) ward 
in 1894 and 1895 ; president of the common council from March, 1895, to March, 
1900, and from March. 1904, to March, 1906. He became well informed as to the 
city's conditions and needs, and being a thorough, economical business man, he 
was chosen as its mayor in 1906-1907. He has been trustee of Washington's head- 
quarters since 1893, having been appointed by Governor Roswell P. Flower, and re- 
appointed by Governors Black, Odell and Hughes. 

Mr. Robinson is a member of the Sons of the Revolution, the Historical Society 
of the Newburgh Bay and the Highlands, Hudson River Lodge, No. 52; Hudson 
River Commandery, No. 35 ; Knight Templar ; the Robinson Genealogical Society, 
and the Newburgh City Club. He has been married twice. His first marriage was 
to Mary B. Dales, February 16, 1882. They had one daughter, Julia. Mrs. Robin- 
son died January 14, 1900. His second marriage was to Anna B. Colwell, January 
30, 1902. They have one son, Charles D., Jr. 

JAMES ROBERTSON was born December 6, 1846, at Liberty, Sullivan 
County, N. Y. His parents were Bronson and Abigail (Stoddard) Robertson. 
Our subject acquired his education at the public school. At an early age he 
learned the carpenters' trade, which he followed for some years. He joined the 
navy in 1864 and was assigned the position as ship carpenter on the Siveet Briar, 
one of the boats that made up the South Atlantic blockading squadron. He served 
until 1866 and received an honorable discharge. After the war he resided in 
Chicago for three years, after which he returned to Monticello, Sullivan County, 
and followed his trade for a time. He was identified with the Erie R. R. at Port 
Jervis for ten years as foreman of the carpenters' department of the Delaware 
division. In 1902 he was appointed manager of the bottling department of the 
Deer Park Brewery, and in 1906 was made general manager, which position he 
still holds. Mr. Robertson married Mary E. Kinne, of Monticelloi, N. Y., March 
2, 1871. Socially he is a member of the Port Jervis Lodge No. 328, F. & A. M., 
Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. 

FREDERICK O. ROCKAFELLOW, one of the leading funeral directors and 
embalmers of Middletown, N. Y., was born in that city May 14, 1864. After grad- 
uating from the Middletown High School and Wallkill Academy, he entered the 
undertaking establishment of his father, John D. Rockafellow, and acquainted him- 
self with every detail of the business. Upon the death of his father, Frederick came 
into possession of the 'business, whicii he has since conducted successfully. This 
business was established by his father in 1861, and is the oldest establishment of 
the kind in Middletown. John D. Rockafellow was one of Middietown's most 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 929 

progressive- and public spirited citizens, lie was chief c>f tlie fire department for 
many years and always took a deep interest and lent ready aid in the furtherance 
of projects benefiting the community. Frederick O. Rockafellow married Marguerite 
R. Oliver, of Chicago, 111., and to them have been born two sons: Frederick O.. 
Jr., and John D. Air. Rockafellow is a member of Lancelot Lodge, No. 169, K. of 
P.; an honorary member of the Excelsior hook and ladder company and a member 
of the Middietown Club. The family attend Westminster Church. 

LEWIS X. L. ROCKWELL was born at Narrowsburg, Sullivan County, N. Y., 
A[ay 12, 1875. He attained his education at the public school. He also attended 
the Albany business college. In t8o6 he accepted a position as bookkeeper in New 
York City in a wholesale house. November 6, 1905, he removed to Otisville and 
purchased the general store cf Joel Northrop, wiiere he has since continued the 
business. He married Miss Irene Bloomberg, of Narrowsburg, January 10, 1900. 
In politics he is a democrat. Socially he is a member of the Modern Woodmen 
of America. There were thirteen children in his parents' family and there are still 
living four sons and two daughters. His brother, George W., has served two terms 
as county clerk of Sullivan County. 

ALFRED B. ROE, of Chester, N. Y., was born at that place June 9, 1880. He 
graduated from Chester Acadcmv and later attended Lafayette College, at Easton, 
Pa. Following his schooling he assisted his father on the home farm. He mar- 
ried Frances A. Decker, of Chester. April 3, 1902. and they have one son, Alfred 
Russell, born January 30, 1905. 

Mr. Roe's parents were Alfred Booth and Martha (Durland) Roe. The home- 
stead farm has been in the possession of the family for about one hundred and 
seventy-five years. Mr. and Mrs. Roe are members of the First Presbyterian 
Church of Chester. 

D. HOWELL ROE, of Florida, Orange County, was born October 25, 1838. 
.After he finished his district school education, at the age of eighteen, he became 
clerk in William Vail's grocery store and worked there several years, when he en- 
gaged in the livery business at Chester, near the Erie Railroad station. He sold out 
a few years later and opened a grocery and feed store in Chester, which he con- 
ducted uiitil his death, November 29, 1880. He was town clerk and supervisor many 
years, holding the latter office until poor health obliged him to decline a re- 
nominatir)n by the democratic party, to which he belonged. He went South, re- 
mained there a year, and afterward spent two winters there for his health. He was 
a member of the Standard Lodge of Chester and of the Methodist Church. He 
married Elizabeth Rysdyk, of Chester, June 7, 1S54. Their two children died in 
infancy. 

FRED ROGERS, manufacturer, of Middietown, N. Y., was born at Brewster, 
Putnam Coimty, N. Y.. July 12, 1859. His parents were both of English extraction, 



930 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

his father, Joseph, having been born near Oxford, and his mother, Penelope Wilkin, 
near Bristol, England. Joseph Rogers settled at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and engaged 
in the manufacture of drums and banjo heads, afterward removing to Blooming- 
burgh, Sullivan County, N. Y., where he learned his trade. Fred obtained his 
education at the district school at Bloomingburg and Snooks Academy at Monti- 
cello, N. Y. After leaving school he entered the drum head manufactory of his 
father at Bloomingburg, and continued with him until the death of the latter in 
1901, when he succeeded to the business. His mother died in 1896. Mr. Rogers 
married Harriet Pellet Moore, of Middletown, N. Y., November 28, 1888, and four 
children were born to them: Penelope, Ruth Bradner, died November 25, 1907; 
Helen Hyde and Clara Elizabeth. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum and 
Knights of Pythias. His brother, Joseph, now conducts the factory established by 
his father at Bloomingburg. Mr. Rogers opened his present factory at Mechanics- 
town, near Middletown, in 1897. 

WILLIAM H. ROGERS was born December 29, 1845. in Sullivan County, N. Y. 
He is a son of James and Elizabeth Rogers. In 1859 he moved to Middletown, 
where he acquired his education, attending the old Orchard street school and Wall- 
kill Academy. He engaged in the drug business in 1868, and is at present senior 
member of the drug firm of McMonagle & Rogers, of Middletown. He married 
Miss Amelia Chattle, of Middletown, May ig, 1869. To this union three children 
were born : Fred S., Thomas C, district attorney of Orange County, and Elizabeth, 
wife of Wickham Wisner Young, of Middletown. Mr. Rogers supports the re- 
publican party. He is ex-president of the board of education, ex-member of the 
board of water commissioners, and president of the board of managers of Middle- 
town State Homeopathic Hospital and ex-president of the New York State Phar- 
maceutical Association, charter member Monhagen hose company, member Royal 
Arcammi, Concordia Council, No. 1077, and Hoffman Lodge, No. 412, F. and 
A. M., of Middletown. 

CHARLES W. ROSE was born September 9, 1836, at Canajoharie, N. Y. He 
attended the district school at Amsterdam. At an early age he learned the milling 
business, and has been identified with that for many years. He worked at 
the Tivoli Railroad Mills, at Albany, which was built previous to the Revolu- 
tionary War. In 1850 he operated the Garden City Mill, at Chicago, for two years. 
He was an engineer on the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad be- 
tween Albany and .Syracuse. He returned to Albany and ran the engine in the 
same mill for a period of four vears after it was operated by steam. In 1863 he 
went to New York City, taking charge of the William Tildert & Nephew Varnish 
Works, which position he held for twelve years, after which he spent two years 
abroad. Mr. Rose then came to Burnside, Orange County, and purchased the saw 
and grist mill, which he operated for eight years in connection with a general 
store. He has been postmaster of Burnside for several years. In politics he is a 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 931 

republican and served one term as supervisor, and as justice of the peace several 
years. 

He married Sophia Schwcishclm, oi Hanover, Germany. Three children were 
born to this union. One died, by accident, aged twenty-one years ; Harry, with 
the Mead Morrison Manufacturing Company, of New York, and Frieda Dorothy, 
residing at home. Mr. and Mrs. Rose are members of the Presbyterian Church at 
Campbell Hall. 

HENRY ELKANAH ROSE is one of nine children of Silas and Elmira Rose, 
and was born at Sugar Loaf, Orange County, February 15, 1850. He attended the 
district school and the Seward Institute at Florida, after which he assisted his 
father on the farm until he was eighteen, when he learned the wheelwright trade 
and, later, blacksmithing, and his since been an industrious man in these occupations 
and farming. He is a member of the Sugar Loaf Methodist Church and politically 
is a democrat. September 23, 1878, he married Mary Fitzgerald of Warwick, and 
they have three children: Nellie E., born April 11. 1880, wife of Henry Ames, of 
Stamford, N. Y. ; Edith S., born March 10, 1883, wife of Fletcher A. Herrod, of 
Miami, Florida, and Floyd William Dudley, born September 2, 1884, living in 
Ma.xwell, Neb. The grandmother of Mrs. Rose was Mary Booth, a granddaughter 
of Sarah Wells, reputed to be the first white woman who came to Orange 
County. 

JOSEPH H. ROSE, retired brick manufacturer, Newburgh N. Y. ; born at Ham- 
burg, N. Y., 1865; son of John C. and Phoebe (Myers) Rose; removed with his 
parents to Haverstraw, N. Y., where he attended the academy; has resided in New- 
burgh since 1883, when the Rose Brick Company was established at Roseton, 
Orange County, N. Y., with which Joseph H. was connected until 1902, when he 
retired from active business. 

ELMER E. ROOSA, attorney, of Newburgh, N. Y., was born in New Paltz. 
Ulster County, N. Y., in 1861. ?le is of Holland ancestry and came to Newburgh 
with bis parents in 1870. After graduating from the academy, he read law in the 
office of Messrs. Scott & Hirschberg, and was admitted to the bar in 1882. He 
continued in the office of his preceptors, and when Mr. Hirschberg was advanced 
to a judicial position, Mr. Roosa took up the extensive practice attending the office. 
Mr. Roosa is vice-president of the Newburgh Planing Mill and interested in 
various local enterprises. He is a tnember of the Hudson River Lodge, F. and 
A. ^L; Highland Chapter and Hudson River Commandery. 

EDW.\RD C. ROSS, treasurer o? the Colduell Lawn Mower Company, has been 
identified with this important industry since its incorporation. He is a native of 
Newburgh, a son of Henry and Jane (Cleland) Ross. After graduating from the 
Newburgh Academy and Eastman Business College he fonned a partnership with 
his brother George H., to continue the flour and grist mill established by their 



932 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

father. He disposed of his interest in 190.3 to devote his entire attention to the 
manufacture of lawn mowers. For two years he represented the company abroad, 
with headquarters in London, England. Mr. Ross was for many years a member 
of the Newburgh board of education. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity 
and a member of the City Club. He married Miss Jennie M. Coldwell, and two 
sons and a daughter have been born to them. 

SEWARD U. ROUND, attorney, of Newburgh, was born in Florida, Orange 
County, N. Y., in 1856. He was educated at Seward Institute, attended Albany 
Law School, and was admitted to the bar in 1880. Formed partnership with 
Eugene A. Brewster, Jr., which was continued two years, when the firm of Round 
& Chatterton was organized and continued until the death of Mr. Chatterton. 

Mr. Round is a member of the Chapter and Commandery in the Masonic order, 
and is affiliated with Trinity M. E. Church. 

John Wesley Round, the father of Seward U. Round, v;as born July 22, 1822, 
at Richfield, Otsego County, N. Y., and died at Florida, N. Y., January 5, 1862, 
aged thirty-nine years. 

John W. Round graduated from Wesleyan University, Middletown, Conn., in 
the class of 1843, and after teaching at various points assumed the principalship 
of S. S. Seward Institute at Florida, N. Y., where he remained from 1851 to 1862, 
the date of his death. He was called to other higher institutions of learning, but 
at the request and desire of Wm. H. Seward, who was closely identified with the 
institute, he was prevailed upon to remain and conduct the Seward Institute, 
which was in a flourishing condition at his death. John W. Round was a linguist, 
mastering no less than seven languages and also a natural-born musician, playing 
several instruments skilfully. Socially the whole community and those who knew 
him will give constant testimony of his great success and attainments, and his 
scholastic ability can be attested by many men now in prominent public life. 

JOSEPH W. ROWLAND, general superintendent of the New York Knife 
Company, mention of which appears elsewhere in this work, was born in Connecti- 
cut in 1849. He came with his father, Joseph Rowland, to Walden, in 1856, and 
learned the cutlery trade. In 1884, upon the death of his father, he was made 
general superintendent and ultimately succeeded him as vice-president of the 
company, continuing in that office until the reorganization of the company. Mr. 
Rowland is a director of the Walden Savings Bank and trustee of the Wallkill 
V^alley Cemetery Association. 

HENRY RUDOLPH, former supervisor of the Fifth ward, Newburgh, was 
born in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, in 1853, a son of Henry and Wilhelmina (Helfinch) 
Rudolph, who were natives of the same province. At the age of fifteen Mr. 
Rudolph was apprenticed to learn the baker's trade. In 1870 he sailed for New 
York, where he worked at his trade. He was for a time in business in Matteawan, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 93^^ 

N. v., and in 1880 came to Ncubiirgli, where; he lias built up an extensive whole- 
sale and retail bakery business. 

Politically Mr. Rudolph is a republican and has always taken an active part to 
advance the interests of his party. He has represented his ward in the common 
council, and in 1902 was elected a member of the board of supervisors and con- 
tinuously re-elected to serve until December 31, 1907. 

ARCHIBALD E. RUGGLES was born at Windsor, Vt. His parents were Edgar 
M. and Emma S. Ruggles. He acquired his early education at the public school in 
his home town. At an early age Mr. Ruggles identified himself with a clothing 
firm in Clarcmont, X. H., and was there seven years, after going to Xcw Berlin, 
X. v., where he took the management of a store. In April, 1902, he purchased 
the John E. Adams store in Middletown, which he still operates. He was married 
to Miss Minnie L. Ainsworth, of Claremont, X. H., October 18, 1899. In politics 
Mr. Ruggles is a republican. Socially he is a member of Phoebus Lodge, No. 82, 
E. and A. M., of Xew Berlin, X. Y., and of Concordia Council, Xo. 1077, Royal 
Arcanum, of Middletown. He was elected exalted ruler of the Elks' Lodge, X'o. 
1097, of Middletown, X. V., at the institution of the lodge, December 31, 1907. 

GEORGE M. SANFORD was the third son of the late Deacon Ezra Sanford. 
and was born in the town of Warwick on November 5, 1821. His mother was the 
late Adeline Terry. His brothers were Pierson Ezra (and only survivor), Uriah 
Terry and William ISIore. His sisters were Hester Ann Price, Mary Elizabeth, 
Julia A. Morehouse, Abigail Gabriel and Emily S. Tuttle. The two last named are 
still living. He married Frances Amelia, a daughter of the late Captain Xathaniel 
Wheeler Baird. They celebrated their golden wedding in 1897. Mr. Sanford died 
on January 6, 1900, and left surviving his widow^ and the following children : 
Lansing Haight (who died the same year), Ferdinand Van Derveer, George Alden, 
Mary Elizabeth, John Wheeler and Francis Baird. Lansing Haight left one child, 
Mrs. Edward W. Everitt, of Newark, N. J. 

Mr. Sanford was one of Warwick's most unostentatious and sterling citizens. 
He was for many years prominent in business and associated with the substantial 
and conservative institutions of the valley. He was one of the organizers and 
directors of the First National Bank, a promoter and director of the Warwick 
Valley Railroad Company, succeeded by the present Lehigh and Hudson River 
Railwa>. 

He was the first and continuous president of the Warwick Cemetery Associa- 
tion, a model for success and careful methods. He was a successful farmer and 
tinancicr. 

He was an ardent republican in politics and rarely missed voting. Without be- 
ing an oHicc seeker he was at one time the supervisor of the town. Being an ardent 
patriot and unable in the early sixties to qualify as a soldier and go to the front, 
he aided by recruiting between fifty and sixty men for service under his coun- 
try's flag 



934 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

He had a most equable disposition; kindly and charitable. He took a great in- 
terest in young men and loved to help them, and not a few in the town owe much 
of success to the wise counsel and start in life he gave them. 

A quiet vein of humor was always ready to manifest itself when that part of his 
nature was appealed to. He was also noted for his hospitable traits, and many, 
far and near, will testify to sharing the comforts and pleasantries of his attrac- 
tive home. 

JAMES EVERETT SANFORD was born at Sandfordville, near Warwick, 
January 21, 1859. His education was obtained at the public school at Warwick. 
After his schooling he was connected with the Demarest creamery near Warwick 
for nearly two years. He then clerked for A. J. Burt at Bellvale for two years, 
after which he took the management of the home farm. During the summer of 
1887 Mr. Sanford traveled in Europe. In 1889 he became identified with R. C. 
Williams & Co., wholesale grocers, of New York, and continued with this firm 
nearly twelve years as traveling salesman. In the fall of 1901 he was elected 
county treasurer and served the county in an efficient manner for six years. So- 
cially he is a member of Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. and A. M., Warwick Club 
and Sons of the Revolution. In politics he is a republican. He is treasurer and 
director of the Warwick Knife Co. and attends the Baptist Church of Warwick. 

JOHN W. SANFORD. Among the leading business men of Warwick, none 
have done more for the upbuilding and advancement of the town than the gentle- 
man whose name heads this review. He was born May 13, 1864, at Warwick, 
Orange County, N. Y. His parents were George W. and Frances A. (Baird) San- 
ford. He obtained his early education at the public school, graduating in 1883, 
after which he took an agricultural course at Cornell. In 1889 he started in the 
insurance, real estate and brokerage business at Warwick. Mr. Sanford gives his 
personal attention to two farms, which are stocked with one hundred head of the 
finest cattle. 

He married Miss Bertha M. Furman, of Warwick, October 6, 1897. They have 
two children: Frances Isabel, born February 11, 1900, and Bertha Elizabeth, born 
January 29, 1905. In politics he is a republican, and is identified with the Old 
butch Reformed Church of Warwick. He is a director of the First National 
Bank, president of Warwick Cemetery Association, director of Warwick Valley 
Telephone Company, director and treasurer Warwick Inn. Company, director 
and treasurer Unionville Water Works Company, director of the Florida Water 
Works Company and trustee Warwick Savings Bank. 

WILLIAM MOORE SANFORD was born August 17, 1827. His parents were 
Ezra and Adaline (Terry) Sanford. He attended the district school in his local- 
ity, after which he attended a private school at Poultney, Vt., and college at Ann 
Arbor Mich. The subject of this sketch and his father were identified at Sand- 
fordville, Orange County, in the tanning business until 1880, when William M. 



BIOGRAIMIICAL. 935 

continued the business from that period until his death, which occurred August 
17, 1887. He was reared on the Sanford homestead, about two miles from War- 
wick. He married Sarah Burt in October, 1856. They had seven children : 
Charles, engaged in business in Warwick ; William, of New York ; Everett, re- 
siding at liome; Ezra, of New York; Mary, wife of Frank Durland, of Chester, 
X. Y. ; Addie, wife of William R. Welling, of Warwick, and Emily, wife of A. 
M. Reynolds, of Newark, N. J. Mr. Sanford is survived by one brother and two 
sisters. In politics he was a republican and served as superintendent of the poor 
at the time of his death. 

BENJAMIN B. SAYER was born March 11, 1859, on the homestead farm, 
near Warwick, N. Y., which has been in the family since 1768, and was purchased 
by Daniel Sayer, his great-grandfather, of Henry Wisner, who lived in the town 
of Goshen. He obtained his early education at the Warwick Institute and 
has always been identified with farming. He also operates a distillery on the farm, 
which was established in 1812. He married Miss Annie Waggoner, of Glenburnie, 
Ontario, Canada, March 15, 1893. Three children were born to this union : Helen 
Bennett, born December 18, 1893 ; Mary Eraser, born June 2, 1895, and Benjamin 
Wagoner, born December 9, 1896. In politics Mr. Sayer is independent. He is 
a member of Warwick Lodge, No. 544, E. and A. M., and the Warwick grange. 
The farm on which Mr. Sayer resides was the place first settled on by the War- 
wick pioneers. 

GEORGE S. SAYER. for many years a leading business man and farmer of 
Westtown, N. Y., was born in 181J, and died in 1884. .\s a young man he taught 
school a few years, and in 1836 went to Indiana, where he remained ten years. 
In 1852 he resumed farming, near Westtown, and in 1872 built a store and home 
in the village. He married Emeiino C. Evans and si.x children were bom, Jonathan 
.Sayer, now the postmaster at Westtown, being the second child. After hnisliing his 
schooling he assisted his father on the farm. 

He married Miss Sarah Owen and two sons were born: George O., a lawyer 
in New York, and Robert E., who resides at Westtown. In 1902 Mr. Sayer was ap- 
pointed postmaster, and the management of the farm, passed to his son, Robert E., 
wlio was bom in 1876, and educated at the schools of Hackettstown. He chose for 
his wife Miss Frances Horton. 

WILLIAM BENJAMIN SAYER. The S.iycr family is of English extraction 
and is mentioned as living at Poddington, England, in 1309. This is the line from 
which the Thomas Saver descended, whc came from Bedfordshire, England, to 
Lynn, Mass., and from whom the Sayers in this country are descended. He built 
the old Sayer smgio house in 1648 at Southampton, Long Island, New York, said 
to be the oldest English house standing in New York State. 

The Sayers came to Orange County in 1750. William Benjamin Sayer, a 
descendant of the above mentioned Sayers, now owns and occupies the stone house 



936 THE COUNTY OF ORAxXGE. 

situated on Main street, Warwick, N. Y., which was built by Francis Baird in 1766. 
It was called the Stone Tavern and was used as one until 1830. The mechanics who 
built this house came from New York City, and when completed it was considered 
the model house in this section. The most of the timbers are hewed oak with wide 
pine plank floors. This house has been in the Sayer family since 1858. Among the 
distinguished persons who stopped at the house are General George Washington 
and wife, and the room on the northwest corner on the second story is said to 
have been the room where they slept. Here are kept a number of old time relics to 
show to friends. The present owner, W. B. Saver, was born in this room, March 
14. 1866, and has always lived in the house with his sister, iNliss M. Eva Sayer. 

Rev. James Manning, a Baptist minister, and his wife, from Providence, R. I., 
took dinner here Sunday, September 12, 1779. He said in his diary: "We had an 
elegant dinner and were treated very hospitably by Francis Baird." 

Marquis De ChastelHux, major-general in the French army serving under Count 
Rochambeau, stayed all night here with his aides, December 6, 1781. He says: 
"I lodged at Warwick, at a very good inn kept by Mr. Smith, who rented of 
Francis Baird, and had every reason to be content with this establishment." 

Henry Pelton, a prominent local historian and grandfather of our surveyor of 
that name, when he first came here, in 1805, stayed his first night in Warwick 
in this house. A picture of this house will be found in this volume. 

THE SCHRADE CUTLERY COMPANY, of Waldcn, N. Y., is the youngest 
of the industries that have made that village the Sheffield of America. Estab- 
lished in a modest way April 19, 1904, by George and J. Louis Schrade, its 
growth has been very rapid and the value of their product now exceeds $100,000 
worth annually. The plant which the company erected is a substantial frame struc- 
ture, thirty by eighty-five feet, three stories in height, equipped with modern 
machinery and up-to-date methods of manufacture, employing about one hundred 
hands. One hundred different styles of pen and pocket knives are produced and 
the goods find a ready market all over the United States. The Schrade brothers are 
natives of Wlliamsport, Pa. George, the president of the company, has resided 
in Walden since 1894, and is the inventor, patentee and for ten years the sole 
manufacturer of the press button knife in connection with the Walden Knife 
Works. Mr. J. Louis Schrade came to Walden in 1904. He had previously been 
engaged in the manufacture of self-playing pianos in New York, Boston, London 
and Paris. Both brothers are members of the Masonic fraternitj'. 

CHRISTIAN H. SCHARFF was born at Amsterdam, Holland, February 26, 
1834. He came to America with his father, and the family settled in Newark, N. J. 
He was graduated from Princeton College in 1853., and studied law with Joseph P. 
Bradley (justice of supreme court). With James Buchanan, Henry formed the law 
partnership of Henry & Scharff, at No. 14 Wall street, New York City. Frances A. 
(Seward) Scharff was born at Florida, N. Y., April 16, 1836. She attended the 
Seward Institution at Florida and later the Grove Hall Seminarv for voung 



T5T0GRAPTIICAI,. 937 

ladies at New Haven, Conn. Slu- was united in marriage to Cliristian II. Seharff, 
January 27, 1859. 

R. ED. SCHOFIELD was born at Port Jervis, N. Y., December 10, 1853. Ills 
parents were James 11. and Marguerite Cole (Elston) Schofield. His early educa- 
tion was obtained at the public school and Port Jervis .-Kcademy. After his school- 
ing he read law in the office of Judge O. P. Howell, and was admitted to the bar 
in 1885. October, 1890, he entered into partnership with Judge O. P. Howell and 
Mr. Parshall, the firm being Howell, Parshall & Schofield, which continued until 
September, 1893, when Mr. Parshall withdrew from the firm. Mr. Schofield con- 
tinued with Judge Howell until January, 1896, and since that time has con- 
tinued alone. He married Miss Mary J. Finn, of Port Jervis, N. Y., January 28, 
1885. Their two children are James H. and Anna C, residing at home. In 
politics Mr. Schofield is a republican and has served the town in various offices. 
He has been clerk of the board of education for twenty-five years and is now presi- 
dent of the Co-Operative Loan and Savings Society. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. 

U. DEWITT .SCHOONMAKFR was born at Middletown. Orange County. 
N. Y. His early education was acquired at the Wallkill Academy, where he 
graduated in 1878. For two years he was engaged as traveling salesman, and one 
year in the merchandise business in Goshen, X. "S". Mr. Schoonmaker has not 
sought prominence in life, but has devoted himself entirely to his business. 
In 1882 he associated himself with the .Knglo-Swiss Condensed Milk Co., holding 
the position of bookkeeper for tliree years and assistant superintendent for seven- 
teen years. He has been identified with the Borden Condensed Milk Co. since 
IQ02, and for the past three years !ia.-. held tlie position of superintendent. April 
21. 1897, he married Miss Mary J. McXish, of Middletown, N. Y. He is a member 
of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and .A. M., .md served as foreman of Excelsior 
Hook and Ladder Company for three years. 

JOHN SCHOONMAKER. for nearly half a century the foremost dry goods 
merchant in Orange County, was born in the town of Gardiner, Ulster County, 
N. Y., January 25. 1830, and died at his home in Xewburgii. X. Y.. January 
I, 1904. 

The Schoomnaker family is one of the oldest in tliis section of New York State. 
The progenitor of the family in .America was Hendrick Jochemsen Schoonmaker, 
who came to America in 1654. in the military service of the Dutch West India 
Company. '1 he records show he loaned money to Governor Stuyvesant "in time 
of need," and was active in the military duties made necessary by the troublous 
times. His grandson. Captain Frederick Schoonmaker. was one of the patriots 
and soldiers of the Revolution, who gave himself and his property to his country 
in its struggle for freedom from the Briti.sh yoke. 

John A. Schoonm.-.'-er. father of the subject of tiiis sketch, was a son of Major 



938 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Abraham Schoonmaker of Revolutionary fame (Fourth Regiment, Ulster County 
Militia). He married Rachel, eldest daughter of Gustavis and Maria (Terwilliger) 
Sammons. Ten children were born to them, of whom John was the tenth 
in order of birth. He was educated at Amenia Seminary, Dutchess County. 
He began work upon his father's farm and continued until he was twenty-two, 
teaching school at Gardiner for the last winter that he remained at home. In 
March, 1852, with his brother Jacob, he opened a general store at Tuttletown. 
Soon afterward his brother lost his life in the Henry Clay disaster on the Hudson, 
and in a short time the Tuttletown store was sold, Mr. Schoonmaker moving to 
Newburgh in the fall of 1853. His first employment was with Stephen Hayt, on 
Water street, for his board. In three months he took a clerkship with Isaac Wood, 
Jr., fcr three years, after which he had a position for a year with Mr. Parmalee, 
and again returned to the store of Isaac Wood, Jr., where, under Mr. Wood's guid- 
ance, he received and acquired experience that was invaluable to him in later 
years. 

In 1863 Mr. Schoonmaker, with Samuel C. Mills and A. Y. Weiler, purchased the 
dry goods business of Colonel Wood, at the northeast corner of Water and Third 
streets. They conducted business under the firm name of Schoonmaker, Mills & 
Weiler. Half a dozen lines of boats between New York and Newburgh and market 
wagons from the surrounding country made Newburgh an active business center, 
where stores were open as early as five o'clock in the morning and frequently as 
late as eleven o'clock at night. In 1878 the firm occupied its newly completed 
building at Nos. 94 and 96 Water street. This was considered a notable improve- 
ment and the firm even then had the largest dry goods store in the city. Although 
at first only part of the building was occupied, in a few years increased business 
made it necessary to occupy the whole. Mr. Mills retired in 1885 and Mr. Weiler 
January i, 1898. Mr. Schoonmaker's son. .Samuel V., purchased Mr. Weller's in- 
terest and the firm became John Schoonmaker & Son. 

Now the firm purchased the adjoining building on the north, still further increas- 
ing its capacity for business. Mr. Schoonmaker took an active interest in the 
affairs of the firm until his sudden illness in the latter part of 1902, and after a 
protracted period of hope and fear he died on January i, 1904, at his home, 135 
Grand street. He had thus been for many years the head of Newburgh's 
dry goods trade. His business acquaintance was very extensive and few 
men enjoyed such a reputation for honor, integrity and probity, his friends and 
acquaintances placing implicit confidence in him, which, throughout his career, was 
never violated. He was a public spirited citizen, always interested in the welfare 
and progress of Newburgh and contributed generously to projects which promised 
well for its advancement, yet he never sought public ofiice or cared to appear 
prominently in public. His increasing business prevented him from entering 
politics, although he was a member of the board of health from 1885 to 1888, in 
which he rendered conscientious service. He was one of the organizers of the old 
Newburgh board of trade, and of its successor, the Newburgh Business Men's As- 
sociation, of which his son was president. He earnestly aided by counsel and purse 



BIOGRAl'lIICAL. 



939 



in the building of the Palatine Hotel. ]-"or thirty-seven years he was a trustee of 
the Newburgh Savings Bank and for a number of years its second vice-president. 
He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, in which he was active and 
efficient, serving for many terms as trustee and elder. He was also deeply in- 
terested in Bethel Mission and chapel, serving as superintendent of the chapel 
while health permitted. He was a member of the Holland Society of New York 
from 1890 until the time of his death. He w-as married July 2, 1862, to !Mary A. 
Vail. The children of this marriage, Samuel V. Schoonmaker, Mrs. W. Clement 
Scott and Miss Elizabeth M. Schoonmaker, are all residents of Newburgh. 

THEODORE D. SCHOONMAKER was born in the town of Crawford, in the 
County of Orange, on the 28th day of December, 18.36. He was the only son of 
Levi Schoonmaker and Julia Ann, his wife. Levi was a son of Edward Schoon- 
maker and Leah Rose, his wife, both of the town of Shawangunk, Ulster County, 
N. Y. Julia Ann was the daughter of Samuel Butler and Sarah, his wife, both of 
the town of Goshen, Orange County, N. Y. 

The subject of this sketch received a common school and academic education, 
taught school in the counties of Chemung, Ulster and Orange for several years, 
w^as brought up a farmer, which occupation he followed till January i, 1868, when 
he was appointed by the then surrogate, Honorable Gilbert O. Hulse, his brother- 
in-law. clerk of the surrogate's court of the county 01 Orange, which position he 
has occupied ever since continuous)}', being appointed by the successive surrogates 
to that office. He was stenographer to the surrogate's court from 1870 till the 
year 190.3, and was also for several years assistant stenographer for the second 
judicial district of this state, and also served as county court stenographer under 
County Judges Honorables Stephen W. FuUerton and Charles F. Brown, and also 
stenographer to the Dutchess County court under Honorables Henry M. Taylor 
and B. Piatt Carpenter. In 1889 he was elected one of the trustees of the village 
of Goshen, after a bitter and arduous campaign, to which office he has been re- 
elected for six terms of two years each, without any opposition, and is now one 
of such trustees. 

He has four children living, two having died in infancy: Anna Frances, wife of 
Thomas Mould, of the firm of Thompson & Mould; Theodore F., of Hartford, 
Conn., traveling salesman ; Mary Adele, at home, and Charles B., civil and con- 
struction engineer. 

ANDREW SCHRIVER, residing on a farm near Chester, N. Y., was born De- 
cember 16, 1840, at Lagrange. Dutchess County, N. Y. His early education was 
obtained at the Unionville .Seminary. He joined Company A, One Hundred and 
Forty-fourth New York Volunteers, and served in the Civil War for three years, 
after which he joined the New York conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
and actively followed the ministry for thirty-seven years, and for six years was 
presiding elder of the Newburgh district. Mr. Schriver is now retired and resides 
on the Oak Lane farm of one hundred and forty acres, near Chester, N. Y. He 



940 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

makes a specialty of breeding and exhibiting Hampshire sheep, Guernsey cattle and 
fancy poultry. He married Alida Wiltsie, of Albany County, April 24, 1877. 
Their five children are : Hiram W., Newman E.. Paul R., Charlotte and Frank. 
Mr. Schrivcr is a republican and takes an active interest in politics. He is one of 
the managers of the Orange County Agricultural Society. 

FRANK A. SCOTT, architect and builder, of Newburgh, was born here July 
18, 1830, a son of John and Jane (Gedney) Scott. The Gedney family is of French- 
Huguenot origin. David Gedney came from France and located in Newburgh in 
1754. Mr. Scott attended the old Glebe School, of which some years ago he made a 
very accurate drawing from memory. At the age of seventeen he went to New 
York City to learn the builders' trade and study architecture. In 1863 Mr. Scott 
went west and was engaged in business in Montana, Colorado and Missouri. Since 
1872 he has made his home in his native city and has erected many buildings in the 
Hudson Valley. In 1852 he married Miss Mary Banks, of Ulster County. They 
have two daughters : Elsie Banks and Anna Gedney. In 1894 Mr. Scott received 
from Mayor Odell the appointment of excise commissioner and served as presi- 
dent of the board. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and trustee of the 
Unitarian Church. 

W. CLEMENT SCOTT, secretary and treasurer of the Newburgh Planing Mill, 
was born in Newburgh in 1869, and is a son of the late Hon. David A. Scott. 
His education was obtained at Newburgh Academy and Yale College, from which 
he graduated with the degree of A.B. in 1893. He has been connected with the 
above firm since 1899 and is identified with local social organizations. In 189^ he 
married Miss Mary L., daughter of John Schoonmaker. Two children have been 
born to them : Elizabeth M. and William C, Jr. 

FRANK H. SCUDDER, treasurer of Middletown, was born November 19, 1871, 
in Otisville, Orange County, and graduated from the Otisville public school. 
He learned telegraphy and was operator for the Erie Railroad from 1888 to 1892, 
and for the Ontario & Western Railroad from the last date to 1900. He was then 
transferred to the traffic department of the Ontario & Western as assistant to 
the traveling freight agent, which position he still holds. He was elected city treas- 
urer of Middletown in 1904. and his third term in this office expired January i, 
igoS. He is a member of the Concordia Council, Royal Arcanum, and also of the 
Monhagen Hose Company. Politically he is a republican. He married Miss Eliza- 
beth E. Scott, of Jersey City, N. J., October t2, 1904, and both are members of the 
First Presbyterian Church of Middletown 

HENRY SEACORD, republican, who represents the first assembly district of 
Orange County in the assembly, was born September 19, 1829, at Lincolndale (for- 
merly known as St. David's Corners, or Decker's Mills), and has resided there since. 
The Seacord family are direct descendants of the French Huguenots that fled 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 941 

from Roche], France, in the year i6!Sj, went to England, and from there to America 
in 1684, and Amroise Sicard, a French Protestant refugee, of La Rochelle, France, 
who fled to England in 1682, and from there came to America in 1684, locating at 
New Rochelle, Westchester County, and in the year 1692, on February 9, bought 
from William La Count land en which is now the city of New Rochelle. Mr. 
Scacord's father represented Orange County in the assembly in 1846, as a free soil 
democrat, but when the republican party was organized he came out as a republi- 
can and wai made chairman of the mass meeting and appointed the committee 
which organized the party in the county. 

At an early age Mr. Seacord entered his father's blacksmith shop, to learn the 
trade, which he followed until the year 1891. when he left the forge and engaged 
in the real estate and insurance business, which he still follows. 

He was present and took part in the organization of the republican party in 
Orange County in the year 1855, and has taken an active part in its councils ever 
since. He has attended many of the state, county and district conventions, and 
was acquainted with Horace Greeley, Roscoe Conkling, President Arthur and many 
others of their time. 

He was elected to represent his town in the board of supervisors in 1S76, being 
the first republican supervisor elected from the town of Hamptonburgh. In the 
fall of 1876 the town gave a democratic majority of sixty-seven out of a total vote 
of two hundred and ninety-five. 

He was elected to the assembly in 1907, receiving 5,625 votes, while his democratic 
opponent received 4,871. 

Speaker Wadsworth, in 1908, appointed ^Ir. Seacord a member of the assembly 
committees on insurance and agriculture. 

WILLL\M H. SEACORD was born at Lincolndale, Orange County. X. Y 
formerly known as Decker's. July 17, i860. After leaving the district school he 
learned blacksmithing, and when twenty-one years old engaged in business for him- 
self. 

He married Charlotte E. Crans, May 31, 1883. Their children are: Barbara A., 
Andrew W., H. Stanley, Charlotte C. and Ralph P.. Barbara is a teacher in the 
Lincolndale school, and Andrew is taking a course in mechanical engineering at 
Cornell University. Mr. Seacord. beside? his general blacksmithing business, con- 
ducts a carriage repository. He is a member of Hamptonburgh Grange No. 950. 

BENJAMIN CHANDLER SEARS was born in Montgomery. February. 1S36, 
where his father, Marcus Sears. M. D., then resided. His grandfather. Benjamin 
Sears, was appointed sheriflF of Ulster County by Governor George Clinton, Febru- 
ary, 1793. His mother was a daughter of Richard Caldwell, captain of the Twenty- 
fifth LTnitcd States Infantry, who, on the march to the Canadian frontier, died from 
exposure, and was buried at Champl.-iin, N. Y., in 1812. Dr. Sears soon removed 
to Blooming Grove, and Benjamin C. attended the public school there. Chester 
Academy and Montgomery .\cadcmy, under Joseph M Wilkin. He entered the 



942 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

junior class of Rutgers College and graduated in 1857 with the Suydam prize for 
English composition, and the degree of A. B., receiving later the degree of A. M. ; 
was a charter member of the Zeta Psi Club of New York and trustee of the 
chapter house of the 2tp fraternity at Rutgers. 

On graduating he came to the farm upon which he now resides, which was pur- 
chased by his great-grandfather, John Chandler, in 1793, containing about forty 
acres, which, by purchase, he has increased to four hundred acres. In carrying on 
the farm, he is associated with James B. Howell and his son, Marcus Caldwell 
Sears, who graduated from Rutgers in the class of '91 with first honor, taking 
also a special course in agriculture. The firm kept a dairy of one hundred or more 
cows, the milk from which is largely bottled on the farm, and until March, 1906, 
was delivered directly to consumers from the Blooming Grove Ayrshire Dairy, 445 
West Nineteenth street, New York City, but now is distributed by others. 

In 1866 l}e married Phoebe E., daughter of Edmund S. Howell, of Blooming 
Grove. In 1878 he was democratic candidate for state senator. A year later he was 
appointed on the commission to appraise damages to property in building the West 
Shore and Ontario & Western Railroads. For five j^ears he was superintendent of 
the farm attached to Rutgers, the State Agricultural College of New Jersey, and 
associate lecturer on farming. For several years he was vice-president of the Ayr- 
shire Breeders' Association. He was director of the Orange County Agricultural 
Society from 1877 to 1899, and vice-president from 1889 to 1901. He was an elder 
in the Second Presbyterian Church of Washingtonville, until it was dissolved, and 
since then has been deacon in the Blooming Grove Congregational Church. 

HON. ALBERT H. F. SEEGER, county judge of Orange County, N. Y., was 
born in the city of Stuttgart, Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1859. His parents came 
to America in 1861, settling in Goshen, N. Y. In 1867 the family moved to New- 
burgh, and it was here the subject of this sketch obtained his education and has 
since resided. After graduating from the academy in 1875, he read law in the 
office of Judge Dickey, and was admitted to the bar in 1880. 

Judge Seeger is a tireless worker and has built up a very extensive and lucra- 
tive practice. For a number of years he was assistant district attorney, and in 1903 
was elected district attorney. In 1906 he was elected to the office of county judge. 

GEORGE SEELY was born March 27, 1837. His parents were Edward and 
Julia Ann (Satterly) Seely. Mr. Seely attained his education at the district 
school and Old Chester Academy. He now occupies the homestead in which his 
grandfather and great-grandfather lived. The house is now over one hundred 
and fifty years old. George Seely was united in marriage to Miss Helen M. But- 
ler, of Rochester, N. Y., September 17, 1868. Their one child, Gaylord B., was 
born March 3, 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Seely are members of the Chester Presbyterian 
Church and Mr. Seely is a member of the Chester Grange No. 984. In politics he 
is a republican and has served the town in various offices. His wife is a member 
of the board of managers of the Home for Aged Women of Middletotwn, N. Y. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 943 

HOWARD DAVIS SEELV, wlio resides near Chester, was born January 27, 
1878. He received his early education at the Chester Academy, afterward attend- 
ing for two years the Military Academy at Cornwall-on-Hudson, graduating in 
1898. His father, Fred B. Seely, died in July, 1891. He was a man of sterling 
worth in the community. Howard assumed control of the farm after his father's 
death, which is located about two miles from Chester. He is a large breeder of 
Holstein-Fresian cattle, has exhibited his stock on several occasions at the Orange 
County Fair at Middletown, and secured first premium. The foundation of this 
stock was purchased of H. D. Roe, of Augusta, N. J. Mr. Roe has raised more 
world's champion stock than any one breeder in this part of the country. Mr. 
Seely married Miss Carrie A. Mills, daughter of George Mills, of Goshen, N. Y. 
They have one child, Pauline Augusta. He is a member of the Chester Grange, a 
republican and takes a lively interest in all questions of the day. 

JOHN LANSING SERVIN.— Mr. Servin, who spent the last years of his life 
in Warwick, was born in Spring Valley, Rockland County, on September 6, 1835. 
After a course of study at Rutgers College, he was graduated from the University 
of the City of New York in 1858. He then commenced the study of law, and after 
obtaining his degree at the Albany Law School, and being connected for a time 
with the law firm of Hill, Cagger and Porter in Albany, removed to New York 
City, where he practiced his profession until 1865. He married Miss Sallie Ann 
Forsher, of Warwick, in 1864, and in 1865 removed to Warwick, where he pur- 
chased the IVanifick Advertiser, which he conducted for some years, when ill health 
forced him to give up all active pursuits. 

He was one of the founders of the Y. M. C. A. at Warwick and superintendent 
of the Sunday-school of the Reformed Dutch Church, and withal a liberal, well- 
educated and public-spirited citizen. 

He died at Warwick, on October 8, i88r, and is survived by three children : 
Abraham Forshee, who is a practicing lawyer of Middletown, N. Y. ; Sara, wife 
of Dr. Stephen W. Perry, of Belchertown, Mass. ; and John Magie, of Warwick. 
A younger child, Walter Tinkey, died at an early age. His widow still resides at 
Warwick in the family home. 

FREDERICK W. SEW.\RD, M.D., a worthy member of a greatly honored 
family, was born in (ioshen, .\ugust 22, 1845. He prepared for college in the 
Seward Institute, founded and endowed by his grandfather, Judge S. S. Seward. 
He graduated at Union College, and studied medicine in Bellevue Medical College 
and the New York Homeopathic Medical College. He then settled in Middletown, 
where he had an extensive practice, but on account of failing health went to New 
Mexico in 1876. Returning in 1882, he made Goshen his home and engaged in 
general practice until 1899, when he became a specialist in nervous and mental dis- 
eases, and opened "Interpines," a sanatorium for the cure of these diseases. He 
has long been president of the Orange County Homeopathic Society, and is a mem- 
ber of the New York State Homcopatiiic Society and the .Xmerican Institute of 



944 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Homeopathy; also the Orange County and New York State Medical Societies and 
of the National Medical Association. He is president of the Goshen Board of 
Trade and for years was president of the Goshen Board of Education. He is also 
a Mason. He was married to Ella Armstrong, of Florida, Orange County, De- 
cember 27, 1866. She died three years later, leaving two children. Dr. Seward 
again married in 1875, his second wife being Matie Corey, of Plainfield, N. J., by 
whom he has three children. His three daughters, Ella, Matie and Bertha, are at 
home. His eldest son, Edwin P., is a ranchman in New Mexico, and Frederick 
W., Jr., a graduate of the New York Medical College, is associated with his father 
at the "Interpines." Dr. Seward's father was Edwin Pollodore Seward, of Flor- 
ida, and his uncle was William H. Seward, Lincoln's secretary of state, and before 
the war United States senator. Dr. Seward's great-great-grandfather was John 
Seward, a colonel in the New Jersey militia during the Revolutionary war. 

JOHN L. SEYBOLT, of the town of Mt. Hope, was born July 28, 1854, on the 
homestead farm, about one-half mile from Otisvillc. He was reared on the home 
farm and acquired his early education at the district school, afterward attending . 
the Otisville school. His principal business is dairying, having one hundred and 
seventy-one acres of land. His parents were Paul Lee, born August 18, 1830, died 
July 8, 1905, and Antoinette, born July 4, 1831, still living. To this union four chil- 
dren were born: John, the subject of this sketch; Horace G., of New York City, 
engaged in the milk business ; Alva, a prominent attorney at Oneonta, Otsego 
County, N. Y., and Emma, wife of J. C. Jordon, of Middletown, N. Y. Mr. Sey- 
bolt married Miss Alice W. Riter, of Otisville, N. Y., December 18, 1878. She was 
born Jun£ 13, 1858. Two children were born to this union : Violet, wife of George 
Kaufman, of Middletown, and Falter Lee, attending school at Middletown. In 
politics Mr. Seybolt is a democrat and has served six years as road commissioner. 
As a farmer he is very successful and for many years has been a member of the 
Otisville Grange. 

REV. JESSE F. SHAFER, an old and honored resident of Newburgh, was born 
at Montgomery, Orange County, October 12, 1828. He graduated from Montgom- 
ery Academy in 1848, read law with Hon. Hugh B. Bull and attended the State and 
National Law School at Ballston Spa, N. Y. He was admitted to the bar in 1852, 
and practiced in Goshen and Newburgh until 1857, when he formed a partnership 
with his brother, Joseph D., district attorney of Ulster County, with offices in 
Kingston. In 1861 he enlisted in the 56th New York Volunteer Infantry, was pro- 
moted to first lieutenant and regimental quartermaster, resigning in 1864. From 
1869 to 1873 Mr. Shafer owned and operated the Youngblood farm. In 1874 he 
decided to prepare for the ministry, and was ordained in 1877. He was pastor of 
the Presbyterian Church at Audenried, Pa., five years. The failure of his voice 
caused his retirement. Mr. Shafer is chaplain of Ellis Post No. 52, G. A. R. ; also 
of the 56th Regiment Veteran Association. In 1869 he married Miss Ann H. Craw- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 945 

ford, of Thompson's Ridge, Orange County. She died June lo, 1891, leaving one 
daughter, Susie C, tlie wife of Walter Carvey. 

WILLLA^M H. SH.A.XXOX, prominent in business and public affairs at New- 
burgh, N. Y., was born in Richmond, Xorth Hampton County, Penn., April 22y 
1840. His parents, Charles Shannon, a carpenter, and Magdalen Gruver Shannon, 
were also natives of Richmond. He is a descendant from Nathaniel Shannon, who 
was born in Londonderry, Ireland, in 1655 of Scottish ancestry. Nathaniel came 
to America in 1687 as naval officer of the port of Boston, where he was a member 
of the historic Old South Church. He served as naval officer of the port for 
twenty-two years. From him sprang the various branches of the family. Some 
of his descendants became pioneers in the South; one accompanied the Lewis and 
Clarke Expedition. William H. Shannon's grandfather, Langdon Shannon, was 
a major in the War of 1812. 

Mr. Shannon received his education m the little log schoolhouse of Richmond ; 
that is, as much education as a lad can acquire up to the early age of thirteen, when 
he went to work. He came to Xewburgh in 1862 to take charge of the slating of 
Vassar College for the late John Gait. He started in business the same year and 
in 1877 became associated with Mr. Gait, who was interested in the firm of Shan- 
non & Co., until his death. Mr. Shannon then took his son, William H., Jr., into 
partnership. To the originally modest slate-roofing business new branches were 
added from time to time until to-day an extensive business is carried on — slate, tile 
and metal roofing mantels, fireplaces marble and tiling. 

Mr. Shannon is a member of the Masonic Veterans' Association, having been 
raised in 1866. He is also a charter member of the Washington Heights Chemical 
Engine Co. He has been a painstaking an.d efficient member of the Water Board 
for fifteen years, three of which lie served as president. 

THE SHAW FA^HLY. — Tlie Shaw family was among the early settlers in the 
northeastern part of the town, and until within a few years the original tract Of 
land settled upon them was in the name of some of the family. About 1750 Wil- 
liam Shaw moved to the town and was agent for a large tract of land owned by 
New York parties, with instructions to take what he wanted, sell what he could 
and give some away. The descendants of some of his friends to whom he gave 
farms are living in Orange County. Soon after he came from Ireland and had 
made a clearing, he sent for his intended wife (Mary Waldron). She came 
from New York to New Windsor on a sloop and was met by him and taken 
to his home on horseback, for at that time it was the only way he could 
travel between the two points. They had children and many of their de- 
scendants are still in that vicinity, among them being Wickham T. Shaw, a great- 
grandson, practicing law at Middletown, X. Y. William Shaw, who married Rachel 
Schoonoven, son of William and Mary W. Shaw, inherited the homestead and 
died there. Two of his sons, Aaron and Howard, became quite distinguished. The 
former was state attorney, judge of the Supreme Court and twice elected to Con- 



946 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

gress in Illinois. The latter (Howard), who married Abby M. Tryon, was a noted 
auctioneer, and Wickham T. Shaw, his son, who married Clara A. Mapes, is the 
last male descendant in that line living. He has three sons, Howard, Charles and 
H. James Aaron, and one daughter, Florence. 

HARRY E. SHAW, of Newburgh, member of the Board of Supervisors, was 
born in this city in 1869. His father, the late Captain George W. Shaw, was for 
years a leading business man of Newburgh, a member of the widely known firm of 
Thomas Shaw's Sons. Harry E. was educated at the Newburgh Academy and 
Siglar's Preparatory School, after which he entered the planing mill business of 
his father. He subsequently engaged in the feed business, being senior member of 
the firm of Shaw Brothers. 

Politically Mr. Shaw is a democrat and in 1907 was elected supervisor of the 
Second Ward. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the Elks, Ringgold 
Hose Company and the City Club. 

SAMUEL E. SHIPP, son of Colonel Samuel Shipp, was born in 1850 at Pleas- 
ant Ridge, Princess Ann County, Virginia. He was educated at Columbian Col- 
lege, Washington, D. C. Mr. Shipp was deputy state treasurer of Virginia sev- 
eral years, and for ten years connected with the post-office in Richmond and Nor- 
folk. He came to Newburgh and organized the present real estate and insurance 
firm of Shipp & Osborn in 1888, associating himself with Mr. David A. Osborn. 
This business had been established in 1873 by E. S. Turner. Mr. Shipp is also 
president of the Shipp & Osborn Realty Company. In 1900 he was appointed by 
the governor of New York State a member of the Board of Managers of the Mid- 
dletown State Hospital and served four years as president of the board. He was 
elected in 1898 a member of the Board of Education of Newburgh and has been 
president of the board six years. Mr. Shipp is prominent in club, social and busi- 
ness circles. He is a member of Hudson River Lodge, a Knight Templar and was 
one of the organizers of the Wilbur H. Weston Shriner Association and has been 
its vice-president and president. He is a charter member and director of the 
Newburgh City Club and for many years a member of the Powelton (Country) 
Club. Mr. Shipp has always taken an active part in all matters pertaining to the 
growth and prosperity of his home city. 

HON. MORGAN SHUIT, who for more than a quarter of a century was a 
prominent figure in political and business affairs of Orange County, was born in 
Richfield, Conn., 1812, and died at Central Valley, July 29, 1884. Mr. Shuit was 
engaged in mercantile pursuits until 1864, when he purchased large tracts of land 
and devoted his time to the management of his farms. He was a leader in repub- 
lican politics and for thirty-one years represented the old town of Monroe in the 
Board of Supervisors. He also filled the office of justice of the peace for thirty- 
three years. In 1879 he was elected a member of the state legislature and re- 
elected in 1880. He was chosen executor for many estates because/ of the confi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 947 

dence reposed in him by his fellow citizens. In 1846 Mr. Shuit married Mary A. 
Titus and seven children were born to them. Mrs. Shuit died and in 1870 he chose 
her sister, Phebe B. Titus, for his second wife. 

CHARLES N. SKINNER, M.D., of Port Jcrvis, was born in that city, March 
9, 1866. He obtained his education in the schools of that place and Wyoming 
Seminary, Kingston, Pa. When twenty-two years of age he took up the study of 
medicine in the office of Dr. W. L. Cuddeback and completed his medical studies 
by a course of lectures at Bellevue, New York, from which he was graduated in 
1892. He at once began the practice of medicine in Port Jervis. He is a member 
of the Orange County Medical Society. Dr. Skinner married Mary B. Hiller, of 
Tunkhannock, Pa., June 9, 1892, and both he and Mrs. Skinner are consistent mem- 
bers of the Reformed Church of Port Jervis. 

FRANK SLAUGHTER was born near Pine Island, N. Y., February 23, 1854, 
attended college at Elmira N. Y., and assisted his grandfather on the farm until 
he was thirty-two years old. He has since been a dairy farmer and an extensive 
fruit grower. He has a farm of eighty acres, and apart from this is engaged with 
the Empire Steel Company of Catasauqua, Penn., in the limestone business. He 
married Annie Louise Wilson, of Brooklyn, N. Y., December 16, 1885. Their six 
children are Charles B., born September 20, 1886; Clara Van Sickle, born April 6, 
1888, wife of Grant Cooper, of Pine Island; Fannie Louise, born April 5, 1891, 
wife of Russell S. Ferguson, of New Milford; Jerry, born April 20, 1893; Lu 
Wilcox, born December 28, 1898, and Audrey Wilson, born January i, 1902. Mr. 
Slaughter attends the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a republican. 

NORMAN C. SLY was a New York City policeman more than twenty years, 
being appointed on the force May 8, 1882, and serving until September 16, 1902. 
He is now a practical farmer and good citizen who interests himself in the public 
welfare as well as his private interests. He was born June 22, 1858, and was one 
of the four children of Ross W. and Marguerite E. Wilcox Sly. His early educa- 
tion was in the district school. 

CLARENCE J. SLOCUM, M.D., resident physician of Falkirk Sanitarium, near 
Central Valley, graduated from the Albany Medical College in 1897. The fol- 
lowing three years he was connected with the City Hospital at Poughkeepsie and 
from 1900 to 1902 with the Utica State Hospital. His services were then secured 
by Dr. Carlos MacDonald as resident physician of his sanitarium, then located at 
Pleasantville. In 1906 the institution was removed to Orange County. Dr. Slo- 
cum is a member of the American Psychological Association and the Dutchess 
County Medical Society. 

CHARLES H. SMITH was born at Howells, Orange County, N. Y., in 1861. 
After graduating from the Wallkill Academy he took up civil engineering and 



948 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

spent two years in practical work under Chief Engineer O. Chanute, of the Erie 
R. R. He then entered Lehigh University, and for two years was a student in 
the department of civil engineering. Later he was engineer on the Erie R. R. 
Mr. Smith married Miss Minnie A. Holland, of Hornell, N. Y., in 1890. In 1889 
he was appointed assistant chief engineer of the New York, Ontario and Western 
R. R., with headquarters at Middletown, which position he filled for three years. 
He resigned in 1893 and devoted his attention entirely to civil engineering. The 
following year he opened an oiifice in Middletown and was appointed city engineer, 
in which capacity he served ten years, at which time he was appointed county en- 
gineer, which position he is now holding. He is a member of the American Soci- 
ety of Civil Engineers and an honorary member of the Excelsior Hook and Lad- 
der Co. 



ELWOOD C. SMITH, attorney, of Newburgh, was born in Monroe, N. Y., Feb- 
ruary 12, 1882. He graduated from the Newburgh Academy in 1900 and from 
Columbia University in 1904 with the degree of LL.B. He practiced his profession 
three years in New York City, and in January, 1907, began the practice of law in 
Orange County, with offices in Newburgh and Monroe. Mr. Smith was elected 
justice of the peace of the latter town in 1906. He is a member of the Delta Up- 
silon Fraternity; Greenwood Council No. 140, Junior Order American Mechanics; 
Standard Lodge No. 711, F. & A. M. ; Highland Chapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; Hud- 
son River Commandery No. 35, K. T., and Mecca Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. 

GEORGE SMITH, one of the enterprising citizens of Otisville, was born in 
the town of Mt. Hope, February 8, 1835, being sixth in order of birth in his parents' 
family. He remained at home until he was sixteen, when he learned the carpen- 
ters' trade. He clerked in a general store at Otisville for a period of two years, 
when he embarked in business for himself, forming a partnership with Mr. Dun- 
ning. The firm was afterward Reed & Smith. Later Mr. Smith purchased his 
partner's interest and continued alone for five years, when he again sold to Mr. 
Reed a half interest. Mr. Smith is now living retired. He married Miss Cynthia 
Green, of Otisville. In politics he is a democrat and has served the town as super- 
visor for seventeen years and as town clerk eight years. 



NATHAN S. SMITH. — Among the old business landmarks in Water street, 
Newburgh, is the book and stationery store of Mr. Smith, which was established 
in 1830. It is the oldest bookstore in the Hudson Valley and was purchased by 
Mr. Daniel Smith in 1840. He was a native of Connecticut, and after locating in 
Newburgh was engaged for a time in the shoe business. Mr. N. S. Smith has been 
proprietor of this store since 1882. Mr. Smith was born in Newburgh and for 
many years has been prominent in the commercial and social circles of his native 
city. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 949 

WILLIAM J. SMITH, who is engaged in general farming and dairying on a 
historic tract of land in the town of Hamptonburgh, was born January 21, 1851, 
on the homestead farm about one mile from Xeclytown. His father was Foster 
and his mother Sarah W. (Waite) Smith. He was married to Miss Lizzie 
Burns, of Newburgh, December 7, 1876. Two children were born by this 
union: Frank W., who married the daughter of John Maryhue, of Ulster 
County, N. Y., and Nellie, who resides at home. He is a consistent mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church of Montgomery. In politics he is a democrat. 
The home in which Mr. Smith resides is historic from the fact that Washington 
stopped here on one occasion in crossing from the Delaware River to his head- 
quarters at Newburgh. Recently it was necessary to make repairs in the old chim- 
ney and a brick with the date 1777 was taken from the fireplace. 

JACOB B. STANABACK.— His birthplace was Sparta, Sussex County, N. J., 
where he began life November 10, 1861, and attended the district school. He 
worked awliile in a creamery in Stanford, Delaware County, N. Y., and then was 
a clerk in Sparta and Ogdensburgh. All this was before he was of age. When 
he was twenty-one he went to Newfoundland, Morris County, N. J., and was 
there clerk in a general store. His next move was to Florida, Orange County, 
where he worked for H. B. Seeley, and his next to Newark, N. J., where in 1888 
he went into business for himself. In i8q7 he went to New Milford, Orange 
County, and worked for his cousin, Benjamin Scott, until he was burned out on 
March 22, 1900. Then Mr. Stanaback erected a store on the location of the old 
store and renewed business. 

He was appointed postmaster in 1900 and still holds the office. He is now erect- 
ing a brick building for store and residence to have steam heat and other latest 
improvements. In connection with his general mercantile business he sells the 
Osborn farm implements. He belongs to Wawayanda Lodge No. 34, I. O. O. F., 
at Warwick and Encampment of Mt. Olive Lodge No. 65, of Newburgh, N. Y. 

JOSEPH F. STEVENS, the efficient postmaster of Highland Falls, N. Y., re- 
ceived this appointment in 1901. He was born in this village in 1864, and educated 
at schools in Pennsylvania and Manhattan College, X. Y. Previous to his pres- 
ent office he was engaged in the hotel business at Highland Falls, which was estab- 
lished by his father, George Stephens, who built the hotel in 1864. He has held the 
office of school trustee six years. 

Mr. Stevens married Miss Lucctta Faurot, daughter of Captain Theodore 
Faurot, a descendant of one of the oldest families in the town of Highland. 

L. S. STERRIT, son of Thomas and Jane Stcrrit, was of Scotch-English ex- 
traction. His parents emigrated to this country shortly after their marriage and 
established a home beside the old Presbyterian Church at Coldcnham, where the 
subject of this sketch was born February 17, 1852. 

His general education was gained at the Newburgh Academy and the Collegiate 



950 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Institute at Newton, N. J. He commenced his legal studies at Newburgh in the 
office of George H. Clark, leaving this office to enter that of Judge James W. Tay- 
lor, April 3, 1873. He was admitted to the bar in 1876, and continued to occupy 
the position of managing clerk for Judge Taylor, and upon the latter's death in 
1883 succeeded to his practice. At the time of his death, which occurred April 4, 
1907, he had occupied the same suite of offices in the Savings Bank Building for 
a period of thirty-five consecutive years. 

Mr. Sterrit's practice was almost exclusively confined to equity and probate 
work, in which he was an acknowledged expert. He conducted some of the most 
important equity cases of recent years, and was employed in the settlement of 
many large estates. His practice of his profession was marked by untiring in- 
dustry and strict integrity. He was an eloquent speaker and a graceful writer, the 
productions of his pen relating chiefly to local historical subjects, on which he was 
an acknowledged authority. 

Mr. Sterritt was past master of Hudson River Lodge, F. & A. M., and delivered 
the oration at the celebration of its twenty-fifth anniversary. For fifteen years 
he served as trustee and secretary of the Glebe, and was a trustee of the Wood- 
lawn Cemetery Association for the same length of time. As a safe and trusted 
counselor he was honored by his fellow practitioners at the bar; as a generous, 
public spirited citizen he was held in high regard by those among whom he lived, 
but as a noble-hearted friend, void of selfishness and without guile, he was loved 
by those who knew him best. This, in his life, served to bring him his most cher- 
ished reward, and, in his death, will prove his most enduring monument. 



DANIEL JACKSON STEWARD was the great-grandson of John Steward 1st, 
who settled in Goshen in 1744, and the son of John Steward 3rd, who, born in 
Goshen, subsequently moved to New York, where he was for forty years engaged 
in the business of a wholesale drygoods merchant, acquiring a fortune and distin- 
guished by a reputation for unswerving integrity and uprightness of character. 

Daniel Jackson Steward, the subject of this sketch, was the second son of John 
Steward 3rd, of Goshen, and was born in 1816. He was descended, through his 
maternal ancestor, Isaac Townsend, of Oyster Bay, L. I., from Capt. John Un- 
derbill, the famous fighter of Indians. Though born in New York, Mr. Steward 
always felt himself to be by inheritance and affection a son of Orange County. 

He was a graduate of Princeton and a man of great mental powers and wide 
learning, equally interested in science and art, a combination of tastes rarely found 
in the same individual. He was never engaged in active business, but devoted the 
greater part of his life to scholarly pursuits. A fellow of the National Academy 
of Design, he was himself an artist of merit, and delighted in his sketches and 
paintings, to depict the scenery characteristic of Orange County, in his estima- 
tion, of unsurpassed beauty. Its graceful elms, giant oaks and chestnuts were 
his special study and admiration, and the reckless destruction of the county's for- 
ests and groves, which during his lifetime he was obliged to witness, occasioned 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 951 

him the deepest regret for economic and climatic reasons, even more than from 
the standpoint of the artist. 

Mr. Steward was one of the incorporators and a patron of the Metropolitan 
Museum of Art, also of the American Museum of Natural History, being first 
vice-president of the latter for many years. To this museum he presented many 
fine fossils and Indian remains, some of which were found in Orange County, and 
also his collection of shells, he being a noted conchologist. This collection, though 
not the largest, was said to contain rarer and more beautiful specimens than any 
other private collection of shells in the world, and it can now be seen intact in 
the museum. 

Mr. Steward was widely interested in philanthropic and charitable enterprises. 
It may be mentioned that he was instrumental in sending to Japan in 1858, and 
personally supported there for five jears, the famous missionary. Dr. Verbeck, to 
whose influence with the emperor is largely attributed the awakening of Japan, 
liitherto closed to the world, and its opening to western civilization. 

EDWTX F. STILL was born in Catskill, Greene County, N. Y., August 30, 1878, 
and educated in the public school. As a member of Company E, 2nd N. Y. V., he 
accompanied the regiment to Port Tampa, Fla., and remained in the service about 
seven months in the war with Spain. He came to Warwick in November, 1901, 
worked in Arnold's Photographic Studio, and purchased the business the next 
year. He is first assistant engineer of the Warwick Fire Department and is serv- 
ing a second term as police justice. He was elected November, 1907, to the office 
of town clerk of Warwick. He is a member of the Christ Episcopal Church. He 
married Miss Matilda Carson, daughter of Thomas Carson, of Warwick. 

MOSES A. STIVERS, M.D., was born in Middletown, Orange County, N. Y., 
November 14, 1872. He received his education at the Middletown High School 
and attended Columbia College, New York City. Dr. Stivers has been connected 
with the house staff of the New York Hospital and the New York Caxicer Hos- 
pital. He served as master of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, is a member of the Na- 
tional Guard and holds the position of assistant surgeon at the present time. He 
was married to Lillian C. Hummell, of Port Jervis, and they have one child, Mary 
Van Etten. Dr. Stivers is at present attending physician at the Thrall Hospital, 
vice-president of the Orange County Medical Society, and secretary and treasurer 
of the Stivers Printing Co., of Middletown, N. Y. 

GEORGE H. STRONG was born at Blooming Grove in .A.ugust, 1867, was edu- 
cated in the district school and Monroe .\cadcmy, and at the age of sixteen be- 
came associated in business with Knight & Conklin, and remained with them eight 
years. October i, 1891, Conklin & Strong purchased the feed and grain business 
of H. K. Wood, of Warwick, and in 1897, the business of W. S. Board & Co., of 
Vernon, N. J. In 1898 they built a store in New Milford and in 1906 bought the 
lumber and coal business of B. S. Galloway, of Warwick. Mr. Strong is president 



952 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the Warwick Telephone Company, a director of the Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation and Warwick Building Company, and a trustee of the village. He is also 
a member of Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. & A. M. He married Miss Emma, 
daughter of Henry Mapes, October 10, 1888. btella, Harry and Julia are the 
names of their three children. 

SELAH E. STRONG, ex-sheriff of Orange County, was born at the Strong 
homestead, "Maple Hurst," in the town of Blooming Grove in 1843, and it was here 
his death occurred, July, 1905. The ancestry of the Strongs in America dates 
back to John Strong, who came from England in 1629 and settled in eastern Mas- 
sachusetts. Major Nathaniel Strong, who figured prominently in the early history 
of Orange County, was shot October 6, 1778, by Claudius Smith at the homestead 
door in Blooming Grove. He was the great-great-grandfather of the subject of 
this sketch. Mr. Strong was educated at the schools of his native place and en- 
gaged in farming as an occupation. At the age of twenty-one he was elected 
highway commissioner, occupying that position twelve years. In 1876 he was 
elected a member of the board of supervisors, holding the office six years. From 
1878 to 1884 he was postmaster, receiving the appointment from President Hayes. 
In 1897 the people of Orange County, in recognition of his worth and ability, 
elected him to the office of sheriff, where he administered his duties in such a 
business-like and careful manner as to win hearty commendation from the citizens 
of Orange County. In 1873 Mr. Strong was united in marriage to Miss Stella 
K. Hetzel, of Florida, a descendant of an old Revolutionary family. Two children 
were born to them, H. Sherwood, who is engaged in business in New York City, 
and Edith, now Mrs. A. J. Norton, of Saugerties, N. Y. Mrs. Strong continues to 
reside at the homestead, which has sheltered seven generations of this sterling 
family. 

INGHAM STUBLEY, clerk of the Board of Supervisors, was born in Eng- 
land in 1853, s"d has resided in Newburgh since 1868. For twelve years he was 
bookkeeper for the firm of Haigh & Mellor, woolen manufacturers. In 1880 he 
and his father, William Stubley, established the rag, iron and metal business at its 
present location, 129 Broadway. Mr. Stubley has been continuously elected clerk 
of the Board of Supervisors since 1892. He has been a member of Newburgh 
Lodge No. 309, F. & A. M., for thirty-four years and for ten years has served as 
its secretary. He has also passed through all the chairs in Acme Lodge No. 469, 
I. O. O. F. ; is a member of Mount Olive Encampment No. 65 and Highland Chap- 
ter, R. A. M., of Newburgh. He married Nancy J. Dickerson, of Orange County, 
in 1875, and has two sons, William and Charles G., who are associated with him 
in business. 

GEORGE C. STULL was born June 7, 1864, at Belvidere, N. J. His parents 
were Henry J. and Mary (Fine) Stull. Mr. StuU received his early education 
at Belvidere, N. J. When he was fifteen years of age he started in the milk busi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 953 

ness and continued for ck-vcn years, lie removed to Goshen. Orange County, 
N. Y., in 1890, and engaged in the wholesale and retail candy and ice cream busi- 
ness, which business he now conducts. In politics he is a republican. He attends 
tiie Presbyterian Church of Goshen, N. Y. He is a member of the Cataract Hose 
Company of Goshen, and an ex-member of I. O. O. F. of New York City. 

GEORGE W. STURR, of Florida, was born in Kerney, Hudson County, N. J., 
October 26, 1845. His parents, Daniel R. and Sarah Sturr, had five children, and 
George was the third son. When he was seven years old he left home and went 
to Brooklyn, where he lived until he was twenty-one, and was educated in the 
Brooklyn public schools. He then became a clerk for about three years in Dan- 
bury, Conn., when he embarked in business for himself and has been identified 
with several business enterprises. In 1881 he became associated for several years 
with the Metropolitan Manufacturing Company, of New York City. In 1894 he 
purchased a home in Florida, where he still resides. 

Mr. Sturr married Mary Louise Gregory, of Ulster County, N. Y., in 1867, and 
they have had four children, two sons and two daughters. Both sons are dead. 
The daughters are Alberta L. and Ada Cressie. The wife and mother died April 
25, 1906. 

ALEXANDER C. SUTHERL.WD, superintendent of the poor for Orange 
County, was born at Central Valley, N. Y., June 9, 1855. His education was ob- 
tained in the public school of that place, supplemented by a short course in the 
Mount Vernon Institute, New York City. Mr. Sutherland spent his early days on 
his father's farm and has since made farming his occupation. He has held the 
office of superintendent of the poor since January i, 1896, and has during that 
time inaugurated many important improvements in the county's establishment. 
Previous to his election to that office he resided for a number of years on his farm 
near Turners, and for years was president of the Board of Education of that vil- 
lage, and also served as town assessor. 

Socially he is aff.liated with Standard Lodge No. 711, F. & .\. M., of Monroe, 
of which he is past master; Midland Chapter, R. A. M., of Middletown; Cyprus 
Commandcry No. 67, K. T. ; Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine of New York, and the 
Consistory. He has passed all chairs in Knights of Pythias Lodge, and is a mem- 
ber of the Goshen Club and the Old Orcliard Club of Middietown. 

He was joined in marriage on January 17, 1883, with Miss Elizabeth Cooper, of 
Central Valley, and their family consists of four children living: Harriet C, Mar- 
tha C, Clara E. and Annie M. 

Mr. Sutherland is one of the representative tnen of Orange County and makes an 
efficient and tliorough county officer. 

MORRIS SVV.\CKHAMMER was l>orn .\pril i?. 1877, at Mount Rose, Susque- 
hanna County, Pa. He has been identified with tlie Borden Creameries five years 
and witli the New Milford Branch two years, where he is now the manager. This 



954 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

creamery has the best modern appliances for the hygienic handling and care of 
milk, of which it receives about 5,000 gallons annually. Mr. Swackhammer is a 
member of Mount Rose Chapter No. 151, I. O. O. F. His wife's maiden name 
was Miss Lottie Jones, of Mount Rose, Pa. Their only child is Roy, born January 
16, 1904. 

HENRY B. SWARTWOUT, M.D., of Port Jervis, is a member of one of the 
oldest families in America. He was born in Port Jervis, February 4, 1861, on the 
farm which is a part of the original tract of land settled by the Swartwouts 
in 1690. His parents are Peter P. and Hannah (Cuddeback) Swartwout. The 
family originated in Holland and were among the early Dutch settlers of New 
Amsterdam. 

Dr. Swartwout is the youngest of a family of nine children, five of whom are 
living. He obtained his education at Port Jervis Academy, supplemented by a two- 
year course at Cornell University. He began the study of medicine in the office 
of Dr. W. L. Cuddeback, and later entered Bellevue Medical College of New York, 
from which he graduated in 1885. He remained one year, as interne, in the New 
York Chambers Street Hospital. 

His marriage with Miss Carrie B. Peck, daughter of George V. Peck, of Port 
Jervis, occurred March 10, 1886, after which they spent six months abroad, during 
the time taking a post-graduate course in the Vienna Hospital. Upon his return 
home he took up the practice of medicine, and in 1892, with Dr. W. L. Cuddeback, 
purchased the Hunt Memorial Hospital, which they have since conducted. 

Dr. Swartwout is a member of the Orange County, the State and the American 
Medical Associations, and the Erie Railway Surgeons' Association. He is also a 
member of the Deer Park Club and at the present time is mayor of Port Jervis. 

To Doctor and Mrs. Swartwout have been born four children. Henry Lewis 
died at the age of one year. Those living are Florence, Charlotte and Herbert B. 

CLAYTON E. SWEET, of the firm of Sweet, Orr & Co., was born at Wap- 
pingers Falls, N. Y., June 16, 1834, and after a large business experience in that 
town he moved to Newburgh in 1887, to which city the business offices of the com- 
pany were changed that year. His father was for many years a merchant and 
manufacturer in Wappingers Falls, and for a period postmaster of the village. Mr. 
Sweet was educated at the public schools of his native place and at the Dutchess 
County Academy at Poughkeepsie. Then for three years he was in the employ of 
Levi Cook & Co., merchants on Broadway, New York. He returned to Wap- 
pinger's Falls to enter his father's store, and ere long was made a partner. 

For many years Mr. Sweet was one of the leading business men of the place 
and of great usefulness to the community. He was one of the first trustees of the 
Wappingers Savings Bank, and acted as its secretary and treasurer until it ob- 
tained a substantial footing; he was afterwards elected vice-president of the in- 
stitution. For seven years he was postmaster of the village under President Grant. 
He was also a director of the Fallkill National Bank of Poughkeepsie, and a ves- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 955 

tryman of the Zion Episcopal Church of Wappingers Falls. Since 1876 Mr. 
Sweet, as head of the firm of Sweet, Orr & Co., has given his whole attention to 
the manufacture of overalls. This firm are the pioneers in this business and their 
product the largest in the country. Mr. Sweet has served as a trustee of the New- 
burgh Savings Bank and vestryman of St. George's Episcopal Church. He is 
president of the Newburgh City Club and a director of the Newburgh National 
Bank. He married in i860, Chattie Louise, daughter of Hon. James Manning, of 
Bethany, Pa., and a lineal descendant of Captain Bazaliel Tyler, a soldier of the 
Revolution, who was killed when leading the advance guard at the battle of Mini- 
sink. 

LYMAN H. TAFT, editor and proprietor of the Montgomery Standard and Re- 
porter, has resided in Orange County since 1888. Previously he made his home in 
Warren, Pa. 

October 2^, 1888, Mr. Taft bought the Montgovtery Reporter, a four-page sheet, 
founded May 30, 1887, by George H. Young. January i, 1899, Mr. Taft purchased 
the Montgomery Standard from the Winfield family, who had owned the paper 
since 1868. He consolidated it with the Reporter under the above title. It is a 
four-page blanket paper, republican in politics. Mr. Taft, the popular editor, is a 
member of the Knights of Pythias, the Maccabees and the Foresters. 

CAPTAIN THOMAS TAFT, senior member of the Taft-Howell Company, 
successor to the firm of Mead & Taft, contractors, builders and manufacturers, at 
Cornwall Landing, N. Y., is a lineal descendant of the colonist, Robert Taft, who 
came from England to Massachusetts in 1677. He is the oldest son of Daniel Taft, 
the sixth in line of descent from the colonist Robert and his wife Emeline Smith, 
descendant of a family of Pennsylvania Quakers who, escaping the massacre at 
Wyoming, settled near Woodbury Falls in Orange County. 

Captain Taft was born in the town of Cornwall, September 28, 1840; was edu- 
cated in the A. C. Roe Collegiate School at Cornwall, and at the outbreak of the 
Civil War was engaged in the building business with his father and brother-in- 
law, C. H. Mead. In response to Lincoln's appeal for three hundred thousand 
additional volunteers, he enlisted as a private in Company C, 124th Regiment, New 
York Volunteers, and in recognition of ability, fortitude and bravery displayed in 
camp, on the march and in battle, was promoted from grade to grade to the cap- 
taincy of his company. 

In the desperate charge of the 124th at Devil's Den on the field of Gettysburg, 
in which Colonel Ellis, Major Cromwell and so many of his brave comrades were 
killed, he was disabled by wounds received at the most advanced point readied, 
and was captured by the enemy. Four months later he had been exchanged and 
was again on duty with his regiment. With the exception of these and the battle 
of Boydton Road, he was never absent from the 124th when it was under fire. 

In 1866, the year after the close of the war, Captain Taft engaged in the build- 
ing business with his brother-in-law, Charles H. Mead, under the firm name of 



956 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Mead & Taft, employing from eighteen to twenty hands. In 1906 the company 
had in its employ over five hundred men, a majority of whom were skilled me- 
chanics. Its plant at Cornwall Landing, on the west bank of the Hudson, is one 
of the most complete and extensive of its kind in the State. The building opera- 
tions of the firm have extended from Northern New Hampshire to San Antonio, 
Texas. Since 1866 it has erected some eight hundred or nine hundred buildings, 
nearly all of which have been expensive structures. In the building up and suc- 
cessful management of this extensive business Captain Taft has been the leading 
factor. 

In 1883 a movement looking to the incorporation of the village of Cornwall was 
defeated. Two years later the proposition was again brought before the people 
and carried, and Captain Taft was elected the first president of the newly incor- 
porated village, and was retained in office until 1889. Immediately on assuming 
office he put in operation a system of road improvement which in less than two 
years gave to Cornwall the reputation of having the best streets of any village in 
the county. Under a changed administration the taxpayers soon became dissatis- 
fied, Captain Taft was petitioned to again stand for president, and in 1891 was 
elected without opposition, serving until 1895. 

Realizing that the natural beauties of the Highlands of the Hudson were at last 
awakening public interest, Captain Taft began several years ago, as opportunity 
offered, the purchase of lands in the Storm King region, where he now owns 
several rather extensive tracts, which it is believed will at no distant day be so 
improved as to enhance the attractiveness of his native town. 

He was married in 1881 to Mary G., eldest daughter of Dr. James E. Knapp, of 
Marlborough, Ulster County, N. Y. They have two sons, Thomas Knapp Taft 
and Royal M. Taft. 

WILLIAM G. TAGGART, for many years county clerk of Orange County, was 
born in Newburgh, N. Y., November 20, 1856. After graduating from the academy 
he engaged with his father, Archibald Taggart, in the meat business. In 1891 he 
resigned the postmastership of Newburgh to accept the office of clerk of Orange 
County, to which he had been elected, and was re-elected in 1894, 1897 and 1900. 
He is a member of several secret societies, including Newburgh Lodge, F. and A." 
M. ; Highland Chapter, R. A. M., and Hudson River Commandery, K. T. 

Mr. Taggart is secretary of the Orange County Traction Company. 

H. R. TAYLOR, of Pine Bush, N. Y., who conducts an extensive trade in 
lumber, building materials, etc., established this business in 1895. His father, 
Archibald R. Taylor, was a native of Ulster County, and in 1849 located in Pine 
Bush, where he purchased a large tract of land, and began the erection of buildings. 
He was largely identified with the prosperity of this village and associated with its 
business interests. In 1856 he married Miss Mary, daughter of John Colwell 
Rainey, of Crawford. The following children were born : Archibald, Hamilton 
R., Emily, Anne and John C, now state senator. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 957 

GEORGE W. TEN EYCK was born in Rockland County, X. Y., May 8, 1824. 
His mother, Mary Youmans Ten Eyck, died December 4, 1884, in the ninetieth 
year of her age. David Ten Eyck, his father, was a cooper by trade, and a de- 
scendant of the early settlers by that name, who came from Holland, locating 
in Rockland County, some of them serving in the Revolutionary struggle. When 
George was a mere lad his father died, and the boy was bound out to service until 
he was twenty-one years old to a farmer near Sugar Loaf. He served his appren- 
ticeship and in the course of a few years the thrifty young farmer had accumu- 
lated a fine farm of one hundred and thirty-two acres. It was on this farm 
(known as Maple Grove farm for years) that he reared his family, remaining 
there during the remainder of his life, nearly half a century, his demise occurring 
December 13, 1900. Mr. Ten Eyck was a self-made man, he secured an ordinary 
education, was noted for his integrity and just dealing, was engaged in various 
enterprises outside of his farm, and much of his means he lost bj' helping others, 
indorsing notes, etc. He was endowed with great muscular strength, having per- 
formed many lifting feats in his earlier life. He was always a staunch republi- 
can, working hard for the cause. He married Christien Peterson, of Warwick, 
January 11, 1850, a most estimable woman, who passed away on her seventieth 
birthday, February 7, 1897. Five children were the result of this union, Coe H., 
who owns the Valley House, Greenwood Lake; Hutson G., deceased at thirty- 
eight, was a noted architect for several years previous to his death at Newark, 
N. J.; George W., a carpenter and builder at Elizabeth, N. J.; Mary L., wife of 
Francis G. Knapp, and Andrew, both residing at tlicir lionic, "The Anchorage," at 
Middletown. 



FLOYD E. TETHER was born February 22, 1872, on a farm between Amity and 
Edenville, Orange County. He attended the Warwick Academy after leaving the 
district school, and then took a course in Eastman's Business College at Pough- 
keepsie. Soon afterward he became identified with the Clyde Steamship Company 
of New York City, with which he remained one year, and then clerked in a general 
store in Edenville two years. He entered into a mercantile partnership in 1894 
with G. S. Everett at Florida, Orange County, where they conducted a general 
store. In the fall of 1896 C. M. Knapp, of Goshen, purchased Mr. Everett's in- 
terest and the firm became Tether & Knapp. This partnership continued until 
March, 1900, when Mr. Tether became the sole proprietor. He is a member of 
the Presbyterian Church and of Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. and A. M. Mr. 
Tether was married to Mary A. Knapp, of Pine Island, Orange County, February 
4, 1896. They have four children, James E., Clifford F., Russell K. and Beatrice 
M. Mr. Tether's parents were Edward J. and Sarah A. Tether. Their children 
are Floyd E., Eva J., who married Louis B. Williams, of Florida, and Harry L., 
who is a farmer on the homestead. A daughter, Hannah, died in her sixteenth 
year. The father died July 17, 1907. The mother is still living. They resided on 
the homestead over forty years. 



958 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

REV. JOHN TETREAU is pastor of the Church of St. Mary, Washingtonville, 
N. Y. Previous to 1872 this parish was under the direction of Newburgh pastors, but 
in that year a small chapel was built and Father Keogh paid monthly visits. He was 
followed by Father Mackin, and then came Rev. William Ward, who was the real 
founder of the congregation and continued until 1887, when Rev. Henry J. Gordon, 
of Cornwall, was given charge of the mission until 1892. Fathers Carr, Hannigan 
and Ward, of Chester, were the next pastors until 1898. The parish was then re- 
annexed to Cornwall, and Father Currie given charge until May, 1901, to be fol- 
lowed by Father Fenton until October 4, 1902, when Rev. John Tetreau became 
resident pastor, and it is due to his energy and management that the parishioners 
now have a beautiful place of worship. During his first year he enlarged the home 
from one room to a commodious rectory. This was followed by the erection of 
modern sheds with accommodations for forty carriages. August 5, 1906, the corner- 
stone was laid by Father Sally, of Newburgh, for the enlargement of the church 
from 40 by 23 feet to 76 by 41 feet — the dedication ceremonies occurring July 16, 
1907. This church is equipped with a fine pipe organ, comfortable pews and heated 
by steam. Father Tetreau was born and educated in Canada. Since 1889 his pas- 
torates have been in the United States. For twelve years he was connected with 
St. Jean Baptiste Church in New York. He is much beloved by his parishioners, 
for whom he has accomplished such extensive improvements. He also has charge 
of the Maybrook mission. 



WILLIAM THAYER was one of Newburgh's oldest and most successful mer- 
chants. He came there from Brooklyn, Conn., in 1809. His ancestors came 
from England in 1636 and settled in Massachusetts, where their descendants have 
been among the most prominent men of that State. As recorded in history this 
family dates back in England manj'^ centuries, and were people of wealth and influ- 
ence, holding offices of trust, and having towns named in their honor. 

John Thayer, William's brother, came with him to Newburgh. John never 
married. William married in 1812 Elizabeth Carpenter, daughter of Leonard and 
Bridget (Belknap) Carpenter, and grand-daughter of Captain Isaac Belknap. Their 
children were William L., unmarried ; John S., married Catharine Stearns ; Elijah 
Carpenter married Mary J. Morrison, daughter of Hamilton Morrison, of Mont- 
gomery, N. Y. ; Charles F. married Anna F. Miller ; Anna B. married Henry 
Dolson ; Elizabeth C. married O. L. Sypher ; George A. and Caroline M., un- 
married. 

In 1826 William Thayer built a house on the corner of Montgomery and Second 
streets, where he lived until 1837, when he retired from active business life and 
removed to his large estate of three hundred acres on the heights of Balmville. 
There he built a large stone mansion, one of the finest and most substantial homes 
in that section of the county; as it stood on a blufif it commanded a magnificent 
river view for miles. There he lived until his death in 1855. 

John Thayer died in 1861. Both of these men, having been very fortunate in 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 959 

business, accumulated fortunes. They were progressive and very influential in 
their time and place, and were held in the highest esteem by all who knew them. 

The descendants of William Thayer are his daughter, Mrs. O. L. Sypher, the 
only member of the family now living; his grandchildren are the children of John 
S., living in Los Angeles, Cal. ; the children of Charles F., living in Washington, 
D. C. ; the Thayer family at Burnside and Mrs. Elmer Tibbetts, of Newburgh ; 
children of Elijah C. and Mrs. Marsh, daughter of Mrs. Sypher, of East Orange, 
N. J. 

ALEXANDER THOMPSON, a prominent farmer in the town of Crawford, 
Orange County, was a son of Augustus and Catherine (Hunter) Thompson, was 
born on the homestead near Thompson Ridge in 1850, and died January 17, 1908. 
He was afforded the opportunity to secure a good education and ni 187 1 graduated 
from Williams College with the degree of A.B. 

Mr. Thompson married Miss Abbie Beattie and they are the parents of seven 
children. He was for fifteen years an elder in the Hopewell Presbyterian 
Church. The family resides on the ancestral acres. Augustus Thompson, 
the father of our subject, was for many years identified with public affairs in 
Orange County. He filled the offices both of bank and railroad director and was 
one of the bonding commissioners of the town of Crawford, until his death in 
1874. In 1849 and 1850 he was supervisor and in 1865 was elected justice of the 
peace. 

CHARLES HUDSON THOMPSON was born November ir, 1877. His 
parents are Horace Decker and Sarah (Millspaugh) Thompson. He received his 
early education at a private school at Goshen, known as the Goshen Institute of 
Professor William Galdthwaite, the Middletown High School, and the University 
of Pennsylvania, graduating from the dental department of the latter institution 
in 1900. After graduating he returned to Goshen and was associated with Dr. 
Parker for three years. In 1903 he was interested in business in Brooklyn, N. Y., 
and returning to Goshen in 1904 opened a dental office. He is a member of Goshen 
Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 365; Midland Chapter No. 240; Cypress Commandery 
No. 67; and Ajamoore Chapter, Order Eastern Star. For three years he has been 
a member of the board of governors of Goshen Social Athletic Association, and 
is assistant foreman of the Cataract Fire Company; member of Second District 
Dental Society; also a charter member of the Ninth Judicial Dental Society. In 
politics Dr. Thompson is a republican. 

JAMES RENWICK THOMPSON, JR., attorney of Newburgh, N. Y., was 
born in Newburgh, 1874. He is a graduate of the academy, and the law depart- 
ment of Cornell University, with the degree of LL.B., in 1896, and was admitted 
to the bar in 1897. 

Mr. Thompson married Miss Julia, daughter of James Dickey, in 1906. He is a 



96o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

son of Rev. J. R. and Mary F. (Lawson) Thompson. Rev. Dr. Thompson has 
been pastor of Westminster Church, Newburgh, N. Y., since 1856. 

WILLIAM M. THOMPSON was born in Hamptonburgh, September 20, 1865, 
on what was kn^own as the Charles M. Thompson farm. He m.arried Mary H. 
Corwin, daughter of W. S. and Corneha Corwin, of New York City. Mr. and 
Mrs. Thompson have had four children, one of whom died at the age of four. 
Those living are: Ruth, aged fourteen; William M., Jr., and Roland Harlon. Mr. 
Thompson is a democrat, and has been elected town collector three times. He is 
a member of Grange No. 950 of Hamptonburgh, trustee and clerk of the Presby- 
terian Church at Campbell Hall, and trustee, secretary and treasurer of the Hamp- 
tonburgh Cemetery Association. For ten years he has been energetic and useful 
in local and church work. 

JOHN W. THORN was born in Mount Hope, February 17, 1864. After his 
education in the district and a private school, he engaged in the feed and coal 
trade, and in 1894 started a creamery near Middletown, which he recently sold, and 
is now conducting a creamery at Westtown, N. Y. He is a member of Hoffman 
Lodge No. 412, F. and A. M. ; Midland Chapter No. 420, R. A. M. ; Cypress Com- 
mandery No. 67, K. T. ; and of the Commercial Travelers' Middletown Council. 
His father is A. D. Thorn, a Mount Hope farmer, and his mother's maiden name 
was Lucinda Moore. 

HON. HOWARD THORNTON, attorney of Newburgh, N. Y., was born on 
Governors' Island, New York Harbor, on February 25, 1849, where his father, 
General William A. Thornton, was stationed at the time. 

Mr. Thornton conies of old Revolutionary stock. His paternal grandfather was 
Major John Thornton, of the Continental and Revolutionary Army, and his pa- 
ternal grandmother was a daughter of Colonel Samuel Clyde, of Cherry Valley. 
Matthew Thornton, one of the signers, was an uncle of his grandfather. On his 
mother's side his ancestors run back to the DeWitts, who were prominent in the 
Revolutionary period in the Hudson Valley. 

Mr. Thornton attended the public schools of New York City, and the College 
of the City of New York. Later he entered Union College, from which he grad- 
uated in 1872. He entered the office of Eugene A. Brewster, of Newburgh, as a 
law student in the year of his graduation, and subsequently the Albany Law 
School, from which he graduated in 1874. Returning to the office of Mr. Brewster 
he remained there until 1883, when he opened his present office. 

A staunch republican, Mr. Thornton has long been identified with its affairs in 
this city. In 1891 he was elected a member of assembly from the first assembly 
district of Orange County, and re-elected in 1892 and 1893. During his third term 
he was chairman of the judiciary committee of the assembly. 

He has been prominently connected with the Masonic organizations of New- 
burgh ; is president of the board of trustees of Washington's Headquarters in 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 961 

Newburgh ; a member of the board of education of that city, and vice-president 
of the National Bank of Newburgh. 

SAMUEL V. TIDD was born February i, 1842. His parents were John and 
Hulda Tidd. Five children were born to this union. Samuel acquired his educa- 
tion at the district school and in after years became a mechanic. He enlisted in the 
124th Regiment, the famous "Orange Blossoms," September 2, 1S62, and was en- 
gaged in many important battles. He was taken prisoner in 1864 and confined in 
the Andersonville prison for eleven months. He married Harriet Reeves, of 
Howells, N. Y., March 6, 1866; five children were born to this union, Addie L., 
born February 2^, li^dj : Harriet E., born August 26, 1868; Nettie W., born 
March 17, 1870; Elizabeth, born February 10, 1872; John S., born October 23, 1873. 
Nettie is the wife of Harry Miller, of INIiddletown, N. Y., and John married Julia 
McWhinnie, of New York City. Mr. Tidd is a republican, has been collector of 
the school district four terms and constable one term. He is a member of Lyon 
Post, G. A. R., No. 266, of :\Iiddleto\vn, N. Y. 

CHARLES E. TOWER, postmaster at ^laybrook and member of the firm of 
Tower Brothers, general merchants, is a native of Oneida County, N. Y., where 
his brother Fred. W. was also born. Their father, Albert Tower, moved to Orange 
County in 1870, locating at Campbell Hall, where he was engaged in the milk 
business for twenty- five years. He established the store at Maybrook in 1889, 
where he served as postmaster fourteen years. He also held the office of justice 
of the peace for three years. His death occurred in 1904. Inheriting the industry 
and enterprise of their father the Tower brothers arc numbered among the progres- 
sive business men of Orange County. They are members of the Order of United 
American Mechanics. 

THOMAS POWELL TOWNSEND, son of Jacob P. and i\Iary Ann (Barrett) 
Townsend, was born at Milton, Ulster County, N. Y., November 26, 1836. His 
father was a prosperous merchant of Milton, and young Thomas remained in 
his employ acquiring the requisite training for a successful business career until 
i860, when he located in Newburgh and engaged in wholesale merchandise and 
general freighting business until 1876, when with the exception of a period in 
1881, in which he was interested in the wholesale grocery house of James A. 
Townsend & Co., he has lived in comparative retirement. Mr. Townsend has 
steadfastly declined to hold public ofike, directorships, membership in clubs 
and fraternal organizations, preferring to enjoy the seclusion and privacy of his 
home. He married Mary Augusta, daughter of Hon. George Clark. They have 
one daughter, now Mrs. Florence C, wife of Charles T. McKenzie, married Octo- 
ber 22, 1890. 

FRANK T. AND A. G. TRIPP, publishers of The AV-cj of the Highlands- at 
Highland Falls, N. Y., established this bright weekly eight-page newspaper, March, 



962 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

1891. A valuable feature of the paper is the chronicling of the news of West 
Point. A modern job printing plant is also conducted, and it has a large advertis- 
ing patronage in Newburgh. 

Messrs. Tripp are from the State of Ohio, and their progressive western spirit 
is apparent in the management of the enterprise in their adopted village. 

JOHN TURL'S SONS. — This company occupies the buildings in South Water 
street, Newburgh, formerly known as the Washington Iron Works. The business 
consists chiefly of general machine and boiler shop work. The company deals ex- 
tensively in sugar machinery, railroad tracks, rails and industrial cars. They em- 
ploy a force of one hundred men. The industry was founded in New York City 
in 1845 by John Turl and the works removed to Newburgh in 1905. The officers 
of the company are Joseph H. Turl, president; Charles H. Pratt, secretary; Harry 
C. Turl, treasurer. 

HIRAM TUTHILL, born November 30, 1837, in Elmira, Chemung County, N. 
Y., attended school there until sixteen years old, when he moved to Chester, Or- 
ange County, and became clerk for Charles S. and J. B. Tuthill. This was in Feb- 
ruary, 1854, and in May, 1855, he changed to clerk in the Chester Bank, and re- 
mained there as bookkeeper and teller thirteen years. He then went to his birth- 
place, Elmira, and was in the dry goods business there a year, when he returned 
to Chester and purchased the dry goods and grocery business of Tuthill & Jack- 
son, which he carried on from 1869 to 1900. In August of the latter year he was 
elected president of the Chester Bank, and still holds the responsible position. He 
married Miss Pauline W. Conklin, of Elmira, February 24, 1869, and their only 
son, Leddra W. C. Tuthill, is engaged in an advertising business in New York 
City. There was another son, who died in December, 1879, at the age of ten. 
Mrs. Tuthill died March 15, 1903. Mr. Tuthill has been active and energetic in 
local public affairs as well as his more private mercantile and banking pursuits. 

HARRY TWEDDLE, son of John and Phcebe (Comfort) Tweddle, was born 
in the town of Montgomery, Orange County, N. Y., in 1868. He obtained his edu- 
cation at the schools of Montgomery, and is now engaged in the cultivation of a 
farm of two hundred acres. 

Mr. Tweddle is master of the Montgomery Grange, and a director of the 
Patrons of Husbandry Fire Insurance Company of Ulster and Orange Counties. 
Mr. Tweddle married Miss Mary E. Burch and they are the parents of two chil- 
dren, John P. and Robert K. 

GARRETT H. TYMESON, postmaster at Otisville, N. Y., was born February 
22, 1847, at Wayne County, Pa. His parents were Truman and Elsie Tymeson. 
His father was one of the pioneer lumbermen locating in Pennsylvania when the 
lumber interests were at their best. He was identified many years with this business, 
retiring in 1866. Garrett attended the district school in his locality, after which 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 963 

he attended the academy at Monticcllo. His early life was spent in the lumber 
business, after which he entered the mercantile business. He was married May 
2, 1871, to Miss Mary Carey, of Middletown, N. Y. Four children were born to 
this union, one still living. Howard, born September 6, 1872, married Miss Mary 
Uempsey, and now resides in Paterson, N. J. 

Mr. Tymeson went west in the spring of 1877, settling at Frederick, Kans., re- 
maining there twenty years. He served eight years as justice of the peace at that" 
place. In 1897 he returned to New York State, locating at Otisville, Orange 
County, was appointed postmaster July 11, 1899, and still holds that position. 
In 1907 the Otisville post-office was made a third-class office. In politics he 
is a republican. He is a member of the Otisville Presbyterian Church. So- 
cially, he is a member of Hoffman Lodge Xo. 412, F. and A. M., of Middletown, 
N. Y. His son Harry died in infancy; Arthur married Helen Clark, of Middle- 
town, and died March 31, 1905; and Elsie, wife of Dr. L. A. Summers, of Wheaton, 
Kans., died August 2, 1902. Their one son Waller resides witli Mr. Tymeson. 

BENJAMIN F. VAIL, supervisor of the town of Warwick, N. Y., was born 
October 23, 1843, at Chester, Orange County. His early education was obtained 
at the district school and the Seward Institute at Florida, N. Y. He moved to 
Honesdale, Pa., where he remained for three years, engaging in the dry goods 
business. In 1868 he removed to Warwick, entering the grocery business, and later 
engaging in general merchandise. He was postmaster at Warwick during the 
Cleveland administration. In 1890 he purchased the business of R. and R. J. 
Wisner, dealers in lumber, paints, etc. This concern was established in 1884. Mr. 
Vail was married to Miss Jane C. Cline, December 31, 1868, of Warwick. Two 
children were born to this union, Cora C. and Pauline F. Mr. Vail takes an 
active interest in matters pertaining to Warwick. He is a member of Warwick 
Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 544. 

HARRY VAIL was born at New Mil ford. Orange County, N. Y. He attended 
the district school there and at Amitj-, and then engaged in the meat business at 
Amity. He continued this two years, and bought a small farm of thirty-five acres 
at New Milford, and leased the Sutton farm of one hundred and sixty acres, 
which he purchased in 1903. He is one of the most extensive peach growers in 
Orange County, having 9,000 trees. June 15, 1899, he married Miss Cclia Utter, 
daughter of J. W. Utter, of Amity. Their children's names are Harry, Jr., Roy 
and Emily. Mr. Vail, in his specialty of fruit growing, has been successful, and 
therefore prosperous. He is secretary of Warwick Lodge No. 544, F. and A. M. 

JOHN CARPENTER VAIL was born in Chester, Orange Count>', May 13, 1846, 
and educated in the Chester district school and academy. He was clerk for Dr. 
C. P. Smith about a year, and then at D. H. Roe's grocery two years. Next he was 
in the commission business in New York City two years, when he returned to 
Orange County, and in Warwick engaged in the occupation of breeding high- 



964 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

class hunting dogs, for which, he obtained a somewhat exclusive trade in the- 
metropolis and elsewhere, his specialty being English setters. 

Some of his dogs are shipped to Cuba, Halifax, California, Florida and other 
parts of the United States. He married Mary Reed Van Duzer, of Warwick, 
April 6, 1864. Their three children are Hazel Clark, Christine Reed and Robert 
Cornell. 

WILLETT VAIL, of Florida, N. Y., was born at Hughsonville, Dutchess 
County, now known as Fishkill-on-Hudson, July 11, 1848. <He obtained his early 
education at the district school, later attending a private school at Hughsonville. 
He learned the mason trade at Poughkeepsie, and later worked on the State 
Hospital at Middletown, N. Y. From Middletown he came to Florida, where 
he has since resided and for twenty years conducted his business. He married 
Georgiana Eliza Thompson, of Florida, when twenty-seven years of age. Four 
children have been born by this union ; two died in infancy. Those surviving are : 
Hattie E., wife of LeRoy Davis, of New York City, and Ira V. K., now of New 
York City. Mr. Vail is a member of the American Society of Equity and was 
commissioner of highways of Warwick township one year. He erected the Vail 
opera house at Florida in 1895, and this, the only amusement place in Florida, en- 
joys a good business. Both his father and mother died of old age, each being 
nearly eighty years of age at their death. There are eight children in his parents' 
family still living. Mr. Vail has taken an active interest in matters pertaining 
to the welfare and betterment of the village of Florida. 

AYMAR VAN BUREN, who has been a resident of New Windsor, Orange 
County, since 1851, was born in New York City, January 10, 1837. Mr. Van 
Buren, as his name indicates, is of Holland descent. His great-grandfather, his 
grandfather and his father, Colonel John D. Van Buren, were all natives of the 
American metropolis. 

He was educated at public and private schools, and began business life in 
1862, by purchasing a portion of the farm property of Edmund Morton, of 
the town of New Windsor. In 1863 he married Miss Margaret, daughter of Mr. 
Morton. They resided on this farm of ninety acres until 1882, when Mr. Van 
Buren sold out and became a resident of the old Morton homestead. 

He is a firm believer in the principles of the Democratic party, and al- 
though not an office-seeker, he has for years been very active in the public affairs 
of the town. He has been trustee of School District No. i since 1871 ; has served 
as a member of the board of health, and for many years was road master. In 
religious matters he is a member of the Episcopal Church, serving as warden, 
vestryman and treasurer. 

JOSEPH VAN CLEFT, merchant and banker, Newburgh, N. Y., was born in 
the town of New Windsor, Orange County, 1836. The Van Cleft family were 
early settlers in Minisink Valley. His mother was a member of the Cooper family 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 965 

of. Blooming Grove. From 1855 to i860 he was employed in the hardware trade 
in New York City, and for two years following pursued the same business in 
Kansas City, Mo. In 1863 he returned to Newburgh and established his present 
hardware and agricultural implement business. Upon the organization of the 
Columbus Trust Company in 1892 he was chosen vice-president, and since 1896 has 
served as president of that institution. He was one of the original members of 
the board of trade and for a number of years was member of the consistory 
of the American Reformed Church. In 1869 he married Edwina Storey Smith, 
grand-daughter of Judge Storey. She died April, 1891. 

ISAAC VAN DUSER, the Pioneer of the Ramapo Pass, by Elizabeth Crissey 
Van Duzer. — The beautiful country along the Ramapo River between Sloatsburg 
and Sufifern, is well known to Orange County people. It is wild and beautiful still, 
though the mills have been running there more than a century, and the Erie trains 
through the valley for sixty-six years. 

Nearly two hundred years, with their attendant changes, have passed over that 
region since Isaac Van Duser — the first white man to settle in the Ramapo Pass — 
came from Tappan and located with his family in the "Throat of the Clofif," as 
that narrow part of the valley was then called. 

He bought four hundred acres that John Van Blarcum had recently purchased 
of the Indians, and there built his homestead. East and west rose the mountains 
densely wooded, and the narrow valley was filled with the music of the little river. 
Here, he lived in the midst of the forest, the Indians his only neighbors, and began 
his work of opening up the Pass, which proved to be the natural entrance to the 
Orange County of to-day. 

His son, Isaac, Jr., and his wife, were living there in 1724. Isaac, Jr., afterward 
purchased the Van Gelder tract which joined the Van Duser land, and extended 
northward. When he came in possession of his father's land, he became owner 
of the whole valley from the Romopock line below Ramapo to Stony Brook, north 
of Sloatsburg. 

He was living there with a large family just at the time the present Orange 
County was being settled, principally by people from Southern Orange County — 
now Rockland. As the young settlers came up through the Pass, Isaac Van Duser 
was able to supply each one with a wife until his ten daughters were all married. 
They were the maternal ancestors of many old Orange County families. 

Wieberch married Benjamin Dcmarest. Agnes married Samuel Sidman, to 
whom Isaac Van Duzer deeded the original homestead — the Van Blarcum tract. 
The valley was called "Sidman's Pass" during the Revolution, and the fortifica- 
tions there — "The Post at Sidman's." 

Marietje married Steven Sloat, to whom Isaac transferred the Van Colder tract, 
upon which they founded Sloatsburg. Their son John was killed in the Revolu- 
tion. His son, John Drake Sloat, was Rear Admiral of the United States Navy. 
He took possession of the territory now called California for the United States 
at the beginning of the Mexican War. Plis monument stands at Monterey. 



966 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Leah married a Galloway and located further up the Pass. Autie married Major 
Zachariah DuBois (Woodhull's Regiment). Mary was the wife of Lieutenant 
William Roe (same regiment). Martha married Mr. Rose. Elizabeth, a LaRoy, 
Catherine an exiled Polish nobleman named Zobrisky, and Jane married Mr. 
Williams. 

Before 1748 Isaac Van Duser bought the Andrew Nicolls patent at Cornwall, 
and afterward moved there with his three sons, Isaac, Jr., Tjerck and Christopher. 
In 1772 he divided this land equally among the three. The whole family appear 
to have been living on the patent during the Revolution. Erskine's map, made for 
General Washington's use, shows the location of Van Duzer's house at Cornwall. 
His son, Isaac, Jr., had sons, Isaac 3rd, Adolphus and Benjamin. Alexander Van 
Duser, of Gardiner, N. Y., is a descendant of Isaac 3rd, and Letitia Mills. Adol- 
phus moved to Sullivan County. Benjamin has descendants near Cornwall. 

Tjerck had wife Catherine. His family has not been traced. Christopher was 
captain in Colonel Woodhull's Cornwall Regiment. He was commissioned Sep- 
tember, 177s, and served all through the war. He was at Fort Mbntgomery at 
different times, served at Haverstraw, Ramapo and in the Jerseys, at New Wind- 
sor, Butter Hill, Nicolls Point and eight weeks at Fishkill. He was stationed at 
West Point immediately after Arnold's treason was discovered. He was described 
by his neighbors as "an ardent, zealous Whig." He married first Juliana Strong, 
who left one child, the wife of Jacob Mandeville. Their daughter married first 
Nathaniel DuBois Woodhull, second Joseph Young. 

Captain Van Duzer married second Juliana Tusten, sister of Lieutenant-Colonel 
Tusten, who was killed at Minisink. In 1807 they moved to Warwick, having pur- 
chased the farm where the fourth generation of their descendants now live. 

They had sons Isaac, Benjamin Tusten, William, John and Selah and six daugh- 
ters, Elizabeth, Ann, Mary and Susan were the wives of Selah Reeve, Nathan 
Wescott, Ebenezer Crissey and John Dolson, respectively. 

Christopher's son Isaac was prominent in business at Cornwall. Afterward 
located in Warwick, where his grand-daughter, Mary Burt, now lives. His 
daughter Juliette, married Colonel Wheeler. He had a son, Isaac Reve, a member 
of the Legislature, and a very gifted lawyer of Goshen. J. W. Gott, of that place, is 
his descendant. Benjamin has no descendants living. William moved to Chemung 
County and left a large family. John was a member of the Legislature. He had 
sons Joseph Benedict, of Bellvale ; Charles Reeve, of Warwick, and James, whose 
descendants live in Illinois. Of John's seven daughters two died A'oung. Lanor 
died unmarried. Harriet Fancher, Mary LaZear and Nancy Fish left descendants 
in Dundee, N. Y. Julia Ann married Abner Benedict, of Warwick. 

Selah was a banker in New York. He left a large family. The late S. R. Van 
Duzer, of Newburgh, was one of his sons. 

The farm of Captain Christopher Van Duzer at Warwick, descending from 
father to son, has been the home of Christopher, John, Charles Reeve and George 
Morehouse (the present owner), who Has a son, Christopher Tusten. At this old 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 967 

homestead on April 25, 1907, was celebrated the one hundredtli anniversary of 
the founding of the Van Duzer family in Warwick. 

Shadrack Van Duzer lived in Cornwall during the Revolution. His two sons, 
Isaac and Henry, served in Captain Van Duzer's company. Henry's grandson, 
'Squire Henry Van Duzer, of Cornwall, still lives on a part of the land bought by 
Isaac Van Duzer in 1748, and has the original patent in his possession. 

Shadrack is supposed to be a descendant of Isaac of Ramapo, though no proof 
can as yet be found. On the other hand, several grandchildren of his son Isaac, 
who married Martha Tusten and moved to Goshen, claim that Shadrack came 
from Holland when his son Isaac was twelve years of age, that is, 176". This may 
be true, as'no record of him in Cornwall or elsewhere has been found prior to that 
date, though I have searched for it during the past ten years and will now leave 
the question to his descendants, who are very numerous in Orange County, to de- 
termine for themselves. 

Isaac Van Duzer, of Ramapo, was a grandson of Abraham Pietersen Van 
Deursen, the original ancestor of the Van Dusen and Van Duzer families in 
America. We find him mentioned first in a Holland document complaining of the 
English, which says : "They encroach westerly below Cape Cod, on the Dutch 
limits, absorbing Rhode Island and Martin's Vineyard, howbeit possession had 
been taken thereof for this Company in 1636 by Abraham Pietersen Van Deursen." 

He was the miller of Xew Amsterdam in 1638, one of the "Twelve Men" in 1641, 
was afterward elected one of the "Eight Men,' and was also a Burgher. In 1664 
he took the oath of Allegiance to England. 

HENRY VAN DUZER, justice of the peace of the town of Cornwall, resides 
on a farm near Cornwall Station. Mr. Van Duzer is a descendant of one of 
Orange County's old and prominent families. His great grandfather, Isaac Van 
Duzer, secured the patent to the homestead farm in Cornwall in 1735. This docu- 
ment is in the possession of Henry Van Duzer, who has been identified with public 
affairs in his native town for thirty-five years. He was born in 1835 and educated 
at public and private schools. His father, John S. Van Duzer, died in 1830 and 
Henry learned the trade of piano maker, which he followed for a number of years 
both in this section and in the west. He has served thirty years as justice of the 
peace; three years justice of sessions; thirteen years as U. S. loan commissioner, 
and one term as supervisor. In i860 he married Miss Catherine Cox and three 
children were born to them; his son, Henry J., is agent for the Erie Railroad at 
Cornwall Station. 

JAMES HARRY VAN DUZER, son of Isaac Van Duzer and Mary Case, was 
born in the town of Chester, N. Y., December 12, 1839. At the age of eighteen he 
entered as clerk in a general store with the firm of Woodhull and Vandervort at 
the corner store, Warwick, N. Y. ; he became a member of that firm in 1864; he 
succeeded to the business in 1873, continuing until 1883 ; in 1884 he engaged in the 
wholesale hardware business at Newburgh, X. Y. ; in 1895 William E. Sayer and 



968 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

F. Clinton Van Duzer (his son) became members of the firm, and it is known as 
J. H. Van Duzer & Co. He was married to Sarah A. Taylor December 20, 1865. 
daughter of Isaac Taylor and Margaret Smith, Warwick, N. Y. Their children 
are Ella T. (deceased), F. Clinton and Marie L., wife of Thomas Welling. 

DR. SOLOMON VAN ETTEN, one of the most prominent physicians and 
surgeons in the county, was born in the town of Deer Park, Orange County, N. Y., 
July 30, 1829. He was the son of Levi Van Etten and Eleanor Carpenter. 

The family was of Dutch descent and the doctor was of the eighth generation 
in the direct line, from Jacob Van Etten, who came from North Brabant, Holland, 
about 1656, and located at Wiltwyck, now Kingston, N. Y. He grew up on the 
farm, attended the district school, and later the Farmers' Hall Academy at Goshen, 
and was graduated from the Albany Medical College, June 12, 1855. 

Locating in Port Jervis, he soon acquired a fine practice, but when the Civil War 
broke out the traditions of the family and the staunch loyalty and patriotism 
which had been its characteristic for generations would not permit him tO'Stay 
at home. 

His two grandfathers, Levi Van Etten and Benjamin Carpenter, served in the 
Third Orange County Regiment in the Revolution. His great-grandfather, An- 
thony Van Etten, was so active a patriot that he was killed by Tories in 1778. His 
great-grandfather, Johannes Decker, was the famous Major Decker who protected 
the frontier of the southern part of the State throughout the Revolution, and his 
grandmother, Margaret Decker, was one of the children at school in the old log 
schoolhouse, near the farm house where the doctor was born, on that July day 
when Brandt surprised them at their lessons and killed and scalped their teacher. 
He entered the service September 3, 1861, as surgeon of the Fifty-sixth Regiment 
of New York Volunteers. He rose step by step from regimental surgeon to the 
rank of division surgeon of the Third Division of the Eighteenth Army Corps. 
After the war he returned to Port Jervis. 

On September 7, 1865, he was united in marriage with Maria, daughter of 
Nathan Bristol, of Waverly, N. Y. 

Two children were born of this union, Dr. Nathan B. Van Etten, a practicing 
physician in New York City, and Eleanor B. Van Etten, who resides with her 
mother in Port Jervis. 

Dr. Van Etten died suddenly at his home in Port Jervis, July 7, 1894, from 
concussion of the brain, the result of a fall. 

CHARAC J. VAN INWEGAN was born April 14, 1851, in the town of Deer 
Park. He has always followed merchandising, succeeding to the business which 
his father established in Huguenot, which he still carries on. In 1880 he 
opened a store in Port Jervis in connection with his brother, John C, who took 
charge of the latter establishment. Charac J. has dealt extensively in wood and 
each season has shipped thousands of cords to New York. For a time he owned 
the Huguenot Springs Hotel, and he owns two store buildings in Port Jervis, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 969 

N. Y. He has been twice married. His first wife was Catherine, daughter of 
Isaac and Catherine (Rose) Cuddeback, and after her death he married Ellen S., 
daughter of Peter P. Swartwout. By the first union one son was born, Willard. 
The children of the second marriage are Lyman C, Harold B., Allen J. and Ralph 
S. Mr. Van Inwegan is a member of the Masonic Lodge of Port Jcrvis. In 
politics he is a democrat and has served as postmaster at Huguenot for some years 
His wife is a member of the Reformed Church. 

HENRY NEWTON VAN KEUREN, son of Henry L. md Eleanor (Crawford) 
Van Keuren, was born in the town of Shawangunk, Ulster County, N. Y., in 1842. 
Mr. Van Keuren was educated at the district schools of his native place, and at the 
age of twenty-seven engaged in business in the town of Crawford, Orange 
County. 

In 1869 Mr- Van Keuren married Helen, only daughter of John Hill, Jr. She 
died in 1870. In 1873 he married Miss Catherine Ronk, of the town of Crawford, 
who died in Newburgh in 1888. Mr. Van Keuren acquired a competency in busi- 
ness and lived for many years in retirement in Xewburgh. He was fond of travel 
and visited all the countries of Europe, Egypt and the Holy Land, and made a 
tour around the world in 1897-1898. He died in Germany in 1907. 

Mr. Van Keuren's ancestors came from Holland in 1864, and were among the 
early settlers of New York. The homestead in Ulster Count>', in which four 
generations were born, was a house of shelter and refuge in the days of contests 
with the Indians. 

CLARENCE C. VAN NESS was born in Edenville, Orange County, March 28, 
1869, and after finishing his schooling was in the meat business for six years, and 
then engaged in the milk business. He has become a breeder of fine horses. His 
father, John J. Van Ness, died in 1891, aged seventy-three, and his mother, whose 
maiden name was Anna A. Barrett, died in 1904, aged sixty-three. The father had 
been a hotel man in Edenville twenty-seven years. A daughter, Mamie E., is the 
wife of John F. Knapp, of Newark, N. J. 

JOHN W. VAN NESS was born in Bcllvale, Orange County, October 29, 1852; 
was educated in the district school, and then assisted his fjfther, Peter Van Ness, 
who was a wheelwright until he died in 1S84, when John continued the business. For 
eight years he was a partner of John Hazcn in the Hotel Windemere at Greenwood 
Lake, and was postmaster four years by appointment of President Harrison. 
Hazen & Van Ness purchased George E. Reed's general store in WarwicK ana con- 
tinued it four years. He then came to Warwick and leased the Dcmorest Stables, 
and after seven years, in 1900, bought the Campbell and Longwell Stables with five 
horses and is now running them with forty-five horses and at the same time inter- 
esting himself in agricultural pursuits. On December 9. 1880, he married Miss 
Mary A. Hazen, of Greenwood Lake. They have one chihl, Maud, born September 



970 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

23, 1881, who is at home. Mr. Van Ness was collector of the town of "Warwick 
one year. 

WILLIAM VAN NESS was born April 26, 1836, at Pompton, N. J. His father 
was Peter S. and mother Eliza Jane (Brown) Van Ness. There were twelve 
children in his parents' family. William came with his parents to Warwick, this 
county, when three years of age. The father was a farmer and took an interest 
in matters pertaining to the democratic party. He acquired his early educa- 
tion at the district school and Warwick Academy. At an early age he learned 
the butchers' trade and followed the business for thirty-two years. He married 
Miss Jane Stidworthy, of Warwick. She was of English parentage and came to 
America with her parents when three years old. There were two children born 
to this union, Emma B., wife of Harry J. Bogart, of Passaic, N. J., and Sarah 
Ann, wife of Burt Edsall, of Goshen. In 1900 Mr. Van Ness sold his business 
and removed to Goshen, where he purchased the Orange Hotel, which he still con- 
ducts. 

SAMUEL C. VAN VLIET, JR., was born in the town of Blooming Grove, De- 
cember 29, 1833, and reared upon a farm until seventeen years of age. Subsequently 
he was a clerk and later was in business in a general store under the firm name of 
Seaman & Van Vliet, of Monroe. In March, 1861, he came to Oxford Depot and 
has been engaged in merchandising, being the principal business man of the vicinity. 
On December 29, 1858, Mr. Van Vliet married Miss Euphenia Jenkins, of Monroe, 
the youngest daughter of Ira and Millie (Smith) Jenkins. Two daughters have 
been born to them. Elsie J. is the wife of S. G. Lent and has one child, Helen 
Grace, now the wife of William H. Smith, of Chester. Effie is the wife of Fred 
L. Conklin, of Chester, N. Y. The Van Vliet family originated in Holland. Po- 
litically Mr. Van Vliet is a republican. For thirty years he was postmaster and is 
now agent for the Erie Railroad. From 1868 to 1872 he was a member of the board 
of supervisors of Orange County, and for twenty years an elder of the Presby- 
terian Church of Monroe. 

DR. EDWIN R. VARCOE, one of the leading dentists of Orange County, 
located at Goshen, was born near Honesdale, Pa., November 4, 1850. His parents, 
Francis and Mary (Hocken) Varcoe, were natives of England and descendants 
of a long line of substantial English ancestry. Both were educated near Liskeard, 
in the county of Cornwall, where they grew to maturity and were married in 1846. 
They came to America on their wedding tour, settling in Honesdale, Pa. They 
engaged in farming pursuits, and remained there until their death, the father 
dying in 1895 and the mother in 1865. Both were devoted members of the Method- 
ist Episcopal Church. Their eight children, three sons and five daughters, are all 
living. 

The father of Francis Varcoe, Samuel Varcoe, was an English gentleman and 
a landed proprietor in the county of Cornwall. The maternal grandfather of 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 971 

Francis Varcoe was Rev. Charles Hicks, of the Church of England. One of 
Samuel's sons, Rev. R. Varcoe, came to this country and filled several important 
charges in the Methodist Episcopal Church in Pennsylvania, where he died. The 
father of Mrs. Varcoe was Rev. Edward Hocken, a minister of the Church of 
England, who for fifty years filled important pulpits in his native land. He reared 
a family of seven children, of whom Edward, Jr., became a clergyman under the 
celebrated John Wesley in the Methodist Church, during the pioneer era of that 
organization. 

The great-grandfather of our subject on the maternal side was Rev. William 
Geake, of the Church of England. The children of Francis and Mary Varcoe are 
as follows: Lavenia, wife of Isaiah Scudder, of Middletown, N. Y., died May, 27. 
1908; Sophia, widow of Ira S. Baxter, of Wallingford, Conn; Edwin R. ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Frank Sagendorph, of Jersey City, died February 22, 1896; Selina; 
Mrs. T. Edson Harding, of Howells, N. Y. ; William F., a practicing physician in 
New York City; Carrie, who married Herman Groffell, of Jersey City; and Charles 
W., a dentist of Walden, N. Y. 

In 1875 Francis Varcoe married for his second wife Mrs. Elizabeth (Onger) 
Glenn, and they had one daughter, Kittie, now the wife of Charles Webb., of 
Bethany, Pa. Politically Mr. Varcoe was a republican, and was a staunch Union 
man during the Civil War. He was identified with the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. He died September 6, 1895, aged eighty years, near Honesdale, Pa. 

The subject of this sketch, Dr. E. R. Varcoe, received his literary education in 
the schools of Wayne County and Wyoming Seminary at Kingston, Pa. At the 
age of twenty-one he began the study of his profession under Dr. J. W. Kesler, of 
Honesdale, Pa., with whom he remained for two years. He then practiced at dif- 
ferent places in Orange County for five years. In 1880 he was graduated from the 
Philadelphia Dental College, carrying off the highest honors of his class and re- 
ceiving the prize awarded, an S. S. White dental engine. In June, 1880, he estab- 
lished himself in practice in Goshen, where he has since remained. 

The doctor is a trustee and member of the Presbyterian Church of Goshen. He 
is also an honorary member of the Second District Dental Association, the Order 
of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Encampment of Patriarchs. In politics he 
is a republican. He has made several trips to Europe, visiting Scotland, Ireland, 
England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Mexico, Cuba and Sandwich Islands, besides 
traveling in all the States and Territories in this country. For the benefit of the 
church and charitable interests he has frequently lectured on his travels. 

HENRY O. VELTMAN, of the town of Mount Hope, was born December 31, 
1847, >n the town of Wallkill. His father Albert and mother Eunice (Howell) 
Veltman had ten children, seven girls and three boys. They are all living 
but one son. His father was a mason by trade. He attended the district school, 
where he acquired his education while assisting at home on the farm. He was 
in Jersey City, N. J., three years in the milk business and was engaged in teaming 
there for two years, when he returned to the farm. He married Miss Helen 



9/2 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

Kennedy, of Howells, Orange County. She is of Scotch descent and came to 
America when seventeen years of age. Mr. Veltman is a member of the Grange 
and a republican in politics; both he and his wife are members of the Otisville 
Methodist Church. 

MONTGOMERY H. VERNON was born April 7, 1846, in the town of 
Monroe, Orange County, N. Y. His parents were Elvin and Catherine Ver- 
non, and they had ten children. He was the ninth child, and he attended 
school at Satterleytown schoolhouse and Sugar Loaf, meanwhile working for his 
board. He worked on a farm until he was nineteen years of age, and then clerked 
for D. H. Roe, of Chester, one year, and Burchard & Smith nearly three years. He 
then engaged in the meat business at Washingtonville with W. H. Hallock. Mr. 
Vernon was united in marriage to Mary A. Goble, of Florida, December 20, 1870. 
To this union six children were born, two died in infancy. The other children 
are Russell M., attorney at Middletown, N. Y. ; Emma A., wife of Robert W. 
Anderson ; Sarah L., wife of Richard M. Ferries, an attorney of New York City, 
and George Herbert, residing at home. After Mr. Vernon's marriage he continued 
in the meat business and the manufacturing of brick for seventeen years, and in 
1888 he disposed of the meat business. He is a large shipper of onions to all parts 
of the United States. Mrs. Vernon died April 27, 1906. 

ANDREW K. WADE, of Walden, who conducts a stove and tinware establish- 
ment, was born at Montgomery in 1845, a son of Jabez P. and Susan (Millspaugh) 
Wade. This business was established by his brother, Joseph G. Wade, in 1857, who 
died in 1862. E. B. Tears continued the business until 1887, when our subject 
succeeded to it. Mr. Wade has served three terms as supervisor, and also justice 
of the peace and police justice. Politically he is a democrat, and a member of the 
Knights of Pythias. In 1879 he married Sarah Frances McVey. They have one 
daughter living, Frances Willard Wade. 

CHARLES D. WAIT, a leading and very successful business man of Mont- 
gomery, N. Y., is a descendant of one of Orange County's old and respected fami- 
lies. He is a son of Thomas and Mary (Mould) Wait, and was born at the Wait 
homestead in the town of Montgomery. In 1887 he erected the buildings he now 
occupies for business purposes, dealing extensively in flour, feed, coal, lumber and 
cattle, his cattle trade exceeding ten carloads monthly, which he markets in New 
York, while his trade in hay averages eighty carloads annually. Mr. Wait is a 
director in the Montgomery National Bank, and an elder of the Dutch Reformed 
Church. In June, 1897, he married Miss Eliza Seymour, of Walden, daughter of 
James Seymour. 

GEORGE W. WAIT, son of Thomas and Mary (Mould) Wait, was born at the 
homestead, where he has always resided, in 1853. This farm, which was the prop- 
erty of his grandfather, Samuel Wait, is situated some two miles east of Mont- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 973 

gomery village and comprises two hundred acres of improved and valuable land. 
Mr. Wait has been engaged in its cultivation since finishing his studies at the 
Montgomery schools, and is one of the more prosperous and progressive agricul- 
turists in the county. He is also an extensive dealer in cattle. He married Miss 
Cornelia, daughter of J. Egbert Kidd, a descendant of an old Orange County 
family. They have had two children, Charles D., Jr., who died at the age of 'five, 
and Helen Marguerite. Mr. Wait is a member of the Montgomery Grange. 

DR. WESLEY WAIT, surgeon dentist of Newburgh, N. Y., was born in the 
Wait homestead near the village of Montgomery, Orange County, May 15, 1861. 
He is a son of Thomas and Mary (Mould) Wait, and a grandson of Samuel Wait, 
who came from Somersetshire, England, in 182 1, and engaged in farming in 
Orange County. He married Miss Mary Welch before leaving his native land, and 
they became the parents of nine children, of whom Thomas w"as the fifth in order 
of birth. 

Dr. Wait was educated at Montgomery Academy and a New York preparatory 
school, and in 1881 entered the New York College of Dentistry. Eight months 
later he was appointed first assistant to Professor J. B. Littig. He graduated 
a year ahead of his class, and has practiced continuously in Newburgh since 1885, 
becoming identified with a number of local enterprises. 

From 1890 to 1893 Dr. Wait represented New York State in the National Asso- 
ciation of Inventors and Manufacturers and in 1891 he represented this Congres- 
sional District at the Patent Centennial at Washington, D. C, being the inventor 
and owner of several valuable inventions. 

In 1885 Dr. Wait married Emily S., daughter of General John A. Pawlins, chief 
of staff to General U. S. Grant, and ex-secretary of war. Mrs. Wait died March 
25, 1897, leaving a daughter Lucille R., now the wife of Mr. John Springstead Bull. 
Mr. Wait chose in 1905 Miss Annie E. Knapp, daughter of Samuel T. Knapp, of 
New York City, for his second wife. Their mansion is located at Grand avenue 
and North street, overlooking the Hudson. 

CHARLES N. WALTON, of ^fonroe, N. Y., who is engaged in the furniture 
and undertaking business, is a native of Pennsylvania and has resided in this 
village since 1901, when he purchased the business from J. T. Horrick. This busi- 
ness was originally established by Charles Maples. Mr. Walton is identified with 
many fraternal organizations, including the Masons, Odd Fellows and Knights of 
Pythias. He married Miss Alice Bond, also of Pennsylvania, and three children 
have been born to them, Raymond, Minnie and Russell. 

DR. GEORGE N. WARD, dentist of Waldcn, was born in the town of Craw- 
ford, Orange County, N. Y., a son of James and Elizabeth (Crans) Ward. He 
graduated from the Montgomery .-Academy in 1886 and acquired his dental educa- 
tion in the University of Maryland. He has practiced his profession in Walden 
since 1895. He married Miss Bradnack, of Middletown, and they have one 



974 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

daughter. Possessed of literary and historical inclinations, Dr. Ward has accu- 
mulated a valuable collection of books and has many relics of aboriginal and 
Revolutionary days. James Ward, Sr., his grandfather, was born in the town of 
Newburgh in 1797. In 1826 he purchased the farm in Crawford township, which 
has been the homestead for two generations. 

J. ERSKINE WARD, supervisor of the town of Crawford, has for many years 
been prominently identified with business and public affairs in this part of Oranga 
County. He was born in this township March 4, 1864, a son of James and Eliza- 
beth (Crans) Ward. His education was obtained at the schools of his native 
place and Middletown. In 1888 Mr. Ward engaged in the feed business at Thomp- 
son's Ridge, which he continued successfully for a period of ten years, when he 
sold the business and property to Messrs. Clark Bros. In 1898 he engaged in the 
hardware business at Pine Bush, in partnership with Mr. J. L. McKinney, dispos- 
ing of his interest to Mr. McKinney in 1904, and shortly thereafter established his 
present saw-mill, which gives employment to about fifteen men. In political be- 
lief Mr. Ward is a staunch democrat. In 1900 he was appointed supervisor of the 
town and elected to the office in 1901, and has been continuously re-elected to the 
present time. In January, 1908, he was chosen chairman of the board. Socially 
Mr. Ward is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Sons of the American Revolu- 
tion, Knights of Pythias, Maccabees and Grangers. 

CORNELIUS L. WARING was born at Balmville, a suburb of Newburgh, in 
1852. He read law with Judge Hirschberg, and was admitted to the bar in 1873. 
Later he formed a partnership with ex-District Attorney Russel Headley, which 
continued until 1878, when Mr. Waring was elected recorder of the city of New- 
burgh. He was re-elected in 1882 and again in 1886, retiring from office December 
31, 1890. He served as corporation counsel of the city of Newburgh continuously 
from 1892, resigning the office February, 1907. 

Mr. Waring is a director and attorney for many of Orange County's leading 
corporations. He is a member of the City Club, Powelton Club and Republican 
Club of the city of New York. Mr. Waring is unmarried and resides at the 
Palatine Hotel. 

WILLIAM SAYER WATKINS was born on the homestead farm in the town 
of Hamptonburgh, August 3, 1820, and the date of his death was November 7, 
1884. He was an eaiergetic farmer, and lived for his neighbors as well as himself, 
winning their respect and esteem by his kindly and thoughtful interest in their 
welfare. He married Miss Emma Monell, of Hamptonburgh, September 15, 1859, 
and their three children are all living. Juliana B. was born July 12, i860, and is the 
wife of B. Seward Carr, of Chicago; William Sayer, born November 7, 1866, lives 
on the homestead; John Evans, born December 25, 1867, married Anna Eliza 
Blake, March 9, 1905, and they have two daughters, Elizabeth, who was born Jan- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 975 

uary 2, 1906, and Emma Adeline, born October I, 1907. The house on the home- 
stead was burned in 1886, and rebuilt in 1887. 

J. N. WEED was born in the hamlet of Gardnertown, town of Newburgh, No- 
vember 20, 1825. He has always resided in the town, except when away at school. 
On April i, 1833, the family moved from Orange Lake to North Newburgh on 
the west bank of the Hudson River, three and one-half miles north of the village 
of Newburgh. It was found to be a beautiful location, b?ck from a fine sandy 
beach just far enough to escape the highest tides, with a bay extending seven or 
eight miles in front bounded by the mountains of the Highlands. April I, 1833, 
was one of the loveliest days imaginable and the house had been reached by a 
road coming down from a hill, five hundred feet high, in numerous zig-zags. 
Such hills were new to the life of our subject, as also was the river bay and the 
river craft and naturally made an impression. 

This continued to be the home of Mr. Weed until May, 1845, when he came to 
the village as a clerk of the Highland Bank. He left that bank, of which he was 
then teller, in January, 1852, having been appointed cashier of the Quassaick Bank, 
then organizing. Mr. Weed was cashier of the latter bank during its entire his- 
tory and of the Quassaick National Bank of Newburgh, into which it was con- 
verted May I, 1865, until February 4, 1895, when he was elected president and now 
holds that position. 

Tlie principal business events of his life liave been given heretofore in the local 
histories. There is, however, a side to the life of this man but little known, and 
we propose to say something about it. 

As an amateur geologist he has thoroughly explored the territory about New- 
burgh, a region rich in glacial and drift phenomena. 

Scattered over its surface are huge blue sandstone boulders, some of extraor- 
dinary size and sure to attract the attention of even the unobserving. They are 
generally, but not always, scattered in groups. 

At the time of the publication of the Natural History of New York, in 1843, 
these and other boulders were supposed to have been transported from their source 
to their present place in icebergs, the glacial theorj' at that time being undreamed 
of. Now it can safely be declared established and readily explains many things in- 
volved in obscurity. 

The glacial markings in the Hudson River valley are found from the present 
surface of the water up to the mountain tops and afford an index of some of the 
conditions existing on the earth at that time. 

To illustrate: a surface now polished must have been a surface when the glacier 
did that work. There are glacial polishings very near Newliurgh at the river 
surface and they also are found on the top of the Palisades, a trap rock thrown up 
from below in a molten state at some remote period of the earth's history. How 
long ago cannot be told, but this can be confidently said, the" catastrophe of the 
Palisades antedated their being polished by the ice of the Great Glacier. The pol- 
ished slate rocks at the surface o'f the present river show that the river valley 



976 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

then existed and that the Palisades were then, also, a geological feature of the 
region, as the footprints of the same artisan is left on both. 

Our subject was attracted by the size and numbers of these blue stone boulders 
about Newburgh, and persevered in an attempt to ascertain from whence they 
came until success finally crowned his efforts with the sure conclusion that their 
source was the Marlborough Mountains, and that the explanation of their being 
found in groups was that they came from the precipitous cliffs of the mountains 
from which they were detached by the action of frost and gravity, and falling 
upon the ice were slowly transported by it until the ice- melted and dropped its 
burden at the places where now found. The same natural forces continuing to 
act, at long intervals the falls from the cliffs would recur, the rocks take up their 
journey in the moving ice and find their resting place where the ice melted, and 
the direction and distance of these groups from the source would afford some clue 
to the movements of the glacier itself. 

Some of these boulders are found as far south as Central Valley, and some 
high up on the slopes of the Cornwall Highlands, as high even as one thousand 
feet. Two professional geologists have gone over this ground with Mr. Weed and 
confirmed his conclusions. The basement walls of the Imperial Flats in South 
street and the stone wall built by B. Franklin Clark on the east side of the high- 
way to Woodlawn Cemetery are of big boulder origin. Specimens of other drift 
rocks have been found near Newburgh and traced to their source as far north as 
fifty miles. 

A more interesting subject, however, to Mr. Weed, is the Aurora Borealis. In 
the cold winter of 183?, a chum of his brother was visiting at the house and in the 
early part of the evening had started for home, but almost immediately came run- 
ning back and in a terrified manner declared "Granny Theall's barn is on fire !" 
The entire household rushed to the door and confronted a scene that was in- 
deed alarming. The landscape was covered with snow, the snow was as red as 
blood and the air filled with flam.es. Thd brother and his chum ran for half a mile 
toward Granny Theall's barn to find when it came into view that it was not the 
barn but the world that was on fire, at least that was the impression of most of 
the persons who saw this extraordinary display of the Aurora Borealis, the flames 
seemed so real and the danger so imminent. It made such an impression on Mr. 
Weed that ever since he has been a student and observer of the phenomenon. 

During the sun spot maximum of 1868-1873 the Aurora occurred so frequently 
that in May, 1871, he resolved to keep a close nightly watch and record of his ob- 
servations, and this he kept up for seven years. 

In the first four months of observation forty-four Auroras were seen by Mr. 
Weed. The whole number of days on which Auroras were seen in the whole 
United States other than Newburgh was sixty-eight, and the largest number re- 
ported from any one place was twenty-five, from Duluth ; followed by seventeen 
from Chicago, sixteen from Marquette, fifteen from Boston, fourteen from Gr?r ' 
Haven, fourteen from Oswego, twelve from Davenport, ten from Buffalo, ten froi. 
Burlington, nine from Detroit, eight from Rochester, nine from St. Paul, seven 



BIOGRArillCAL. 977 

from Mount Washington, six from Cleveland, six from Milwaukee, six from 
Toledo, three from Indianapolis, New London and Portland, Me., each, two from 
New York, and one each from Cape May, Cheyenne, F.scanaba, Leavenworth, San 
Francisco, St. Louis, Washington, D. C, and Wilmington. 

Special atterrtion is called to the number reported at New York, only sixty 
miles south of Newburgh, due in part no doubt to the artificial lights of the great 
city. 

One hundred years ago auroras were regarded as most abundant near the 
poles, and as very rare in our latitude, but we now know that they are most bril- 
liant and probably most numerous in the medial zones between the poles and the 
equator, that is in the cones of the earth having the greatest diurnal range of 
temperature, say, in the temperate zones on their polar sides. 

Mr. Weed has been led by his observations to believe that the phenomenon is 
purely meteorological. In support of this view he has witnessed many a time the 
aurora on the top of the clouds, and in one instance on the top of a detached 
rain-cloud going southeast, the existence of which was brought to his attention by 
the rain falling upon him. It was then noticed that the cloud was surmounted by 
a fine display of auroral streamers physically connected with it and directed to- 
ward the coronal point. 

The three features, cloud, rain and streamers, kept on together to the horizon, 
affording the best possible conditions for establishing their physical connection. 
In coimcction with this there occurred another remarkable appearance and standing 
alone among his many cloud observations. 

When the auroral rain-cloud reached the mountains, on the area ivhcrc the 
rain fell the mountains were covered by an exceedingly brilliant white fog blanket, 
conforming to all the irregular forms of the slopes and passing when the cloud 
passed. During the same evening a little later heavy showers occurred, the clouds 
going in the same direction, and in the inter-cloud spaces auroral streamers were 
abundant, but the openings were not large enough to determine their physical con- 
nection with the clouds, but taken in connection with the preceding cloud there 
can hardly be a doubt but that the same relation existed between the rain, cloud 
and streamers. 

On two different occasions a gleam of lightning appeared in the middle of the 
diirk segment north, half way between the horizon and the crown of the segment, 
and in both cases, instantly, there rose from that identical spot a single fine 
auroral streamer. The apparent physical connection in these two cases is sup- 
ported by the fact that the streamers usually have their origin in the arch of light 
surmounting the dark segment; that they do not ordinal ily appear singly even 
there, and that in a long experience our observer does not remember ever having 
seen a single lonely streamer originate in the dark-segment. Quite frequently 
'^"«heet lightning is seen in the south with an aurora in the north, and sometimes 
^"both are seen together in the north, but they never seemed physically connected, 
except in tluse two instances. The fact that both of tlic>e gleanis bad the same 



9/8 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

position in the dark-segment, and were both instantly followed by the rare eruption 
of a single streamer would seem to remove the phenomenon from the possibility of 
having been a coincidence. 

On one occasion during a great aurora which lasted the whole night and out 
into the full twilight of the morning, another observation was made tending to 
show kinship of the aurora with meteorology. 

First, let us mention that the crowning glory of the aurora and its highest point 
is regarded as the corona, a point just south of the zenith toward which all of the 
streamers converge when the aurora has passed further to the south. Several 
times the corona formed under the clouds during the night of this great exhibi- 
tion, a singular feature of the phenomenon being the invisibility of the clouds 
except when illuminated by the light of the corona. The clouds were cirro- 
stratus going rapidh' southeast. They were specially looked for at other times, 
but could not be seen. Does not this prove that the whole of a first-class aurora 
was within the cloud-bearing regions of the atmosphere? Its highest part was 
below the clouds, and therefore it was below the clouds in its entirety. It was a 
great aurora, as shown by the repeated formation of the corona. It was a great 
aurora also because it continued through the entire night into the morning twi- 
light and it suggests a meteorological origin. 

Another appearance occurring occasionally during an aurora is the "Luminous 
White Cloud Band" crossing the sky from east to west, cutting the hori- 
zon about east and some north of west, and when fully formed crossing the 
meridian near the coronal point. Our observer has seen this arch a number of 
times and regards it as one of the most instructive features of the aurora. Some 
observers have doubted its connection with the Aurora Borealis, but Mr. Weed 
does not share in this doubt, he having, on April 13, 187 1, witnessed its entire 
formation, and having seen the most convincing evidence of its connection with 
the aurora. This is what he saw : At 10 p. M. a dark segment north by east 
crowned with the ordinary auroral arc of light and with streamers above this ; in 
other words, an Aurora Borealis. Then another segment of seventy degrees alti- 
tude of the most fascinating, bright, attractize luminosity, bounded by a perfectly 
sharp outline. The sky was cloudless throughout, and south of this line, of normal 
hue. The perfection of the line of demarkation between the normal and auroral 
sky was a most extraordinary thing, and it teaches this, that the aurora had a 
clearly defined and definite border on its advancing side. Then, in this cloudless 
sky, streamers-like cloudlets began to form on the upper sid€ of this line in the 
normal sky at both the east and west horizon, rapidly succeeded by others until 
they met on or near the meridian completing a white cloud band. The base of 
these cloud-streamers blended together on the curved line and were pointed above 
and directed toward the coronal point of the aurora. After the band was com- 
pleted it was noticed that it was moving south and this motion continued until it 
came to rest at the star Delta Leonis in the region of the coronal point of the ordi- 
nary auroral exhibitions. As the cloud arch moved south from its initial point it 
brightened into an intense luminosity, was much agitated internally, and showed 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 979 

a motion to the west, as it alii.'uys dues, and, in dissolving, showed a wavelet struc- 
ture and cloudlike aspect. 

Half of the journey of the band was made before the line separating the base 
of the cloud-arch and the auroral sky was in the least disturbed. 

That this cloud arch formed on and moved ivitlt the luminous auroral segment 
on its journey and rested at the coronal point proves it to be auroral, and the 
formation of this luminous cloud in contact with the aurora, in an otherwise cloud- 
less sky, also proves the close relationship of the aurora and clouds and here bring 
in actual contact zi-ith cloud, that the aurora was in the cloud bearing region of the 
atmosphere, and again suggests a meteorological paternity for the Aurora Bo- 
realis. 



BENJAMIX WELCH, of Little York, Orange County, was born October 11, 
1H32. His parents were Gabriel and Eliza Welch, and they had nine children, three 
of whom are living — Benjamin: Susan, wife of Martin V. B. Horton, of Warwick, 
and Mary, wife of Edsal Stage. Benjamin learned the carpenter's trade when he 
was twenty years of age, and followed that occupation several years. He was 
connected with the Brown & Bailey Creameries of Amity and Edenville five years. 
On March i, 1871, he removed to Pleasant Valley and managed his father's farm 
until the death of the latter, when he became its owner. To this he added by pur- 
chase the Rynear Stage farm of one hundred and twenty-six acres, which in 
creases his lands to two hundred and sixty acres. He has a large dairy, and is 
one of the extensive peach growers in Orange County. 

July 9, 1863, he married Miss Mary E. Davenport, of Warwick. Their three 
children, all living, are George, born March 26, 1864; Olive, born October 8, 1865, 
and Daniel, born January 22, 1867. George was married to Mary F. Feagles, of 
Pine Island, December 31, 1904. The father was an Odd Fellow many years. His 
homestead farm has belonged to the family since 1844. 



AL.WSOX Y. WELLER, president of the Xewburgh Planing Mill Co., was 
born in the town of Crawford, Orange County, X. Y., in 1837. He was educated 
at Montgomery Academy, and in 1857 became a clerk in the store of the late A. 
K. Chandler, Xewburgh, where he remained until 1863, when the dry goods firm 
of Schoonmaker, Mills & Weller was formed. In 1886 Mr. Mills retired from the 
firm and the two remaining mcml)ers cnnfimied the business until January r, 1898. 
when the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Weller retiring from a mercantile career 
which had proved very successful. In 1899 Mr. Weller succeeded to the planing 
mill business of Thomas Shaw's Sons, which was established in 1837, and which 
is among the important industries of the city. Mr. Weller is a director of the 
National Bank of X^ewburgh, trustee of the Xewburgh Savings Bank, and inter- 
ested in many local enterprises. Much of his time has been occupied in managing 
the estate of his deceased brother. Joseph M Wollcr. 



98o THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

GEORGE S. WELLER, wholesale and retail coal dealer of Newburgh, was 
born in that city July, 1871, and is a son of A. Y. Weller. He graduated from the 
academy in 1888 and entered the employ of J. W. Matthews & Co., with whom 
he remained as shipping clerk until he started his present business in 1890. He is 
also president of the Highland Drug Co. Mr. Weller married Miss Constance, 
daughter of Rev. J. A. Farrar. 



JOSEPH H. WELLER, a prominent merchant of New York City, was born 
in Montgomery, Orange County, in 1846, and died at his home in New York, No- 
vember 14, 1886. At the age of fourteen he came to Newburgh to clerk in the dry 
goods firm of A. K. Chandler & Co. He went to New York in 1868 to become 
salesman for the firm of Wentz, Hartley & Co., afterward becoming a member 
of the firm of J. M. Wentz & Co. He remained a member of this firm until its 
dissolution. In 1879 he became member of the firm of Teflfts, Griswold & Co., and 
three years later of the new firm of Tefft, Weller & Co., wholesale dry goods mer- 
chants of New York. In 1876 Mr. Weller married Miss Frances Cronkright, of 
Elizabeth, N. J., whose death occurred five weeks prior to that of her husband. 
The loss of his beloved wife prostrated Mr. Weller with grief and contributed 
largely to his death. Mr. Weller is buried in the family plot at Woodlawn 
Cemetery. 

Mr. and Mrs. Weller left surviving four children, Lillian C. Weller, who is now 
the wife of Ralph S. Tompkins, of Fishkill-on-Hudson, N. Y. ; Edith M. Weller, 
who is the wife of Mr. Leonard M. Hills, of New York City; Alfred E. Weller, 
who resides in Newburgh, N. Y. ; and Joseph Francis Weller, who is a student at 
Yale University. 

The New York Dry Goods Chronicle of November 20, 1886, paid the following 
tribute to the memory of Mr. Weller: 

"His sudden death has created a profound feeling of grief and sorrow, not only 
throughout the dry goods trade in which he was so prominent, but to all com- 
mercial circles in this great commercial city. Seldom has a man so young been 
so universally mourned. He left his impress on the trade and commerce of the 
metropolis. He did this by the force of his abiHty, his energy and affability. He was 
a superior man in business and in the charm and gentleness of his manner. His 
judgment was sound, his executive ability rare, his energy wonderful, and his 
mastery of details complete. He possessed to an eminent degree the qualities of 
a great merchant. He was ambitious but not at the expense of others. He was 
helpful — never harmful. In his ascent to success and distinction he never crowded 
others from the path but rather encouraged them with sympathy and cheer. His 
crowning glory was his charity, his kindness. It shone in the family, in the social 
circle, at the store and elsewhere that business duties called him. 

"In the brief career of Joseph H. Weller there is the history of a busy life. It 
was not length of days that gave him opportunity to rise, it was what he did and 
how he did it that gave him prominence. He acted nobly and well his part." 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 981 

THEODORE A. WELLER, retired merchant of Middlelown, N. Y., was born 
in the town of Wallkill, Orange County. He was educated at the district schools 
and Middletown Academy. His dry goods career in IMiddletown began with a 
clerkship for the firm of Hayt & Adams. At the end of six years he purchased 
Mr. Hayt's interest, and the firm of Adams & Weller was formed in 1876, which 
continued ten years. This was succeeded by Weller, Demarest & Swayze, and in 
1888 the well-known store of Weller & Demarest was established, which continued 
until January, 1908, when Mr. Weller's health caused him to retire from active 
business. 

Mr. Weller is prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity, including 
membership in Hoffman Lodge, Midland Chapter, Cypress Commandery and 
Mecca Temple of the Mystic Shrine. 

FRANKLIN JOSEPH WELLES, an artist, for twenty-six years a resident of 
Greenwood Lake, has taken a deep interest in its legendary history. His wife 
Annie Estelle is a daughter of the late Professor Henri Appy, of Rochester, N. Y. 
the distinguished violinist and teacher, who at the age of twelve years graduated 
with the highest honors of any pupil from the Royal Conservatory of Amsterdam, 
Holland. He was given a laurel wreath decoration by William of Orange, grand- 
father of Wilhelmena, the presejit Queen of Holland. Some years after the death 
of Jean Appy, who conducted the King's Orchestra, his son Henri Appy succeeded 
to the position. He later came to America and played with Jenny Lind in concerts 
at Castle Garden, and the piano owned and used by her is now in the Welles home 
at Greenwood Lake. Professor Appy made many concert tours, conducted the 
orchestra at the old Niblo Garden in Newport, and taught at the Convent of the 
Sacred Heart. His wife was Annie Paine, a singer at Grjce Church, N. Y. He 
later moved to Rochester, N. Y., to conduct the Philharmonic Society there. Two 
children survive him, Annie E. and Ernest Frederic, professor of music in the 
college at Xenia and Granville, the latter of Newark, Ohio. He is a musician and 
teacher of marked ability and has purchased land and expects to reside perma- 
nently at Greenwood Lake. Henri Appy died in Rochester, N. Y., November 16, 
1903, at the age of seventy-nine. 

THOMAS WELLING was born April 28, 1864, on the homestead farm at War- 
wick, N. Y., which has been in the family continuously for one hundred and fifty- 
four years. His early education was obtained at the Warwick High School and 
Polytechnic Institute at Brooklyn, N. Y. After his schooling he returned to War- 
wick and took th« management of the farm where he has since resided. He car- 
ried Marie L. Van Duzer, of Warwick, May 17, 1893, daughter of James Harvey 
and Sarah (Taylor) Van Duzer. Their one son, Thomas, Jr., was born April 3, 
1896. Mr. Welling is a director of the First National Bank, second vice-president 
of the Warwick Savings Bank and is a trustee of the Warwick Cemetery Asso- 
ciation. He is identified with the Grange and attends the Dutch Reformed Church 
of Warwick. His father, Thomas Welling, was one of Warwick's representative 



982 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

men. He took an active interest in matters pertaining to the town, was a director 
in the First National Bank and the Warwick Savings Bank and served as presi- 
dent of the Warwick Valley Milk Association. He died November 9, 1898. 

JAMES EDWARD WELLS was born at Dingmans, Pa., in 1834, and died sud- 
denly at his home in Goshen, May 6, 1907. He married Miss Francis E., daughter 
of William S. and Sarah T. (Wood) Conkling. He removed from the farm to the 
village of Goshen in 1901, and lived a retired life until his death. For years he 
was a director and superintendent of grounds of the Orange County Agricultural 
Society, and was one of the first members of the Goshen Grange. He was agent 
in New York and Jersey City for the Orange County Farmers' Milk Company, 
a director of the Milk Exchange, and a partner in the firm of Wells & Stage, milk 
commission merchants, with offices in New York. In religion he was a Presby- 
terian and in politics a republican. In 1894 he was elected supervisor of Goshen, 
and was afterward re-elected twelve times, which shows the confidence which his 
townsmen reposed in him. He was the descendant of William Wells, who emi- 
grated to America in 1635, whose father was the Rev. William Wells, rector 
of St. Peter's Church at Norwich, England. His widow and two children survive 
him. The son is William A. Wells, of the Goshen National Bank, and the daughter 
Mrs. Cornelius Christie, of Watertown, N. Y. James Edward's father, Alfred, was 
a native of Goshen, and his mother, Lydia W. Nyce, was a Pennsylvanian. 

FREDERICK WILLIAM WENZEL, assistant postmaster, Newburgh, N. Y., 
is a son of George C. and Elizabeth A. Wenzel, and was born in Newburgh, Sep- 
tember 28, 1871. In 1890 he graduated with honors from the academy; and in 1895 
succeeded his father in the manufacture of plain and fancy boxes. He was ap- 
pointed to his present position March i, 1900. Mr. Wenzel was master of New- 
burgh Lodge No.. 309, F. and A. M., in 1899 and 1900; a trustee of Higliland 
Chapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; member of Ringold Hose Company No. i ; a member of 
St. George's Church, and the Alumni of Newburgh Free Academy. 

COLONEL CHARLES H. WEYGANT, ex-mayor of Newburgh, N. Y., was 
born in Cornwall, July 8, 1839, and educated at Ashland and Claverack Collegiate 
Institutes. In 1862 he was appointed senior captain of the 124th Regiment, N. Y. 
S. v., commanding Company A. He took active part in every general engagement 
of the Army of the Potomac. At the Battle of Gettysburg his superior officers were 
killed, leaving the regiment in command of Captain Weygant. He was shortly 
after commissioned major and July 2, 1863, was made lieutenant-colonel. In 1870 
Colonel Weygant was elected sheriff of Orange County, imd from 1878 to i88a 
he served as mayor of the city of Newburgh. In 1886, in company with Henry T. 
McCoun, he purchased and developed the property now known as Washington 
Heights, Newburgh. He is trustee of Trinity M. E. Church ; ex-commander of 
Ellis Post, G. A. R., and the author of the "History of the 124th Regimenit, N. Y. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 983 

S. V." Colonel Wcygant married Miss Charlotte Sackett in i^i6H and they have 
one daughter. 

FRAXK E. 'WEYGAXT, formerly of the firm of R. F. Wcygant's Sons, carriage 
manufacturers at Central Valley, N. Y., is a descendant of one of Orange County's 
old and prominent families. His father, Robert Francis Weygant, was the young- 
est child of Smith and Charity (Lamoreaux) Weygant. The original progenitor 
of the family in America was Michael, son of Rev. George Herman Weigand, a 
Lutheran minister of the Rhine Palatinate, who received a grant of land in 1708 
from Queen Anne embraced in the territory now covered by the city of Newburgh. 
In 1745 Tobias, son of Michael, bought an extensive tract of land near the present 
village of Highland Mills. A number of his descendants made their homes in this 
locality. 

Robert F. Weygant, who died September 3, 1902, established the carriage factory 
at Central Valley in 1867. This is now conducted by his sons, Fred and William. 
Frank E. Weygant is at present engaged in the automobile business at Ridge- 
wood, N. J. 

ANNIAS R. WHEELER was born August 31, 1846, in Craigville, town of 
Blooming Grove, and after his school education worked five years as a cotton 
spinner, then at farming, and then for the Erie Railroad. He tried to enlist six 
times as a soldier for the Civil War, the first time in 1861, and five times was 
rejected on account of his small size and light weight, but was finally mustered in 
August 22, 1864, in Company C, 56th N. Y. Infantry, when his weight was only 
ninety pounds. He served until wounded on December 29, 1864, at the crossing 
of the Tillafinny River, and was discharged in New York City, May 30, 1865. He 
then became a farmer until 1881, then was superintendent of the Middletown Ice 
Company five years, in 1887 was appointed a U. S. mail-carrier, and as such served 
the Government seven years, then was a traveling salesman two years, then com- 
missioner of highways for the town of Wallkill two years, and has since been in 
the insurance and brokerage business and a pension attorney in Middletown. Ho 
married Miss Hanna Oldfield, of Amity, town of Warwick, May 30, 1869, and they 
have had twelve children, only two boys and three girls surviving — Joel 
P)., president of the common council of Middletown; Harrison W., driver for the 
Middletown Phoenix Engine Company No. 4; Melissa, wife of D. H. Jones, of 
Rutherford, N. Y. ; Emma E., wife of John E. T. Clcgborn, of Wellsburg, N. Y. ; 
and Francis E., who lives with Joel B. Mr. Wheeler's father William was born m 
1815 in New York City, and was a contractor. His mother, whose maiden name 
was Sarah Braffett, was born in 1827, and died in 1896. 

ISAAC V. WHEELER.— Tlie Wheeler family is of English lineage, and 
originally embraced eleven brothers and three sisters, all of whom were early 
residents of Long Island, and at a later period removed to Orange County and 
made purchases of land. One of these brothers, Joel by name, is the progenitor of 



984 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the branch of the family from which Isaac V. is descended. Isaac V. Wheeler was 
a native of Warwick, and was born INIarch 4, 1823. He was the son of Colonel 
William F. and Juliet (Van Duzer) Wheeler, who were the parents of seven 
children. On the death of his father he became the possessor of the ancestral 
estate. He married Jmie 21, 1853, Miss Phoebe, daughter of Jesse Bull. He was 
the father of six children, Juliet V., Caroline B., William F., Jesse C, who died 
October 7, 1881 ; Anna M., married William A. Hayward and died September 16, 
1899 (two children survive her, Alice W. and William H. ; Frank A. died in in- 
fancy), and Alice. In politics Mr. Wheeler was a republican, having descended 
from whig ancestry. He was one of the original incorporators of the Warwick 
Valley Farmers' Milk Association, and of the Warwick Savings Bank. His death 
occurred April 9, 1876, in the fifty-third year of his age. 

Shortly after the marriage of her son William F., Mrs. Wheeler with her 
four daughters left the farm and moved to the home in Warwick village, now 
known as "The Columns," which she purchased in 1883, and at her death be- 
queathed to her daughters, Juliet V. and Caroline B. Mrs. Wheeler died January 
21, 1904, in the seventy-sixth year of her age. She was a devoted member of the 
Reformed Church. Her ancestor on the maternal side, Cornelius Board, came 
from Sussex, England, in 1730; on her father's side she was a descendant of the 
historic William Bull and Sarah Wells. 

WILLIAM F. WHEELER was born May 22, 1859. He is the son of Isaac V. 
and Phebe (Bull) Wheeler. He married May 22, 1882, Miss Tillie A. Wisner, of 
Chester, Orange County, N. Y., and is the father of six children, all of whom are 
living : William F. Wheeler, Jr., Charles V., Jesse I., Mary A., Roe W., and Ralph. 
The loss of his father at the age of sixteen necessitated his leaving school at an 
early age and assuming the responsibilities of the farm, on which he now resides. 
Mr. Wheeler is an ardent republican. F"ive generations have lived upon the estate 
now owned by him, it having been in the name for over one hundred years. The 
property, consisting of two hundred and eighty-five acres, is at present known as 
Peach Grove Farm. The house in which he and his family reside was built by 
Colonel William F. Wheeler in 1850. The barn on this place was raised on the 
Fourth of July, 1776, and was built by Samuel Ketchum, a Revolutionary soldier, 
w^io took part in the battle of White Plains. 

EDWARD WHITEHEAD, president of the Walden Knife Company, was born 
in Halifax, Yorkshire, England, a son of John and Sarah (Hill) Whitehead. His 
parents brought him to America when a child and at the age of fifteen years he 
learned the cutlery trade. 

When the Walden Knife Company was organized in 1870 as a co-operative con- 
cern, Mr. Whitehead was one of the eighteen members, and held the position of 
superintendent. In 1874 the company was incorporated, at which time William G. 
Gowdy was elected president and Edw^ard Whitehead secretary. In 1891 Mr. 
Whitehead was chosen president and the success of the industry since that time 



BIOGKAIMIICAL. 985 

has been rapid. It is ir.tercsting to note lliat he is the only member of the orig- 
inal company now identified with this establishment, and his official connection 
with the cutlery industry stretches over a longer period than any other man con- 
nected with the business at the present time in this Sheffield of America. 

Mr. Whitehead also occupies a prominent position in social and educational 
circles. In 1893 he was chosen school trustee and in 1896 president of the board of 
education, which position he held until his resignation in 1905. He is a director 
in the National Bank of Waldcn and of the Walden Savings Bank. Mr. White- 
head's success in life may, in brief, be attributed to perseverance, energy', keen- 
ness of judgment and constant devotion to an industry that has become one of the 
most important in Orange County. 

HENRY L. WHITFORD, of Johnson, N. Y., who is prominently identified 
with the extensive creamery industries of Orange County, is a native of Connecti- 
cut. As a young man he learned tlie machinist's trade. For twenty-four years 
he has been connected with the Borden enterprises. He came to Orange County 
in 1891, and in 1895 was appointed superintendent of the plant at Johnson. He is 
now traveling superintendent, in charge of nine creameries. 

Mr. Whitford married Miss Clara Root, and they are the parents of three sons 
and two daughters. Socially he is identified with the Masonic fraternity. 

JOEL WHITTEX, a highly respected citizen and retired merchant of Pine 
Bush, was born m the town of Crawford, October 8, 1818. A son of John and 
Mary (Moore) Whitten. He died at his residence in Pine Bush, April 29, 1904. 
Mr. Whitten remained on the home farm for a few years after his marriage to 
Miss M. Halstead Moore, of New York City, who died in 1872. He was for a 
time engaged in the mercantile business in New York City and also at Burling- 
ham with his brother, Isaiah, until the establishment of the Pine Bush store, 
where he continued with Isaiah until his retirement from business in 1880. He 
served as postmaster of the village a number of years. Mr. Whitten was a man 
of keen discernment, sound judgment and sterling integrity. A firm believer in 
the principles of the Democratic party, he took an active interest in politics, but 
declined to hold public office. He united with the New Prospect Church in 1844 
and organized the Sunday-school, in which he was active, either as a teacher or 
superintendent, for over forty years. 

September 14, l88r, Mr. Whitten married Miss A. Emily McGowan. of Pine 
Bush, N. Y., daughter of Benjamin and Priscilla ( 1-aulkner') McGowan, who 
survives him. 

SAMUEL R. WHITTEN, son of Francis and Ophelia (Rainey) Whitten, was 
born in the town of Crawford in 1S63. He was educated at the schools of Mid- 
dletown and the Troy Polytechnic Institute. In addition to conducting a general 
store for eleven years, he was engaged in the lumber business and management 
of a farm. In 1907 Mr. Whitten formed a partnership with R. T. Brown, under 



986 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

the firm name of Brown & Whitten, dealers in general merchandise, carrying on 
an extensive trade at Pine Bush, N. Y. 

GAVIN R. M. WILCOX, manufacturer, Newburgh, was born at Newtown 
Stewart, Whitonshire, Scotland, May i6, 1849. He is of English and Scotch ancestry, 
son of John and Jessie (McGregor) Wilcox, who came to America in 1866, settling 
in Newburgh. Here Gavin R. M. entered the employ of the Washington Iron 
Works, where he learned the trade of pattern maker and was later employed by 
the Severance Paper Machine Works ; in 1871 he engaged with the Newburgh 
Steam Engine Works, holding the position of foreman until 1883, when the firm 
of Coldwell, Wilcox & Co. was organized, manufacturers of light machinery, steam 
heating apparatus, etc. In I\Iay, 1890, the business was incorporated as Coldwell- 
Wilcox Co., with a capital stock of $53,000, and Mr. Wilcox became secretary and 
general manager, which position he still occupies. He served three years as presi- 
dent of the Business Men's Association, and in 1902 was appointed by Mayor 
Wilson a member of the board of water commissioners, and at the following elec- 
tion was elected to that office and re-elected in 1905 to another five-year term. In 
1872 he married Alice E., daughter of Henry O. Van Uuzer. Five children have 
been born to them. 

WALTER C. WILCOX was born at Wurtsboro, Sullivan County, N. Y. He is 
the son of Abraham and Marguerite (Lybolt) Wilcox, who had seven children. 
Mr. Wilcox obtained his early education at the district school at Wurtsboro and 
the high school at Monticello. After his schooling he moved to Middletown and 
identified himself with the Howell Hinchman Co., remaining with this firm about 
eight months. He afterward worked at the same business in Newark, N. J., for 
three years. In 1893 he removed to Middletown, and opened a grocery, which he 
has continued since. Mr. Wilcox was married to Miss Jennie Cameron, of Ellen- 
ville, N. Y., July 2, 1890. She is a direct descendant of the Cameron family of 
Scotland. To this union one child was born, Alonzo Potter Wilcox, born March 
31, 1891, associated with his father in business. In politics Mr. Wilcox is a demo- 
crat. His brother Charles is a resident of Middletown, N. Y. Henry, of Port 
Jervis, is identified with the Erie Railroad; Anna is the wife of A. Dedrick, of 
Port Jervis; Ella, wife of Harry Miller, of Jersey City; Ada, wife of James 
Monagham, of Jersey City. 

VICTOR AUDUBON WILDER, the only son of Mariner Ayers Wilder and 
Mary P. Smith, his wife, was born in Dennysville, Maine, on July 8, 1844, which 
was also the birthplace of his father. When but a few years old the son and his 
parents moved to Boston, Mass., where they lived until the outbreak of the Civil 
War. 

The son enlisted in the 44th Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers, and served 
until the end of the war. During his absence, his parents moved to Brooklyn, 
N. Y., and on receiving his discharge from the service the son joined them there. 



BIOGRArmCAL. 987 

where with the exception of about seven year*;, spent in the west engaged in mining 
operations, he lived until 1891, when he came to Warwick. 

In 1875 he married Miss Lilian Macdonald. They have one child, Donald Wilder, 
born in 1888. 

Mr. Wilder, in his early business experience, was engaged in Xew York in the 
foreign trade with South America and the West Indies, and later in railroad oper- 
ations in Mexico and in the United States, and also in coal and timber lands m 
West Virginia. 

In politics Mr. Wilder has always taken an active part. While a republican in 
his political convictions and affiliations, he has always been of an independent 
turn of mind. He was a candidate for state comptroller of New York on the Henry 
George ticket, and in 1904 for Congress on the Independence League ticket for the 
twentieth congressional district, being defeated by Colonel Thomas W. Bradley, of 
Walden. 

He was the president of the McKinley Club of Warwick, and the Central Re- 
publican Club during the McKinley campaign. He was largely instrumental in 
electing a republican supervisor of the town, the first one in a generation. He is 
a member of the Reformed Church of Warwick. 

SAMUEL WILKEX was born in Monahan, Ireland, February 4, 1844, and came 
to America with his mother and seven children, his father having died. They set- 
tled on Statcn Island, and some of the family are still there. Samuel came to 
Chester, Orange County, May 11, 1866, and the next year married Anna S. Salis- 
bury. Their children are Fred W., Albert E. and Melvin R. Mr. Wilken was a 
partner of Charles Christ sixteen years. When he disposed of his interest in the 
business he started a blacksmith shop, with a carriage repository and accessories. 
He has been a town officer several times, and is a member of Standard Lodge No. 
711, of Chester, as are also his sons Fred and Albert, and Melvin R., the third son, 
is connected with the Standard Milling Company of Xew York. 

JOSEPH M. WILKIX, who was elected special surrogate of Orange County 
in 1904 and re-elected in 1907, is a son of the late Joseph M. and Catherine 
(Copley) Wilkin. He was born in the town of Montgomery in 1878. After grad- 
uating from the Montgomery Academy he read law with his father for one year, 
and then entered the law office of Senator John C. R. Taylor, Middletown, N. Y., 
where he remained three years. He was admitted to the bar in 1899, and con- 
ducts his law office in Montgomery village. Detailed reference to his father ap- 
pears in the chapter on the Bench and Bar in this history. 

JOXATn.\X D. WILSOX, JR., assistant district attorney of Orange County, is 
a son of ex-Mayor J. D. W^ilson. He was born in Newburgh in 1875 and gradu- 
ated from Columbia University with the degree of A.B., 1898. He attended the 
Xew York Law School, and was admitted to the bar in 1900. Mr. Wilson has since 
practiced in Xewburgh. He has always taken an active interest in the welfare 



988 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

of the republican party and began the duties of his present office January, 1907. 
He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and local social organizations, including 
the City Club. He married Miss Edith Van Buren, of this city. 

WARD WINFIELD, editor and proprietor of the Walden Herald, was born in 
Montgomery in 1868 and educated at the Academy of his native place. He learned 
the printer's trade in the office of his father, Lester Winfield, who conducted the 
Montgomery Republican from 1864 to 1890. The paper then passed into the hands 
Ward Winfield, who continued it until 1900, when he disposed of the plant and 
became manager of the Walden Herald for John ¥. Lousdale for a period of three 
years, purchasing the business Januarj', 1904. He is a thorough newspaper 
man ; his paper is widely read and exerts a wholesome influence in Walden 
and vicinity. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., the Knights of Pythias, the 
American Mechanics and the Patriotic Sons of America. During his residence in 
the village of Montgomery he served a term as town collector. He married Miss 
Catherine Condon, of Walden, and three children have been born to them. His 
son, Francis Lester, assists him in the publication of the Herald. 

WINFIELD WRIGHT WINTER, who has for several years been identified 
with the business interests of Middletown, was born at Winterton, Sullivan 
County, N. Y., January 22, 1862. He was educated in the schools of that place 
and Walden Academy, after which he was for several years engaged in mercan- 
tile business in Winterton. In 1896 he established his present real estate and in- 
surance business in partnership with his brother, Clarence G., who was with him 
one year, and has since conducted the business alone. In 1901 he disposed of 
his business interests in Winterton and removed to Middletown. Mr. Winter is 
a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. & A. M., and Conco;rdia Council No. 
1077, R. A. M. He was joined in marriage with Flora A. Harding, of Winter- 
ton, and four children have been born to them, two of whom are living: Harry, 
bookkeeper for the N. Y. O. & W^ R. R. at Middletown, and Jay W., manager 
of the creamery at Winterton. 

Mr. Winter resides a portion of the year at Winterton and has held the office 
of postmaster of that place since 1891, when he received the appointment from 
John Wanamaker under the Harrison administration. 

THE WISNER FAMILY. — One of the early pioneers ni Orange County was 
Johannes Weasner, a native of Switzerland, who came to Long Island about the 
time that a special effort was being made to settle the Wawayanda Patent — Jo- 
hannes purchased land near Mount Eve, the deed being granted June 23, 1714, 
making him one of the first settlers of the county. His son, Hendrick Weasner 
settled near Goshen. 

Henry, the son of Hendrick, was born in 1720, and served in the New York 
Colonial Assembly, 1759-1769; was a member of the first Continental Congress, 
1774; a delegate to the New York Provincial Convention, 1775-1777, and a dele- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 989 

gate to the second Continental Congress, 1775-1777. He voted for the Declaration 
of Independence, but was called to New York before it was engrossed on parch- 
ment and was ready for signing. He took an active part in the manufacture of 
gunpowder, having mills in both Ulster and Orange Counties. He was also made 
a senator of the first legislature of Xcw York State in 1777, serving until 1782. 
He died in September, 1790, and was buried in the family burying ground near 
Phillipsburgh, in the present town of Wallkill. He had two sons, Henry, Jr., and 
Gabriel. His son, Ensign Gabriel Wisner, was killed in the battle of Minisink, 
1779. Henry G. Wisner, a prominent lawyer of Goshen, was a son of Ensign 
Gabriel Wisner and the ancestor of the Goshen branch of the family. 

John, the second son of Hendrick Weasner, was a captain in the French and 
Indian War, and served as a scout in 1757. He was also a captain in the Revolu- 
tionary War under Colonel Nicoll, of Goshen. His early home was at Mount 
Eve, but later he established Iiis home near Wickham's Pond, having received a 
grant of land, direct from the crown, consisting of more than a thousand acres, a 
portion of which included the present farm of Jesse Durland, which was the 
Wisner homestead for several generations. John Wisner was the ancestor of 
most of the Wisner families of Warwick. 

His second son, Henry Wisner 3rd (sometimes written Jr.), was born July 11, 
1742, and lived on the homestead farm. In the Revolutionary War he was made 
captain of the "Pond Company," under Colonel Hathorn, September 22, 1775, and 
later was made lieutenant-colonel, February 19, 1778. He was a member of the 
first State Assembly under the Constitution, serving from 1777-1778 and 1788-1789. 
He died May 29, 1812, and his remains now rest in the Warwick Cemetery by the 
side of his son, Jeffrey Wisner. 

Jeffrey Wisner was a man of remarkable energy and great force of character. 
He represented the township as supervisor during 1812-1813 and 1819-1823, and 
for several years served as justice of the peace. His sons, Gabriel, James, Richard 
and Jeffrey Amherst, have done much toward building up the interests of War- 
wick, and his grandson, Clinton W. Wisner, is well known throughout the town 
and county. 

CLINTON WHEELER WISNER was born at West Pittston, Pa., July 30, 
1856, and died in the Adirondacks August 21, 1904. He was the son of Jeffrey 
Amherst and Mary Wheeler Wisner. both members of old and prominent families 
of the town of Warwick, where the first twelve and last twenty years of Mr. 
Wisner's life were spent. 

Actively engaged for a time in mercantile business, and later in the management 
of large interests, he developed great talent for leadership and was to be found in 
the forefront of every progressive movement of his tinic. Endowed by nature 
with nobility of character, with an artistic lovf for beauty, educated in the school 
of life's activities by hard study and with the polish of extensive travel his was 
a versatile and attractive personality. 

A patriot, he ever listened tn tbi- c.ilK nf iiis fillows to siTvc thiin ;is ;i pniilio- 



990 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

spirited Christian citizen. For many years he was the president of his well- 
beloved Warwick village, which owes, in large measure, the present beauty of its 
homes, its churches, its Red Swan Inn, as well as its increasing popularity as a 
resort, to Mr. Wisner's interest and efforts. His favorite pastimes were shooting, 
sketching and driving. 

Mr. Wisner married Martha, daughter of the late Thomas Welling and Caroline 
Van Duzer, in October, 1879, S"d he was survived by his widow and his children, 
Mrs. Burton J. Berry, John Welling Wisner, Jeffrey Amherst Wisner, Jr., Thomas 
Welling Wisner, Clinton W. Wisner, Jr., and Gladys Wisner. Besides his family 
and friends he made wherever he had been the whole community of Warwick 
mourned the demise of its foremost citizen and endorsed the tribute of a dis- 
tinguished clergyman who had enjoyed the hospitality of Mr. Wisner's ideal home. 

HENRY WISNER, who is a resident of Sharon, Barber County, Kansas, is a 
member of an old and honored family of the Empire State. The parents of our 
subject were William Roe and Eliza (Miller) Wisner. William Roe Wisner was 
born March 21, 1799, and died November 19, 1886; his estimable wife was born 
April 2~, 1800, and died July 16, 1882. To this union were born ten children, John 
N., born February 15, 1820; David M., born November 2^, 1821, died August 5, 
1879 ; Henry, born August 20, 1824 ; Andrew D., born January 8, 1827, died May 
24, 1828 ; Albert A., born April 29, 1829, died May 29, 1832 ; James T., born October 
4, 183 1 ; Francis L., born December 21, 1832; Albert, born November 26, 183,5; An- 
drew H., born July 24, 1838, died June 19, 1854; Mary Ann, born May 21, 1841. 
The old Wisner homestead is located about one mile north of Bellvale, Orange 
County, and a picture of this historic house will be found on another page of this 
volume. It was built before the Revolutionary War by William Wisner, one of 
four sons of Captain John Wisner, Jr. William Wisner died in this house in 1803, 
and his son, William Roe Wisner, who succeeded to the ownership of the farm, 
and other property by inheritance, was born in this house and lived there continu- 
ously until his death at the age of eighty-seven years. Few men in Ora<>ige 
County were better known and none were more highly respected than Mr. Wisner. 
He was progressive and liberal-minded. His son, whose name heads this 
sketch, obtained his early education at the district school, two winters at the pri- 
vate school of the learned John K. Joline in Warwick, and at Chester Academy, 
of which William Bross was principal. He organized and taught a class in 
physiology, of which our subject was a member. This was probably the first 
teaching of physiology outside the medical profession. 

In the spring of 1844 he entered the university at East Hampton, Mass., where 
he remained imtil the fall of 1845, when he commenced lecturing on anatomy, 
physiology, hygiene and phrenology in the New England States. He went to Ohio 
in 1846, and for five years lectured in the west on his favorite subjects, introducing 
physiology in schools. His then new subjects, his quaint and original style of 
presenting them, together with his marvelous faculty of delineating human char- 
acter, drew immense audiences, crowning his efforts with great success, financially 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 991 

and othcTwisc, as tlu- prcs^ (jf tin.- day gave evidence. Quitting the business he had 
served, or which liad served liiin so well, he engaged in other pursuits with varied 
success. 

On March i, 1S75, he was united in marriage witii Miss Sarah E. (Rowe) 
Jackson, a graduate of Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago. In honor of her 
that college conferred on our sul)jecl the honorary degree of M.D. with two 
diplomas (having earned and received a diploma from the "Old School" while 
lecturing), lie declined to practice the healing art. No chikhen from this union. 

He became interested in real estate in Iowa and Chicago. He later removed to 
Kansas, engaged in cattle raising and finally settled on one of the ranches (5,000 
acres) in the State of Kansas, where he and his wife have lived twenty-five years 
in the enjoyment of health and prosperity. 

In politics he is a republican, though not an office-seeker or holder. In sentiment 
he is anti-war, liberal, progressive and broad-minded. 

By a former marriage he has two sons, Henry J., of Chicago, and Cliarles H., 
of Barber Cou'nty, Kansas. 



RALPH WISXER belongs to one of tlic oldest families in the town of War- 
wick. Tiie tirst settler in this part of Orange County was Johannes Weasner, and 
family, who settled on a tract of land near Mount Eve. There his dust lies min- 
gled with that of several generations of his descendants. Johannes Weasner was 
a soldier in the Siou.x Contingent, in the days of Queen Anne. John Weasner was 
third in descent from Johannes Weasner, being the son of Hcndrick Weasner. His 
brother Henry was a member of tiie Continental Congress, and xTittxl for the 
Declaration of Independence, and then came home to make gunpowder. This was 
the most necessary thing to do, for without gunpowder the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence on July 4, 1776, would have been of no effect. John Weasner was a cap- 
tain in Colonel Dekay's Regiment of Orange County men in. the French and Indian 
War of 1752. He and his son John were captains in Colonel Isaac Nichols's Regi- 
ment of Minute Men in 1776. The Wisncr family was foremost in resisting the 
encroachment of the British crown upon the rights of the people. John Weasner 
died in 1778, his son John died in 181 1, leaving a large family, among whom was 
another John, whose son, George T. Wisncr, was the father of the subject of this 
sketch. Ralph Wisner was born at Big Island, town of Goshen, March 2, 1859. 
Mr. Wisner is engaged in farming. He is a resident of Florida. 

He was married November 22, 1883, to Mary Greene, daughter of the late 
Henry Greene. They have one son, Roy Greene Wisner. The family arc all 
members of tlic Presbyterian Churcli, William Wisncr being assistant superinten- 
dent of the Sunday School. Mr. Wisner is identified with the best interests in the 
town. He has been a member of the school board for twenty- four years, and is 
a corresponding member of the V. M. C. A. b'or one term he was assessor of the 
town of Warwick. It was through Mr. Wisner's efforts that the beautiful play- 
ground of tlic village was procured. 



992 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

RICHARD WISNER was born on the homestead farm, in the town of War- 
wick, February 4, 1824, and died January 3, 1908. He conducted a farm in War- 
wick until 1883, when he purchased the beautiful residence near the village where 
he lived, retired until his death. He was one of the charter members of the 
First National Bank of Warwick and served continuously as one of its directors. 
He was trustee of the Warwick Savings Bank and for many years a director of the 
Lehigh and Hudson Railroad. He was also trustee of the Cemetery Association 
and at one time its treasurer. He was a member of the Sons of the Revolution,, 
and held membership in the Reformed Church of Warwick. Mr. Wisner was a 
member of one of the oldest families in Orange County and a descendant of the 
first permanent settler of what is now Warwick township. He was a son of Jef- 
frey and Elizabeth (Armstrong) Wisner, a man of quiet temperament, possessed 
of indefatigable energy, with a genial spirit and lofty ideals. He was twice mar- 
ried; his first wife was Euphelia, daughter of Thomas Welling, to whom he was 
married December 20, 1853. She died in 1881. He was again married in June, 

1883, to Sarah Van Duzer. His children, all by his first wife, are Charles E., 
Anne E. and Mary Euphelia, residing in Warwick. 

WILLIAM R. WISNER, one of the prominent and honored men of Orange 
County, was born March 21, 1799, on tlie homestead farm near Wisner, this county. 
He had always been identified in agricultural pursuits. He married Eliza Miller, 
March 16, 1819, and resided until his death, November ig, 1886, in the stone house 
now occupied by his great-grandchildren. He Avas a grandson of Captain John 
Wisner. He was an upright man, a good citizen and a prosperous farmer. He 
was a whig and afterward a republican. 

GRAHAM WITSCHIEF, attorney of Newburgh, was born in Port Jervis, 
N. Y., 1875. He is a son of Peter and Florence (Graham) Witschief. After grad- 
uating from the Port Jervis Academy in 1893, he attended the Albany Law School 
one year, and then read law two years in the office of Hon. O. P. Howell, former 
surrogate of Orange County. Mr. Witschief was admitted to the bar October 29, 
1896. Politically he is a republican, and served one term as president of the com- 
mon council of Newburgh. He is past master of Newburgh Lodge No. 309, F. 
and A. M. He married Miss Mary Farnum, of Port Jervis, N. Y. Mr. Witschief 
has conducted some of the most important litigations in Orange County, and is 
regarded as one of Newburgh's representative attorneys. 

ANDREW WOOD, station agent at Stony Ford, N. Y., was born at Cornwell, 
Canada, June 7, 1850. His parents were William and Ann (Jardine) Wood. An- 
drew attended the common school, after which he assisted his father on the farm. 
He was connected with the Grand Trunk Railroad as telegraph operator for a 
period, after which he removed to Ncav York State. In 1876 he served seven 
years at Willsboro, N. Y., with the D. & H. R. R., as station agent. August 4, 

1884, he removed to Stony Ford, Orange County, and became identified with the 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 995 

Kortriglil of Kortryk, Belgium, 1586. Casper Writer, with wife and five children 
removed to the present town of Mount Hope in 1784. Here he located and raised 
a family of eight children — three sons, Aaron, John Falter and Jasper, Jr., and five 
daughters. Eve, the wife died December 21, 1830; Casper's years overran the 
century mark. He died November 15, 1842. His sons Aaron and Jasper were life- 
long residents of Mount Hope, where their descendants are perpetuating the family 
name. 

BENJAMIN Fj. writer was born on the homestead farm in the town of 
Mount Hope, May 19, 1854. His parents were John F. and Phoebe (Rosencrants) 
Writer. His father died in 1892 and the mother is still living at the age of eighty 
years. Benjamin acquired his early education at the district school, after which 
he followed agricultural pursuits. He married Ella K. Denriis, of Sussex, N. J., 
November 8, 1882. Their four children are Coe, Frank, Elmo and Henry, who 
died at the age of four years. Frank is identified with tiie Borden -Company at 
Otisville as assistant foreman, and is a member of Hoffman Lodge No. 412, F. and 
A. M., of Middletown ; Elmo is connected with the Sanatorium at Otisville. The 
father is a member of Oti.sville Grange No. 1020. 

THEODORE WRITER, M.D., of Otisville, N. Y., was born in the town of 
Mount Hope, Orange County, July 17, 1837. He acquired his early education at 
the public schools and the Seward Institute of Florida, Orange County. He later 
entered the Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York, from which he gradu- 
ated in March, 1866. He remained for one year in New York in the practice of 
his profession, then returned to Otisville, where he has since practiced. Dr. 
Writer married Miss Helen A. Green, of Mount Hope, November 3, 1869. To this 
union was born one son. Dr. Writer is a republican and has served the town of 
Mount Hope as supervisor. He is a member of HofTnian Lodge No. 412. F. and 
A. M., of Middletown. • 

JAMES A. WYLIE, manager of Katteniian & Mitchell Co."s silk mill at Port 
Jervis, was born at Morristown, N. J. Soon after leaving school he began work 
in a silk mill, and has learned the business thoroughly under the tuition of his 
father, H. A. Wylic, who was manager of the Port Jervis mill until h\is death 
in 1902. 

This mill began operation in 1898, and is one of the important industries of Port 
Jervis. It gives employment to about one liundred skilled employees and produces 
over a quarter of a million yards of silk annually. An addition to the factory has 
recently been erected, making it possible to considerably enlarge the output. 

FRANK X. YAGEL, who conducts a prosperous plumbing, roofing and tinsmith 

establishment in the village of Highland Falls, N. Y.. was born in Germany in 

1872. He came to America in 1883, and after four years' schooling in this country 

t rved his apprenticeship with Iiis brothers, with whom he was later a partner for 



996 THE COUNTY OF ORANGE. 

eight years. Since 1899 he has been engaged in business for himself. Mr. Yagel 
has served as state and county tax collector and is now village trustee. Socially he 
is identified with the I. O. O. F. He married Miss Francis Wolklin and they are 
the parents of three children. 

ARTHUR YOUNGS was born in Kingston, Ulster County, N. Y., March 10, 
1872. His father, Addison Youngs, was a native of Kingston, and his mother, 
Harriet E. Nestell, of Newburgh, N. Y. Mr. Youngs's family can trace its an- 
cestry back to the early settlers of this country. His great-grandfather on both 
sides fought in the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. His great-grandfather 
on his mothqr's side was a member of the body guard to George Washington and 
a member of the Society of Cincinnati. He was also prominently identified with 
Masonic circles. When seventeen years of age he began working at brass 
finishing and the moulding trade under the late G. L. Monell ; afterward he was 
identified with the Newburgh Ice Machine and Engine Co. Later he was in charge of 
the motor mower department of the Coldwell Lawn Mower Co., of Newburgh. 
Mr. Youngs is now secretary and manager of the Newburgh Auto Shop, a com- 
pany organized in 1905, which sells, repairs and stores automobiles. Socially Mr. 
Youngs is identified with the . Newburgh Lodge No. 309, F. and A. M. ; Newburgh 
City Club, Business Men's Association, Newburgh Automobile Club, and the New- 
burgh Canoe and Boating Association. He is a member of the First Presbyterian 
Church. 

CHARLES C. YOUNG was born in Elizabeth, N. J., January 21, 187 1, and was 
instructed in both public and private schools. He took a course in a business col- 
lege and quickly became connected with the Singer Sewing Machine Co. at Eliza- 
bethport, N. J., starting as errand-boy and rising to assistant timekeeper, in the in- 
voice department. Afterward he became identified with the Rising Sun Brewing 
Co. at Elizabeth, N. J., and after acting as manager for the Orange Coun>ty 
Brewery for two years, purchased the business December i, 1893. He is recog- 
nized as an exceptionally capable business man. He was married September 8, 
1898, to Miss Wilhclmina Schauble, of Elizabeth, N. J., d?ughter of Philip and 
Marie Schauble. Their three children are Charles Paul, William Joseph and 
Marguerite Marie. Mr. Young is a member of Middletown's St. Joseph Church. 

OLR'ER YOUNG was born in the town of Mount Hope, Orange County, N. Y., 
October 7, 181 1. His family were of English extraction and among the early set- 
tlers of the State of Connecticut in the seventeenth century. At the age of sixteen 
he became a teacher and later repaired to ]\Iilford, Pa., where, under the guidance 
of Richard Eldred, Esq., and Melancthan Dimmick, he pursued the study of law, 
being admitted to the bar of Pike Coimty, Pa., in 1835, and soon after to that of 
New York State, where he settled in practice in the village of Port Jervis. 

By application and fidelity to the trusts confided to him a large and lucrative 
practice was soon gained. He speedily attained the reputation of a safe and jiidi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 997 

ious counselor. He was especially distinguished for his learning and skill in the 
quity branch of law. He was also a prohcicnt civil engineer and possessed an cx- 
ciided knowledge of the boundaries and titles of much of the land embraced in 
he western part of Orange County. 

Mr. Young was a firm advocate of anti-slavery principles long before any or- 
ganized political opposition was manifested thereto, and naturally affiliated with 
he republican party when it came into existence in 1856, pledged to resist the 
extension of slavery to the territories of the United States. Previous to that time 
lis vote was given to the candidates of the liberty and free soil parties, of which 
le was the sole supporter in the town of Deer Park, his vote being the only one 
n that town recorded for those candidates. 

Mr. Young was married January 19, 1848, in Port Jervis, to Mrs. Lydia Frances 
A'entworth, formerly Miss Sinclair, of Bartlett, N. H., and he had two sons, Frank 
Sinclair, who died in early life, and Charles Oliver. His death occurred October 3, 
1871. The loss sustained by the bar of Orange County was expressed in a series 
if resolutions, commemorative of his career and marked abilities. 

ROBKRT YOUNG, one of the most prominent farmers of Orange County, was 
torn in the town of Montgomery in r8i8, and died September 21, 1895. He was a 
son of Johnson and Margaret (Barkley) Young, and for many years was identified 
A'ith the affairs of his native town, holding the office of supervisor for eight con- 
secutive years, 1879 to 1S86, and again for one term in 1890. He was a candidate 
for the Assembly on two occasions, but the factions were against him. He was 
1 charter member of the Masonic Lodge of Montgomery and the last captain of a 
:ompany of state militia in this town under the old law. 

In 1890 Mr. Young traveled abroad, visiting the home of his ancestors in the 
N'orth of Ireland, who were Scotch-Irish. In June, 1862, he married Miss Emily 
A.rnott, of Coldenham. Six children were born to them, one of whom, David A., 
;onducts the homestead farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He was born in 
1863 and educated at the schools of Montgomerj-. He is a member of the Grange 
md numbered among the most progressive citizens of the town. 

FRANK J. ZIXT, son of Daniel and Mary (Lorentz) Zint, was born in High- 
land Falls, N. Y., in 1862. After finishing his schooling he engaged with his father 
in the shoe and grocery business, also handling coal. Politically Mr. Zint is a 
-taunch democrat and active in promoting the interest of that party. He is a 
nember of the Knights of Columbus, the C. B. L and a director in the First Na- 
:ional Bank of Highland Falls. In 1888 Mr. Zint was married to Miss Nellie N. 
Conway, of Newburgh and four children have been born to them — Daniel Zint, 
bvho die<l in 1892, was a native of Germany. He came to America when a young 
man and shortly after the Civil War established a boot and shoe store to which 
lie soon added a stock of groceries. This was the nucleus of his son's present ex- 
tensive business. 










V 



*"^ <."» o, 



•^oV 



"o V^ 






A, 




0' 






, V: 



Jy ° " ° * ^>, 






> «- ^-^i^^-. ^0 



"^' ^^ '"if, '^cTo' ^0- 



.-V 






.*-* 



« o 



' " ,.>^ 















\ '-yim' 







^. 



'o >■ 



O' 



■^ 

<:>. 



'^,*' <.^' 



.^H' 









•^Z. rs^ 



:i.18 



